Starting your journey of faith can feel overwhelming. You might wonder how to grow closer to God or what it means to truly follow Jesus. This guide is here to help you take those first steps with confidence.
The Launch program offers a clear, 10-session framework designed to answer your questions and guide your walk with Christ. Each session focuses on practical truths from Scripture, helping you build a strong foundation in your faith.
Whether you’re just beginning or seeking to deepen your understanding, this guide simplifies complex concepts and encourages lifelong growth. Let’s take this step together, rooted in God’s love and truth.
What Is Discipleship for New Believers?
Embarking on a faith journey often raises many questions. You might wonder what it means to truly follow Jesus or how to grow closer to Him. Discipleship is about mentorship relationships that help you navigate these questions and deepen your faith.
“Truth transferred through relationship.”
This means learning from experienced leaders who guide you in understanding God’s word and applying it to your life. Programs like Launch focus on helping you experience God’s love and build a strong foundation.
Understanding the Basics
Discipleship isn’t just about casual belief. It’s a full commitment to Christ, as seen in John 1:12. This verse reminds us that those who receive Him become children of God. Through mentorship, you learn to live out this truth daily.
Justin Buzzard’s Bible study method is a great example. It helps you engage with Scripture in a way that transforms your life. This approach prevents spiritual stagnation and keeps your faith growing.
Why Discipleship Matters
Discipleship connects you with a community of believers. It strengthens your faith, gives you purpose, and helps you navigate the challenges of the world. Philippians 1:3-11 shows how prayer and God’s sovereignty work together to shape your journey.
Here are three key outcomes of discipleship:
- Stronger faith: You grow deeper in your relationship with Jesus.
- Purpose: You discover God’s plan for your life.
- Community ties: You build lasting connections with other believers.
Discipleship is more than a program—it’s a way of life that transforms you from the inside out.
Starting Your Journey with Jesus
Walking with Christ begins with a simple yet profound decision. It’s about opening your heart to His truth and taking steps to grow closer to Him. This journey is not just about belief—it’s about building a life rooted in His love and guidance.
Building a Relationship with Christ
To build a strong relationship with Jesus, start with four key steps: repent, believe, commit, and follow. John 6:44 reminds us that God draws us to Him, and our response is to take these steps in faith. Repentance means turning away from sin, while belief is trusting in His sacrifice for your salvation.
Commitment involves dedicating your life to Him, and following means walking in His ways daily. These steps lay the foundation for a deeper connection with Christ. As you grow, you’ll discover His purpose for your life and experience His presence in powerful ways.
The Role of Prayer in Discipleship
Prayer is a vital part of your journey. It’s not just about asking for things—it’s a two-way conversation with God. The ACTS model is a helpful way to structure your prayers: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. This approach keeps your prayers balanced and focused on God’s will.
Set aside time each day for prayer. Even 15 minutes can make a difference. Use Launch’s conversation exercises to practice listening for God’s voice. Journaling His responses to your requests can also deepen your understanding of His guidance.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
Remember, prayer is not a transactional exchange. It’s about building a relationship with God. Trust in His timing and seek His will above all else. As Wes Bowers emphasizes, let the Holy Spirit guide your prayers and decisions.
Growing in Faith Through the Bible
Studying Scripture helps you connect deeply with God’s truth. The Bible is more than a book—it’s a guide for life, offering clear answers to your questions. By engaging with its content, you’ll grow in faith and understanding.
One effective way to study the Bible is the Observation-Interpretation-Application (OIA) method. Start by observing what the text says, then interpret its meaning, and finally apply it to your life. For example, using Psalm 23, observe God’s care, interpret His role as your shepherd, and apply His guidance in your daily decisions.
How to Study Scripture Effectively
Lectio Divina is another powerful approach. It involves reading a passage slowly, meditating on it, praying over it, and contemplating its meaning. Try this with Philippians 1:3-11. Notice how Paul’s prayer reflects the Trinity’s work and apply it to your own prayer life.
Here are three questions to ask when applying Scripture:
- What must I believe about God’s truth?
- What must I do to live it out?
- What must I change in my life to align with it?
Applying God’s Word to Your Life
Using a physical Bible can enhance your study. Underline key verses and write notes in the margins. The ESV Study Bible is a great resource for historical context and deeper insights.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
Remember, avoid interpreting isolated verses without context. Always consider the surrounding passages and the Bible’s overall message. This ensures you grasp God’s truth accurately and apply it wisely.
The Importance of Christian Community
Being part of a Christian community can transform your faith journey. It provides support, encouragement, and accountability as you grow closer to God. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people helps you stay rooted in His truth.
Finding a Supportive Church
Choosing the right church is crucial for your spiritual growth. Look for a place that prioritizes Biblical teaching, demonstrates love, and actively reaches out to others. These qualities ensure a nurturing environment.
Here are five criteria to consider when selecting a church:
- Biblical teaching: The church should base its teachings on Scripture.
- Love: A welcoming and caring atmosphere is essential.
- Outreach: The church should be active in serving the community.
- Worship: Genuine and heartfelt worship strengthens your connection to God.
- Resources: Access to study materials and mentorship programs is valuable.
As Wes Bowers emphasizes, the GROWTH acronym—Gather, Reach, Offer, Worship, Teach, Heal—can guide your search for a church that aligns with your needs.
Engaging in Small Groups
Small groups offer a space for deeper connections and accountability. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to meet regularly to spur one another on in love and good deeds. These gatherings foster growth and trust.
Here are three icebreakers to help new members feel welcome:
- Share a fun fact about yourself.
- Describe a recent answered prayer.
- Discuss a favorite Bible verse and why it’s meaningful.
Programs like Launch focus on rebuilding trust in Christian communities. InterVarsity’s Neighborhood Group model is another excellent example of fostering meaningful relationships.
Remember, the church plays a vital role in sacraments and spiritual protection. It’s a place where you can experience God’s presence and grow in faith together.
Learning to Hear God’s Voice
Learning to recognize God’s guidance is a vital part of growing in faith. His voice often comes in subtle ways, but with practice, you can tune in to His direction. This process requires patience, attentiveness, and a heart open to His truth.
Recognizing God’s Guidance
God speaks to us in various ways. Here are four methods to confirm His guidance:
- Scripture: His word is the ultimate source of truth. Compare your thoughts with what the Bible says.
- Peace: God’s guidance often brings a sense of calm, even in uncertain situations.
- Counsel: Seek advice from trusted believers who align with God’s word.
- Circumstances: God can use events to confirm His direction in your life.
Remember Elijah’s experience in 1 Kings 19:12. God spoke in a “still small voice,” not in the loud or dramatic. Be attentive to His gentle whispers.
Watch for warning signs of non-divine guidance. If it contradicts Scripture, causes confusion, or leads to fear, it’s likely not from God.
Practical Tips for Prayer
Prayer is a powerful way to hear God’s voice. Start with a 5-minute silence exercise. Quiet your mind and focus on His presence. This helps you tune in to His guidance.
Use “2+ Prayer Cards” for focused intercession. Write down two prayer requests and spend time listening for His response. This practice deepens your understanding of His will.
Understand the difference between conviction and condemnation. Conviction leads to repentance and growth, while condemnation brings shame and guilt. God’s voice always points you toward hope and restoration.
Here’s a checklist for testing impressions against Biblical truth:
- Does it align with Scripture?
- Does it bring peace and clarity?
- Does it encourage growth and love?
“When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth.” – John 16:13
Trust in God’s timing and His work in your life. As you practice these steps, you’ll grow in confidence and clarity in hearing His voice.
Sharing Your Faith with Others
Sharing your faith can feel intimidating, but it’s a powerful way to impact others. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about being genuine and letting your story speak. When you share, you become part of God’s plan to reach those around you.
Bill Bright once defined witnessing as “simply sharing Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit and leaving the results to God.” This takes the pressure off and reminds you that God is in control. Your role is to be His hands and feet in the world.
How to Talk About Jesus
Start by sharing your personal testimony. Use the before-during-after Christ structure:
- Before: What was your life like before you knew Jesus?
- During: How did you come to faith?
- After: How has your life changed since?
This approach makes your story relatable and easy to follow. Role-playing evangelism scenarios can also help you feel more confident. Practice with a friend or mentor to refine your approach.
Here are five open-ended questions to spark spiritual conversations:
- What do you think about faith and spirituality?
- Have you ever had a life-changing experience?
- What gives you hope during tough times?
- How do you define purpose in life?
- What questions do you have about God?
These questions invite dialogue without pressure. They help you listen and understand the other person’s perspective.
Overcoming Fear in Evangelism
Fear is a common barrier to sharing your faith. But 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Trust that the Holy Spirit will guide your words and actions.
One practical tool is the Four Spiritual Laws. It’s a simple way to explain the gospel:
- God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.
- Sin separates us from God.
- Jesus is God’s only provision for our sin.
- We must individually receive Jesus as Savior and Lord.
Programs like the “Exponential Faith” training series can also equip you with strategies and confidence. Remember, sharing your faith is about planting seeds—God handles the growth.
Making Changes to Follow Jesus
Following Jesus often requires intentional changes in your daily life. These adjustments help you align your actions with His teachings and grow closer to Him. It’s a process that involves self-reflection, prayer, and practical steps.
Identifying Areas for Growth
Start by assessing where God is calling you to change. A self-assessment worksheet can help you identify areas like habits, relationships, and priorities. Gradual change is often more sustainable than immediate repentance, especially for new christians.
Here are three steps to guide your growth:
- Reflect: Pray for wisdom to see areas needing change.
- Plan: Set specific, achievable goals for each area.
- Act: Take small, consistent steps toward transformation.
Programs like Launch emphasize maintaining non-Christian friendships while growing in faith. This balance helps you stay connected to others while living out your beliefs.
Dealing with Challenges
Challenges are part of the journey. Temptation, addiction, and financial struggles can feel overwhelming. But 1 Corinthians 10:13 reminds us, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”
Here are practical ways to overcome challenges:
- Accountability: Find a trusted partner to support and encourage you.
- Recovery: Join programs like Celebrate Recovery for addiction support.
- Finances: Start with tithing as a first step toward honoring God with your resources.
Remember, change takes time. Be patient with yourself and trust in God’s timing. As Wes Bowers’ GROWTH acronym suggests, gather with others, reach out, and offer your gifts to build a stronger faith foundation.
“I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
By taking these steps, you’ll find a way to follow Jesus more closely and experience His transformative power in your life.
Discovering Your Purpose in Christ
Discovering your purpose in Christ is a journey filled with meaning and direction. God has a unique plan for your life, and understanding it brings clarity and fulfillment. Whether through your career, relationships, or daily tasks, aligning with His mission transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
One practical tool to uncover your purpose is the SHAPE assessment. It evaluates your Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences. This helps you identify how God has uniquely equipped you to serve Him and others.
Understanding God’s Plan for You
God’s plan often unfolds through your passions and talents. Justin Buzzard’s career example shows how vocational discernment can align with faith. Whether you’re in a traditional ministry or a bi-vocational role, every job can be a platform for His glory.
The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) reminds us to use what God has given us wisely. It’s not about the size of your gift but your faithfulness in using it. As you invest in His kingdom, you’ll see your purpose come alive.
Aligning Your Life with God’s Mission
Your daily tasks have eternal significance. Colossians 3:23 encourages us to work as unto the Lord, not for men. This mindset shifts your focus from mundane routines to meaningful contributions.
Here are five ideas for workplace evangelism:
- Show kindness and integrity in all interactions.
- Share your faith story when opportunities arise.
- Pray for colleagues and their needs.
- Invite coworkers to church or small groups.
- Live out your faith through actions, not just words.
Programs like “Plastic Jesus” can spark discussions about calling and purpose. By connecting your daily life to God’s mission, you’ll find deeper meaning in everything you do.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23
Remember, your purpose in Christ is not just about what you do but who you are in Him. As you walk in His truth, you’ll discover a life of impact and fulfillment.
Continuing Your Walk with Jesus
Growing in your faith is a lifelong journey filled with opportunities to deepen your connection with Christ. As you continue this walk, you’ll encounter challenges and triumphs that shape your relationship with Him. Here are some practical steps to help you stay rooted in His truth.
Look for signs of spiritual maturity, such as a growing love for Scripture, a heart for serving others, and a deeper prayer life. Plan an annual retreat to reflect and recharge, focusing on God’s word and His presence. Build a crisis toolkit with verses like Psalm 23 and Romans 8:28 to anchor you during tough times.
Transitioning from mentorship to leading others is a natural step in your journey. Consider joining a group or connecting with InterVarsity alumni networks for ongoing support. Choose a Bible reading plan that fits your life and helps you stay consistent in studying God’s word.
Remember, Jesus is always at the door, waiting for you to invite Him in. As Revelation 3:20 says, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” Keep your heart open to His guidance and trust in His perfect plan for your church and your life.
