Have you ever wondered how to grow deeper in your faith? I remember meeting J.R. Pittman, a campus minister in Grand Rapids, who showed me the power of Christian discipleship. It wasn’t just about learning; it was about living out God’s word and helping others do the same.
Discipleship is like a mentorship, much like Rocky and The Karate Kid. It’s about following Jesus, learning from Him, and guiding others on the same path. Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 calls us to make disciples, emphasizing a lifelong commitment to faith and community.
This journey isn’t just for a season—it’s a way of life. Are you ready to explore what it truly means to walk this path? Let’s dive in together.
Understanding Christian Discipleship
True faith blossoms when we invest in others, just as Jesus did. This is the heart of discipleship—a journey of growing together in God’s truth. It’s not just about personal growth but also about helping others deepen their relationship with Christ.
The Core Concept of Discipleship
Discipleship is often described as “life on life,” as seen in 1 Thessalonians 2:8. It’s about sharing your faith journey with others, just as Paul mentored Timothy. Paul’s guidance helped Timothy grow into a strong leader, showing how discipleship transforms character and faith.
This process involves three key elements: learning, doing, and teaching. First, we learn from God’s word through prayer and Bible study. Then, we apply these truths in our daily lives. Finally, we teach others, creating a cycle of growth and encouragement.
Why Discipleship Matters in Faith
Discipleship is essential because it helps us become like Christ. Through this process, we develop qualities like love, patience, and self-control, as outlined in 2 Peter 1:5-8. It’s not just about knowledge but about living out our faith in practical ways.
My own journey was shaped by J.R. Pittman, who mentored me for over 20 years. His guidance showed me the power of investing in others. Discipleship also prevents spiritual isolation, as Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us to encourage one another in faith.
When we commit to discipleship, we build a stronger church and a deeper relationship with God. It’s a way of life that brings hope and transformation to everyone involved.
What is Discipleship in Christianity?
Walking in faith means more than just attending church—it’s about actively following Christ. This is the essence of discipleship, a journey where we grow in God’s truth and help others do the same.
The Definition of Discipleship
A disciple is someone who believes in Jesus, learns from Him, and strives to live more like Him. This commitment involves four key marks: belief, learning, imitation, and multiplication. It’s not just about personal growth but also about sharing God’s word with others.
Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities reflect the transformation that discipleship brings into our lives.
How Discipleship Shapes Believers
Discipleship turns failures into teachable moments. For example, a campus ministry replicates the mentorship model by pairing experienced believers with new ones. This creates a cycle of growth and encouragement.
Passive church attendance is not enough. Active discipleship requires intentional effort to follow Christ’s teachings and invest in others. This way, we build a stronger faith and a deeper connection with God.
The Biblical Foundation of Discipleship
From the Old Testament to the New Testament, discipleship is woven into God’s plan. It’s a timeless practice that reflects His desire for us to grow in faith and lead others to Him. The Bible provides clear examples and teachings that guide us in this journey.
Examples of Discipleship in the Bible
In the Old Testament, we see patterns of mentorship that laid the groundwork for discipleship. Moses trained Joshua, preparing him to lead Israel (Exodus 33:11). Elijah mentored Elisha, passing on his prophetic calling (2 Kings 2:9-10). These relationships show how God uses faithful leaders to equip others.
In the New Testament, Paul’s relationship with Timothy stands out. Paul instructed Timothy to “imitate me as I imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). This mentorship model highlights the importance of living out faith and teaching others to do the same.
Jesus’ Teachings on Discipleship
Jesus’ ministry was centered on training His disciples. He chose the Twelve to be with Him, teaching them through His words and actions (Mark 3:14). His methods included parables, miracles, and personal guidance, showing us how to lead others effectively.
After His resurrection, Jesus gave the Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). This command remains the foundation of our mission today.
At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit empowered the disciples to spread the gospel (Acts 2). This event marked the beginning of the church’s mission to make disciples worldwide. Through Scripture, we see that discipleship is not just a calling but a way of life.
Applying Discipleship Principles in Daily Life
Living out your faith daily is more than a routine—it’s a commitment to grow and guide others. This journey involves intentional actions that reflect Christ’s teachings and strengthen your relationship with God. Let’s explore practical ways to make this a reality.
Practical Steps to Live as a Disciple
Start by incorporating these five daily practices into your life:
- Scripture Meditation: Spend time reflecting on God’s word to deepen your understanding.
- Prayer Journaling: Write down your prayers and track how God answers them.
- Service: Look for opportunities to serve others in your community.
- Accountability: Partner with a trusted friend to encourage and challenge each other.
- Teaching: Share what you’ve learned with others to multiply your impact.
Baptism plays a key role in this journey. As Jesus said in Matthew 28:19, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” This public commitment marks the beginning of a lifelong walk with Christ.
Building a Stronger Faith Through Discipleship
The Navigators’ Life-to-Life® model offers a powerful framework for growth. It involves eating, praying, and studying Scripture together with others. This approach fosters deep relationships and mutual encouragement.
Here are some tools to help you grow:
- Bridge Illustration: A simple way to explain the gospel to others.
- Growth in Christlikeness Checklist: Track your progress in developing Christlike qualities.
Begin your journey by finding one person to read Mark’s Gospel with. This simple step can lead to meaningful conversations and shared growth. Remember, discipleship is not just about learning—it’s about living out your faith and helping others do the same.
The Role of Mentorship in Discipleship
Mentorship is a cornerstone of faith, shaping lives through intentional relationships. It’s about walking alongside others, sharing wisdom, and modeling Christlike behavior. This process transforms both the mentor and the disciple, creating a cycle of growth and encouragement.
J.R. Pittman, a campus minister, exemplified this for over 20 years. His methods included asking thought-provoking questions and modeling godly behavior. These practices helped many, including myself, grow deeper in faith and understanding.
How Mentors Guide Disciples
A mentor plays four key roles: model, motivator, corrector, and equipper. As a model, they live out their faith authentically. As a motivator, they inspire others to pursue God’s truth. Correctors gently guide disciples back on track, while equippers provide tools for growth.
Mentorship is not transactional but transformational. It’s about building relationships that go beyond surface-level interactions. This approach fosters trust and encourages disciples to apply God’s word in their daily lives.
The Impact of Mentorship on Spiritual Growth
Mentorship has a profound impact on believers. It helps them navigate challenges, develop Christlike qualities, and deepen their relationship with God. For example, Paul’s mentorship of Timothy shaped him into a strong leader who impacted many lives.
However, unhealthy dynamics can arise. Warning signs include control, lack of accountability, or neglecting personal boundaries. To avoid these, ask potential mentors three questions: How do you prioritize God’s word in your life? What is your approach to accountability? How do you handle conflict?
When done well, mentorship strengthens faith and builds a community of believers committed to following Christ. It’s a powerful way to live out the call to make disciples and share God’s love with others.
Embracing the Journey of Discipleship
Embracing the journey of faith leads to transformative growth and deeper connections. Like branches connected to the vine in John 15:5, we thrive when rooted in Christ. This journey is not solitary; it’s about walking alongside others and sharing God’s truth.
Start small by discipling one person this month. Share your faith, study Scripture together, and encourage one another. At Grand Valley State University, I’ve seen how these simple steps can ignite lasting change.
To dive deeper, download the Discipleship 101 eBook. It’s a practical guide to help you grow and guide others. Remember, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live this way with purpose and joy.
May the Lord bless you and keep you; may His face shine upon you and give you peace (Numbers 6:24-26). Your journey matters, and your impact is eternal.
