Discipleship Isn’t Just a Church Program — It’s a Way of Life
If you’ve spent any amount of time in church, you’ve probably heard the word “discipleship” tossed around. It shows up in sermon series, small group names, and mission statements. But if you were to stop someone and ask, “What does discipleship actually mean?” — you might get a blank stare or a vague answer.
So let’s talk about it.
Because understanding what discipleship is — and why it matters so much — could be the key to deeper spiritual growth, lasting faith, and a life that reflects Jesus far beyond Sunday mornings.
What Is Discipleship?
At its core, discipleship is the process of learning to follow Jesus — fully, faithfully, and fruitfully.
The word “disciple” simply means a learner or a student. In biblical times, a disciple would attach themselves to a teacher or rabbi and imitate not just their words, but their way of life. They didn’t just sit in a classroom; they walked with their teacher, listened, asked questions, watched, and applied what they learned.
Jesus modeled this when He called His first disciples — ordinary people like fishermen and tax collectors — to leave their nets and follow Him.
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” — Matthew 4:19
Discipleship, then, isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about choosing to follow Jesus, learning from Him, and becoming more like Him over time.
Why Is Discipleship Important?
- Jesus Commanded It
Before He ascended into heaven, Jesus gave a clear directive to His followers:
“Go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” — Matthew 28:19–20
This wasn’t a suggestion. It was a commission. Discipleship is central to the mission of the Church. It’s how faith is passed on, multiplied, and matured.
- It Transforms Lives
Discipleship isn’t about behavior modification — it’s about heart transformation. As we walk with Jesus and grow in His Word, our thoughts, attitudes, and actions begin to change. We become more patient, more forgiving, more generous, more Christ-like.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2
- It’s How We Grow Spiritually
Just like babies need nourishment and guidance to grow into healthy adults, believers need spiritual food and godly relationships to mature in their faith. Discipleship provides this structure.
“As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” — 1 Peter 2:2
- It Connects Us to Others
Discipleship isn’t a solo journey. It thrives in community. When we’re discipled or disciple others, we build relationships of accountability, encouragement, and spiritual support.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17
- It Equips Us to Disciple Others
True discipleship doesn’t stop with us — it flows through us. As we grow, we’re called to invest in others.
“And the things you have heard me say… entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” — 2 Timothy 2:2
What Does Discipleship Look Like?
Discipleship can happen in a variety of ways, but it always involves intentionality and relationship. Here are some common forms:
- One-on-One Mentoring — meeting regularly with a spiritually mature believer to pray, study Scripture, and process life.
- Small Groups — gathering with others to grow in community and study God’s Word together.
- Life-on-Life Relationships — inviting someone into your everyday life to observe, learn, and grow through shared experiences.
- Church Discipleship Classes or Programs — structured learning environments that walk people through the basics (and depth) of the faith.
The goal is always the same: to help each other follow Jesus more closely.
Being Discipled vs. Making Disciples
Discipleship is both personal and missional.
- Being discipled means placing yourself under godly leadership and being open to instruction, correction, and encouragement.
- Making disciples means walking alongside someone else in their spiritual journey — not as a perfect guide, but as a faithful companion.
Jesus spent three years investing deeply in twelve men. He taught crowds, yes — but He transformed the world through intentional, relational discipleship.
Common Misconceptions About Discipleship
- “I’m not mature enough to disciple anyone.”
If you’re walking with Jesus and willing to share what you’re learning, you’re ready. You don’t need to be perfect — just faithful. - “Discipleship is only for new believers.”
Every Christian — no matter how long they’ve known Jesus — needs discipleship. We’re always growing. - “It’s just another church program.”
Discipleship isn’t a box to check. It’s the heartbeat of spiritual formation.
How to Start Growing as a Disciple
If you want to take a step toward deeper discipleship, here are a few practical things you can do:
- Commit to a daily walk with God — prayer, Scripture, worship
- Seek a mentor or discipling relationship
- Join a Bible study or discipleship group
- Read books that challenge and grow your faith
- Ask God to show you someone you can invest in
Discipleship Is the Long Game
Discipleship doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a slow, steady process of becoming more like Jesus — day by day, step by step.
It’s walking closely with Him. It’s walking honestly with others. It’s allowing God to shape us, and letting Him use us to shape others.
This is how the Church grows. This is how hearts are healed. This is how the world is changed.
“Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” — 1 John 2:6
So let’s stop seeing discipleship as a buzzword or burden. Let’s see it as the invitation it truly is:
Come, follow Me.