What Is Discipleship?
Discipleship is at the heart of Christianity. It’s more than just attending church services or reading the Bible occasionally—it’s a lifelong journey of following Jesus, growing in faith, and helping others do the same.
When Jesus called His first disciples, He didn’t invite them into a passive belief system. He said, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19, ESV). This invitation was not just about learning but about transformation—about becoming more like Him and bringing others along on the journey.
In this article, we’ll explore biblical teachings on discipleship, its significance, and how to live it out practically in today’s world.
1. Discipleship Is a Command, Not an Option
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave what is now known as the Great Commission:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV)
Notice that Jesus didn’t say, “If you feel like it” or “If it’s convenient.” Discipleship is not optional—it’s a command. Every believer is called to be a disciple and to make disciples. It’s not just the job of pastors and missionaries; it’s the responsibility of every Christian.
2. The Cost of Discipleship
Jesus never promised that following Him would be easy. In fact, He made it clear that discipleship comes with a cost:
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24, ESV)
True discipleship means surrendering our desires, comforts, and even relationships when necessary. It means putting Jesus first, no matter the cost. In Luke 14:26-27, Jesus uses strong language to emphasize that nothing—not even family—should take precedence over Him.
Many people admire Jesus but hesitate when it comes to total commitment. The rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16-22 is a perfect example. He wanted eternal life but wasn’t willing to give up his wealth. Discipleship requires sacrifice, but the reward is far greater than the cost.
3. Jesus’ Model for Discipleship
Jesus didn’t just preach sermons; He lived life alongside His disciples. He walked with them, ate with them, prayed with them, and corrected them. His model for discipleship was deeply relational.
Here are three key aspects of how Jesus discipled others:
A. Teaching the Truth
Jesus taught with authority (Matthew 7:29). He used parables, scripture, and real-life situations to impart wisdom. As disciples, we must be deeply rooted in God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17) so we can teach others accurately.
B. Leading by Example
Jesus didn’t just tell His disciples to love others—He demonstrated it by washing their feet (John 13:12-17) and ultimately laying down His life (John 15:13). A true disciple leads by example, living out the faith in daily actions.
C. Investing in Others
Jesus didn’t disciple large crowds in the same way He discipled His twelve. He invested deeply in a small group, and even within the twelve, He had an inner circle (Peter, James, and John). Effective discipleship happens in close relationships, where accountability and growth can flourish.
4. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Discipleship
Discipleship is not just about human effort—it requires the power of the Holy Spirit.
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, ESV)
Without the Holy Spirit, discipleship becomes a struggle of willpower. The Spirit empowers us to understand Scripture (John 14:26), convict us of sin (John 16:8), and transform our hearts to bear the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). If we are not relying on the Holy Spirit, we are not making true disciples of Christ.
5. Practical Steps for Making Disciples
How can we actively participate in discipleship? Here are some practical steps:
A. Be a Disciple First
Before making disciples, we must be committed disciples ourselves. This means consistent prayer, Bible study, and obedience to God.
B. Build Relationships
Discipleship isn’t a program, it’s a lifestyle. It happens over coffee, during phone calls, through shared experiences. Intentional relationships create space for mentorship and accountability.
C. Teach and Share the Gospel
Share what you learn. Teach new believers the basics of faith, such as how to pray, read the Bible, and trust in God’s promises.
D. Model a Christ-Centered Life
Let your life reflect Jesus in how you speak, work, and serve others. People learn more from what we do than what we say.
E. Encourage and Challenge
Help others grow spiritually by encouraging them and holding them accountable. Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Healthy discipleship includes both support and challenge.
6. The Reward of Discipleship
Though discipleship is challenging, the rewards are eternal. When we invest in others spiritually, we create a ripple effect that reaches generations.
Paul wrote to Timothy:
“What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” (2 Timothy 2:2, ESV)
Discipleship multiplies. When we pour into others, they pour into others, and the cycle continues. The ultimate reward? Hearing Jesus say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23, ESV).
Answering the Call
Discipleship is not reserved for pastors or spiritual leaders—it is the call of every believer. It requires commitment, patience, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. The world is in desperate need of true disciples who will follow Jesus wholeheartedly and lead others to do the same.
Are you willing to take up the call?
Start today by deepening your walk with Christ and intentionally investing in others. Discipleship is not just about making believers—it’s about making lifelong followers of Jesus.
“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19, ESV)
Are you looking for a mentor, or do you feel called to disciple others? Begin by praying for God to guide you to the right people. Join a discipleship group, start a Bible study, or simply begin walking alongside someone in their faith journey. The kingdom of God grows one disciple at a time, start now.
Daraja la Amani 