Biblical Discipleship

Biblical discipleship is a process where one mature believer (the discipler) makes an intentional and sacrificial investment into another believer (the disciple). This investment is one of truth, love, and life. This is a life-changing and life-enriching relationship for both men or women. And it has an eternal multiplying significance in God’s kingdom. Salvation is a free gift, but discipleship, according to Jesus, costs us something.

Luke 9:23 And he said to [them] all, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

John 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, [then] are ye my disciples indeed;

Jesus describes a disciple as something so much more than just a recipient of salvation. It is someone who has received grace and has decided to respond in complete submission to follow Christ in all that he calls us to in his word. A disciple is a learner as well as a follower. This is an intense and costly process at times, but it is such a valuable and meaningful one. This discipleship relationship looks like having a mentor who helps to put handles on the Bible in order to equip and empower applying it to our lives. This discipleship ministry is also what God has clearly laid out for the church to engage in.

Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

2 Timothy 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.