Christian Discipleship

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Christian discipleship involves growing in faith through consistent engagement with the Word of God, dedicating time to prayer, and actively participating in community and fellowship, as well as serving others. Essential steps for spiritual growth include a desire for deeper faith, praying for God's guidance, seeking a spiritual mentor, spending daily time in scripture, and actively practicing discipleship by mentoring others in return.

Discipleship begins with obedience to Jesus' commands, which is rooted in baptism and obedience. His call signifies the start of a new journey; it requires letting go of one’s old life and discovering new life within the family of God by following the will of the Father.

John 8:31-32 states, "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

Baptism is the first response of obedience to Jesus Christ as Lord. As stated in Acts 2:38, “Each of you must repent of your sins, turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ to show that you have received forgiveness for your sins.” While baptism does not save us, it is an important act of confession in front of our community and fellowship, demonstrating our commitment to Christ soon after we are saved. As Matthew 10:32 reminds us, “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.” Through baptism, we publicly declare our new life in Christ. This act of immersion into water symbolizes Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, as well as our own spiritual growth through death, burial, and resurrection into our new life in Him. Jesus entrusted the authority to baptize to the local church, so it is important to reach out to your local church to request baptism.

Discipleship leads us to deepen our understanding of God and to establish a solid spiritual foundation through reading scripture and praying. This journey involves baptism and obedience, as well as fostering community and fellowship with others. The Bible serves as our guide, and the Holy Spirit remains our best teacher. 

II Timothy 3:16 states, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." 

In John 15:26, we read, "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father..." Furthermore, in John 16:7-8, it continues, "I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." Through these teachings, we can experience profound spiritual growth.

Discipleship involves a deep desire for a closer relationship with God, and a deeper commitment to obeying His commandments emerges through practices like baptism and obedience. As we grow in community and fellowship, our spiritual growth is nurtured. James 4:8 reminds us, 'Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.'

Discipleship fosters community and fellowship, leading to the development of deeper godly friendships with other believers, which is essential for spiritual growth. Acts 2:42 states, 'And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.' Verse 44 continues, 'And all that believed were together, and had all things common,' highlighting the importance of unity in both baptism and obedience.

The final stage of discipleship involves making intentional choices to disciple others, fostering their spiritual growth and helping them mature in their faith, thus fulfilling Jesus' last command. This includes the importance of baptism and obedience as we teach others to observe all that He has commanded. As we engage in community and fellowship, we can encourage one another in this mission. Matthew 28:19 states, 'Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 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.'

Be part of a community and fellowship: Join a church or small group to engage with other believers and share in mutual support. Spend daily time in God's Word: Regularly read, study, and memorize scripture to deepen your understanding of God's truth. Pray consistently: Engage in regular prayer, seeking God's guidance and direction for your life and for others. Find a mentor and mentor others: Identify someone who can guide you in your faith journey, especially in areas like baptism and obedience, and be willing to mentor others who are newer in their faith. Live out your faith through service: 'Go and make disciples' by sharing the Gospel, serving others, and giving generously, as part of your spiritual growth.