Exploring the Depths of Discipleship in Christ
- Kaylene George
- Apr 8
- 6 min read
When I first became a Christian, I was told that discipleship was an important next step in being a Christian. When I first looked up the word discipleship, it was simply defined as becoming just like Jesus in all aspects of your life. That is easy to understand. As a newly converted believer, I needed to change everything about me so that I exuded Jesus Christ and lived in line with the scriptures. The Bible is meant to be my road map every day of my life. It is what contains the rules of life based on the interactions God had with people in the past. Okay. I understand that. Thankfully, I was also taught that God has specific things that He wants me to do in my life. There is a definite path that God crafted for me before I was born. True discipleship comes from staying attuned to the voice of the Lord within. One of the first things I had to do as a new Christian was get out of the church I was in. They did not listen to the Holy Spirit and relied solely on their own reasonings in order to run the church. From the very get go, I wanted to be in a place that was led by the Holy Spirit. So, as soon as I could I left and started searching for a church that did. You would be surprised how hard it was to find one. I am so glad that I held on to the teachings of some great Spirit-filled people who were not ashamed of the Holy Ghost. They enjoyed obeying His voice and allowed Him to work through them how He pleased. This included speaking in tongues, interpretation, prophecy, visions, healings, miracles, and making life-altering decisions instantly. I needed to be in a place when all these things are present. I wanted to truly know God. My concern is that in the pursuit of discipleship, many Christians (especially those young in the faith) are seeking to follow the people around them instead of Christ. Fellowship with God is not just readding the Bible. There is a need for intimacy with the Holy Spirit. There are Christians who are convinced they are so great that they will try to convince you that you need them in order to be godly. That is not true at all. They will also try to emotionally manipulate you into think that they are right. Have a personal relationship with the voice of God. Follow that voice and you will be in good shape.
It is important for me to tell you that as you obey the voice of the Lord, He will tell you things that will stretch your faith. If you share these things with other people, they will not like what you said because it does not affirm what they think they already know. It is best for you to keep your conversations with the Lord to yourself. Let the way He moves in your life be all that needs to be said unless there comes a time to speak up. Remember that you are not under any obligation to agree with those around you when God has fantastic things planned for you. You know what the Lord has said, so stick to that.
What is Discipleship?
At its core, discipleship refers to the process of following Jesus Christ and learning from Him. It involves not only accepting Christ as Savior but also committing to a lifelong journey of growth and obedience. Discipleship is about becoming more like Christ in our thoughts, actions, and relationships.
Biblical Foundations of Discipleship
The concept of discipleship is deeply rooted in Scripture. Jesus Himself called His followers to be disciples, as seen in Matthew 4:19, where He says, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." This call is not merely an invitation; it is a command that requires a response.
The Great Commission
One of the most significant passages regarding discipleship is the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:19-20. Here, Jesus instructs His disciples to "go therefore and make disciples of all nations." This command emphasizes the importance of not only following Christ but also sharing the message of His love and salvation with others.
The Characteristics of a Disciple
Being a disciple of Christ involves several key characteristics:
Commitment: A disciple is committed to following Jesus wholeheartedly, prioritizing their relationship with Him above all else.
Learning: Disciples are lifelong learners, continually seeking to understand God's Word and apply it to their lives.
Obedience: True discipleship requires obedience to God's commands, even when it is challenging or countercultural.
Community: Discipleship is not meant to be done in isolation. Engaging with a community of believers provides support, accountability, and encouragement.
The Transformative Power of Discipleship
Discipleship has the potential to transform lives. When individuals commit to following Christ, they experience a radical change in their hearts and minds. This transformation is not just about personal growth; it also impacts relationships, communities, and the world.
Personal Transformation
As we grow in our relationship with Christ, we begin to reflect His character. This transformation can lead to:
Increased Love: A disciple learns to love others as Christ loves us, fostering compassion and kindness.
Greater Peace: Following Christ brings a sense of peace that transcends circumstances, allowing disciples to navigate life's challenges with grace.
Joy in Service: Disciples find joy in serving others, recognizing that their actions can reflect God's love and grace.
Impact on Relationships
Discipleship also influences how we interact with others. As we grow in our faith, we become more patient, forgiving, and understanding. This change can lead to healthier relationships with family, friends, and coworkers.
Community and Discipleship
Being part of a community of believers is essential for discipleship. Engaging in fellowship, Bible study, and service projects allows disciples to grow together and support one another in their faith journeys.
Practical Steps to Cultivate Discipleship
While the concept of discipleship may seem daunting, there are practical steps anyone can take to cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ.
1. Daily Prayer and Bible Study
Establishing a routine of prayer and Bible study is foundational for discipleship. Set aside time each day to connect with God through prayer and to read His Word. Consider using a devotional guide or joining a Bible study group for added structure and support.
2. Engage in Community
Find a local church or small group where you can connect with other believers. Engaging in community provides opportunities for fellowship, accountability, and growth. Participate in church activities, volunteer for service projects, and build relationships with others who share your faith.
3. Serve Others
Look for ways to serve those around you. Whether through volunteering at a local charity, helping a neighbor, or participating in mission trips, serving others is a practical expression of your faith and commitment to discipleship.
4. Share Your Faith
Discipleship involves sharing the message of Christ with others. Look for opportunities to share your testimony and the hope you have in Jesus. This could be through conversations with friends, family, or even social media.
5. Seek Mentorship
Consider finding a mentor who can guide you in your faith journey. A mentor can provide wisdom, encouragement, and accountability as you navigate the challenges of discipleship.
Overcoming Challenges in Discipleship
While the journey of discipleship is rewarding, it is not without challenges. Here are some common obstacles and how to overcome them:
1. Distractions
In our fast-paced world, distractions abound. To stay focused on your discipleship journey, set boundaries around your time. Limit distractions from technology and prioritize your relationship with God.
2. Doubt
Doubt is a natural part of faith. When you encounter doubts, seek answers through prayer, Scripture, and conversations with trusted mentors. Remember that faith is a journey, and it's okay to ask questions.
3. Fear of Rejection
Sharing your faith can be intimidating, especially if you fear rejection. Remember that you are not responsible for others' responses. Focus on being faithful in sharing your message, and trust God with the results.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Discipleship
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the process of discipleship. As believers, we are not left to navigate this journey alone. The Holy Spirit guides, teaches, and empowers us to live out our faith.
Guidance and Wisdom
The Holy Spirit provides wisdom and discernment as we seek to follow Christ. Through prayer and reflection, we can learn to listen to the Spirit's promptings and align our lives with God's will.
Empowerment for Service
The Holy Spirit equips us with spiritual gifts to serve others and build up the body of Christ. By recognizing and utilizing these gifts, we can contribute to the mission of the church and make a meaningful impact in our communities.
Conclusion
Discipleship is a lifelong journey that requires commitment, learning, and community. As we explore the depths of discipleship in Christ, we discover the transformative power it holds for our lives and the lives of those around us. By embracing the call to follow Jesus, we can experience personal growth, deeper relationships, and a greater impact on the world.
As you reflect on your own discipleship journey, consider taking practical steps to deepen your relationship with Christ. Engage in prayer, study, community, and service, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable. Embrace the call to be a disciple of Christ and watch as your life transforms in ways you never imagined.
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