Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said, “Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ.”
Discipleship is a basic element of Christianity, but it is often misunderstood or underestimated. A clear blueprint for discipleship that leads to spiritual growth, effective ministry and fulfillment of God’s purposes can be found in Jesus’ teachings and lifestyle.
Matthew 4:18-22 records Jesus’ invitation to Peter and Andrew who were fishermen, “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” This call to discipleship was not just a casual request but a divine summons to leave their old lives behind and embark on a transformative journey. In the same way, Jesus tells us that we ought to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Him (Matthew 16:24).
Characteristics of Discipleship:
Humility (Matthew 18:3-4): Disciples should be humble before God recognizing their need for His guidance and grace.
Obedience (John 14:15): Disciples follow God’s commands as an expression of their love for Him.
Fellowship (Acts 2:42-47): Disciples are drawn together into communal living, worshiping together and supporting one another.
Spiritual Growth (2 Peter 3:18): Disciples seek continual spiritual growth as they grow up in their faith.
Evangelism (Matthew 28:19-20): The mission of making new disciples becomes part of the disciple’s work leading both others towards salvation while expanding God’s kingdom on earth.
The Transformative Essence of Discipleship
Discipleship changes lives; it makes people become Christ-like.
This change:
Leads to salvation (Romans 10:9 – 10)
Develops spirituality (2 Corinthians 3:18),
Produces fruitfulness(John 15:8)
Fosters closeness with God (Psalm 119:105)
According to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), disciples have the responsibility of making disciples and teaching them all that God has commanded. A program or curriculum may not best describe what a disciple is but he is in an ongoing process of learning, growing and obeying.
Discipleship is a sacred privilege and responsibility. Through following the path of Jesus, as He called for, we become aids in His redemption to the world spreading His love and truth to all needy persons. May we accept discipleship that transforms us completely in God’s will by becoming those people God has called to be His disciples.
