Did Someone Say Disciple-Making? -What’s That, And Why Is It So Important?

As believers, I feel like we’re constantly bombarded by all the things the church/Christian culture tells us we should be doing. I’m not saying that any of the things the church tells us to do are wrong, but sometimes, all the busyness of church activities can take our eyes off one of the most important things Jesus has called us to: Discipleship.

Yes, I just used that word. I know it can be intimidating, but don’t click off this article just yet! Let’s define once and for all what discipleship really is, and why it’s so important.

A Clear Definition of Discipleship:

Throughout the Bible, we see many examples of Christians discipling other Christians. For example, the prophet Elijah discipled Elisha, and the Apostle Paul discipled Timothy. Though each story is unique in its own way, there is a common theme.

“A disciple maker is a follower of Jesus helping others follow Jesus.” -Matt Chandler.

My favorite example of discipleship in the Bible is Jesus and his disciples. I just love the way each of the four gospels paints a beautiful picture of discipleship in the way that Jesus interacted with people.

Since we strive to follow in Jesus’ footsteps in every aspect of our lives, why wouldn’t we follow his example of discipleship as well?

Discipleship Isn’t Just a Bible Study:

Even though Jesus did have times where he sat down with his disciples to talk about God, they did life together, and Jesus taught them as opportunities arose.

The disciples went to parties with Jesus, they ate meals with Jesus, they spent time in prayer with Jesus, all of their time was spent with Jesus!

Even though our culture is very different today, the sacrificial life-sharing work of discipleship that Jesus demonstrated is still applicable to our lives today.

Discipleship is about doing life with someone. – it’s not just about doing a Bible study with someone. A Bible study is a part of discipleship, but not all of it.

Even though we cannot be with someone 24/7 like people who were discipling in Biblical times, we can disciple people we’re already around a lot. Maybe someone at our job, at our school, or on our sports team. We can begin to pour into someone by being intentional to point them back to Christ as opportunities arise.

But wait, why should care about discipleship? Don’t we have enough on our plates already?

The Great Commission:

Matthew 28 is famous for its final verses known as, “The Great Commission.” But do we actually understand what these verses are saying?

In Matt. 28: 19-20 Jesus says, “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.”

This is why discipleship is so important! Scripture has shown us through Jesus’ life that discipleship happens out of the overflow of our relationship with God. Jesus’ entire life revolved around discipleship. He had, “The Mind of a Disciple Maker,” and so should we.

Closing Words:

In upcoming articles, we’re going to be talking more about discipleship. We’re going to address common questions like, “How do I know if I’m ready to disciple someone? How can I begin to look for someone to disciple? How do I make time for discipleship even if I’m busy? How do I apply ‘Life on Life’ discipleship to everyday life?”

Until then, remember that discipleship is simply a follower of Jesus helping others follow Jesus by doing life with another believer.

Let’s follow in Jesus’ footsteps and go and make disciples!