What Is Discipleship? A Student's Guide
Explore what it truly means to be a disciple and to make disciples among your peers.
What Is Discipleship? A Student's Guide
Defining Discipleship
A disciple is a learner, a follower, a student. In Christian terms, a disciple is someone who has committed to following Jesus and is growing in their faith. Discipleship is the lifelong process of becoming more like Christ through learning, practice, and community.
Jesus' Example
Jesus' primary teaching method wasn't large lectures (though He did those). It was discipleship—investing deeply in twelve people, teaching them, modeling faith, and sending them out to continue the work. His last command was to "make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19).
What Discipleship Includes
Learning - Studying Scripture, understanding Jesus' teachings, learning biblical truths. A disciple is always growing in knowledge.
Obedience - Actually living out what you learn. Discipleship isn't just head knowledge; it's putting faith into practice.
Community - Walking together with other believers. We don't grow spiritually alone. We need community for encouragement, accountability, and growth.
Service - Using your gifts to serve others. Disciples follow Jesus' example of humble service.
Sharing Faith - Making disciples is part of being a disciple. You receive and then you give.
Stages of Discipleship
Stage 1: New Disciple**
You've just committed to following Jesus. Focus on understanding the basics of faith, finding a faith community, and establishing spiritual disciplines (prayer, Bible reading). Find a mentor who can help you get grounded.
Stage 2: Growing Disciple**
You're developing consistency in your faith practices. You're learning to apply Scripture to your life. You're participating actively in community. You're beginning to help newer believers.
Stage 3: Mature Disciple**
Your faith has become central to your identity and decisions. You're regularly investing in others' spiritual growth. You're developing wisdom that helps others. You're discovering your calling and purpose.
Stage 4: Multiplying Disciple**
You're intentionally developing leaders who will develop other leaders. You're thinking strategically about how to multiply impact. You're mentoring multiple people in deeper ways.
Barriers to Discipleship
Spiritual Laziness** - It's easier to coast than to actively grow. Discipleship requires intention and effort.
Isolation** - Trying to grow alone. We need community for accountability and encouragement.
Worldly Pressure** - Campus culture often contradicts Christian values. It's easy to compromise when everyone around you is living differently.
Shame from the Past** - Former mistakes or struggles can make you feel unworthy. Remember: discipleship is for sinners being transformed by grace.
How to Grow as a Disciple
1. Commit to Regular Disciplines**
- Prayer - Talk to God daily
- Bible Study - Read and understand Scripture
- Worship - Express your devotion to God
- Service - Use your gifts to help others
- Community - Gather regularly with believers
2. Find Mentors**
Seek out people further along in their faith journey. Learn from them. Ask them to mentor you. Their guidance will accelerate your growth.
3. Join a Small Group**
A small group of 5-15 people who meet regularly for Bible study, prayer, and accountability is one of the most powerful vehicles for spiritual growth.
4. Practice Obedience**
Don't just learn about Jesus' teachings; live them out. When you feel prompted to forgive, to serve, to speak truth, to love—do it. Obedience deepens faith.
5. Serve Others**
Look for opportunities to serve your campus community and church. Serving develops humility and compassion and helps you grow.
How to Make Disciples**
As you grow as a disciple, you'll naturally begin making disciples. Here's how:
1. Build Relationships** - Know people. Invite them to events, meals, and community. Let them know you care about them.
2. Share Your Story** - Tell how you came to faith and how God has worked in your life. Your authentic story is powerful.
3. Invite Them to Investigate Jesus** - Don't pressure. Invite them to a Bible study, church service, or discussion about Jesus.
4. Support Their Commitment** - If they commit to following Jesus, help them get started. Mentor them. Connect them to community.
5. Invest in Their Growth** - Meet regularly. Teach them Scripture. Answer their questions. Encourage their disciplines.
6. Challenge Them to Make Disciples** - After they've grown, help them see that they too can invest in others.
The Multiplying Impact**
Think about this: If you disciple one person per year, and they do the same, and those two do the same, by year 10 you've multiplied discipleship exponentially. The most impactful thing you can do on campus is invest in a few people's spiritual growth.
Conclusion**
Discipleship is the heart of the Christian life and the Christian mission. Whether you're new in your faith or mature, there's always more to learn and always someone you can help. Start where you are. Find a mentor. Invest in your own growth. Help others grow. Together, you'll change your campus and multiply Jesus' kingdom.
