Reasons Discipleship Should Be Part of Our Everyday Life

Some people approach their spiritual beliefs as a significant part of their lives.

They have sacred times, places, and actions dedicated to adhering to their beliefs. However, often these observances are done apart from what is done in their everyday life. Disciples of Christ are called, rather, to include their passion for God in daily life. More than that, they are called to include their beliefs in every aspect of their lives.

The term “Christians” did not originate from Jesus’ disciples in the early church but from others who identified followers of Christ as literally “little anointed ones” in Greek because they displayed Christ-like qualities.

Jesus identified Himself as the “Messiah” or the “Anointed One.” He actively preached about God’s kingdom and demonstrated God’s love and power everywhere He went. As the disciples walked in the mandate of the Lord to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19) they, in turn, also displayed God’s power through their daily travels and interactions.

The identification, then, was birthed out of the lifestyle that believers displayed. Discipleship is the foundation of that lifestyle. It’s at the core of who they are and their mission from the Lord.

Discipleship is not limited to the new believers. It is actually a continuous process that spans throughout the lifetime of a believer. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15), and we are expected to follow the example the Lord Jesus set for us. 

Therefore, Christian discipleship is not just for the new believers but for all Christians who have accepted Christ as their Savior and Lord. By becoming a disciple, we can be sure that believers won’t fall through the cracks, becoming complacent with their faith and without purpose. Living as a focused disciple helps a Christian to stay focused on the race set before them (Hebrews 12:1).

So let’s examine some of the reasons why Discipleship is so important:

As a disciple, it is important to learn sound doctrine. By knowing exactly what the Scriptures say and how they are fulfilled in the life of Christ, a believer can easily identify incorrect interpretations of the Bible and cling to the truth. In the book of Titus, Paul repeatedly instructs Titus to know and teach sound doctrine. He also urges Titus to appoint elders who are firm in the right doctrine (Titus 1:9).

We all make mistakes sometimes, especially when we’re just starting out, so it’s essential to have someone who is more thoroughly versed in the faith, showing the correct teachings of Christ.

Discipleship is an essential element of Christianity. By learning to be a disciple, a believer can work out where they fit in the Body of Christ.

The Bible encourages Christians to develop as individuals and learn what their natural talents and abilities are. However, the goal is not for disciples to remain inward-focused, but to work together with other believers as a part of the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12).

If a church only focuses on a Sunday message from the pulpit to teach the Gospel and does not implement ways for individuals to learn from experienced Christians, then the church becomes stagnant and irrelevant to a world that needs a Savior.

Discipleship is an essential part of the development of a Christian, beginning with the basics and introducing the new believer to deeper things (Hebrews 5:12-14). It’s one thing to hear the truth from the pastor, but it’s another thing entirely to have others holding you accountable, encouraging you to press on, and walking through life with you.

Furthermore, discipleship helps deepen and grow your faith in Christ as you follow the example
of those who have already walked through the things, you’re sure to face.

From the very beginning of the Bible, we can see that discipleship is key to the Christian faith (Genesis 1:28). Our calling is to make disciples who can emulate Him so that they can then make more disciples. We are supposed to be imitators and followers of Christ (Ephesians 5:1-2).

Imitating God isn’t about looking like Him, talking like Him, or imitating every aspect of His personality. Instead, it’s about living a life that reflects His character.

Contact us at Global Disciples to learn more about the Global Disciples Approach. We hope to partner with you in God’s mission soon.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective training and coaching strategy, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!