Scriptures on Discipleship: Exploring Biblical Foundations for Becoming and Multiplying Disciples

The call to discipleship lies at the heart of Christianity, as Jesus commissioned His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). As believers, we are called to not only become disciples of Jesus but also to multiply His disciples. It is essential to explore key scriptures that highlight its principles, challenges, and rewards.

We will delve into the scriptures on discipleship, providing guidance for living a Christ-centered life. Moreover, we will examine the role of organizations like Global Disciples in training leaders. These leaders multiply disciples and share God’s love with least-reached communities worldwide.

Discover the transformative power of discipleship through the lens of scripture. Be inspired to pursue a deeper, more meaningful journey of faith as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus gives His followers the essential task of making disciples of all nations. This scripture is also known as the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). As His final command, this passage demonstrates the centrality of discipleship in the lives of believers and the Church’s mission. Jesus instructs His apostles to baptize new converts in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then he commands them, to teach them to follow His teachings and commandments. This scripture underscores the importance of spreading the Good News and multiplying disciples for Christ across the globe.

The Gospels also reveal the qualities and conduct expected of Jesus’ disciples. Jesus’ teachings help us understand the virtues we should embody and the commitments we must make as His followers:

– Love: Jesus teaches that the greatest commandments are to love God and love our neighbours as ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40). He also calls His disciples to love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34-35).

– Obedience: Jesus emphasizes the significance of obedience in a disciple’s life, saying, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15).

– Humility and Service: In Mark 10:42-45, Jesus illustrates that His disciples should be humble servants, following His example of selfless love and sacrifice.

– Bearing Fruit: A fruitful life is a mark of genuine discipleship. Jesus states that His followers must bear fruit, demonstrating their faith through good deeds and spiritual growth (John 15:1-8).

Following Jesus also involves significant personal sacrifice and commitment. Several scriptures emphasize the need for believers to introspect and weigh the costs of discipleship:

– Luke 14:25-33: Jesus challenges His followers to consider the cost of discipleship, emphasizing the importance of reflecting on one’s willingness to give up everything and follow Him wholeheartedly.

– Matthew 16:24-26: In this passage, Jesus declares that His followers must deny themselves, take up their crosses, and follow Him. He also highlights the value of gaining eternal life over worldly pursuits.

Scriptures on discipleship reveal its vital role in the ongoing spiritual growth, transformation, and maturity of believers:

– Hebrews 12:1-2: This passage encourages believers to persevere and run the race of faith with endurance, focusing their eyes on Jesus, their ultimate example of faithfulness and sacrifice.

– Philippians 3:12-14: In this Scripture, the apostle Paul exemplifies the pursuit of spiritual growth and humility, emphasizing our need to press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call.

The New Testament abounds with examples of mentorship, community, and accountability in discipleship, offering guidance for cultivating healthy, Christ-centered relationships:

– Timothy and Titus: Paul’s relationships with Timothy and Titus demonstrate the profound impact of mentorship and spiritual accountability. Paul nurtures and advises Timothy in leading the early Church while pursuing spiritual growth (1 Timothy 4:11-16) and instructs Titus on establishing church leadership and handling divisive issues (Titus 1:5-16).

– Proverbs 27:17: This proverb emphasizes the value of accountability and spiritual sharpening through relationships within the community of believers: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

By engaging in mentorship and accountability, believers support each other in their discipleship journey, fostering spiritual growth and unity.

Scriptures on discipleship provide powerful insights for Christians seeking to follow Jesus more faithfully and deepen their relationship with Him. By understanding the teachings, commitments, and qualities needed to live as a disciple, believers can experience a transformative journey of faith, spiritual growth, and selfless service to others. Through mentorship and accountability with fellow Christians, disciples can support each other in their spiritual journeys and unleash their God-given potential.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach 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 strategy of training and coaching, 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!