Christian discipleship, as outlined in the Bible, refers to the process of following Jesus Christ, learning from His teachings, and progressively becoming more like Him in character and conduct. The term "disciple" itself implies a learner or a student, and in the context of Christianity, it denotes a committed follower of Jesus. The concept of discipleship is found throughout the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels and the writings of the apostles. Here are key aspects of Christian discipleship according to the Bible.
Call to Discipleship:
Jesus' call to discipleship is a recurring theme in the Gospels. In passages like Matthew 4:19 and Mark 1:17, Jesus calls individuals to follow Him, often using the invitation, "Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." This call implies a personal and ongoing relationship with Jesus.
Teaching and Learning:
Discipleship involves learning from the teachings of Jesus. The Gospels record His sermons, parables, and interactions with followers. Discipleship is a process of understanding and applying these teachings to one's life. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 emphasizes teaching and making disciples of all nations.
Imitating Christ:
Discipleship is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about imitating the character and actions of Jesus. Believers are called to reflect the love, humility, compassion, and obedience demonstrated by Christ in their own lives. Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV): "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
Relationship with the Teacher:
A key element of discipleship is the intimate relationship between the disciple and the Teacher, Jesus. In John 15:4-5, Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and branches to illustrate the need for a close, dependent relationship with Him for spiritual fruitfulness.
Counting the Cost:
Discipleship requires a willingness to prioritize one's relationship with Christ above all else. Jesus speaks about counting the cost of discipleship in Luke 14:25-33, emphasizing the need for commitment and sacrifice in following Him.
Transformation and Renewal:
Discipleship involves a process of spiritual transformation. Romans 12:2 urges believers not to conform to the patterns of the world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, resulting in a life that aligns with God's will. Romans 12:2 (NIV): "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
The Role of the Holy Spirit:
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the process of discipleship. The Spirit empowers believers, convicts them of sin, guides them into truth, and produces the fruit of righteousness in their lives (John 16:7-15; Galatians 5:22-23).
Making Disciples:
Part of the disciple's mission is to make more disciples. The Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20, includes the command to go and make disciples, baptizing them and teaching them to observe all that Jesus commanded. Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "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."
We aspire to be a loving and supportive church family, where members care for one another, bear one another's burdens, and encourage spiritual growth through fellowship, prayer, and service.
As part of the Great Commission we are active in preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every creature in all nations as the Lord give us the opportunity.
Our pastors and teachers engage in expository preaching, where they systematically teach through the Bible, verse by verse, in a way that emphasizes the importance of biblical texts and their historical and theological context.
