Discipleship – A Lost Art?
Discipleship is one of those words we use a lot in church circles—often with the assumption that everyone knows what we mean. But ask ten people to define discipleship and you’ll likely get ten different answers. Why? Because our understanding of discipleship is shaped by at least three major influences: our personal experiences, our Christian traditions, and—hopefully—God’s Word.
At its most basic level, discipleship has a clear outcome: a disciple. And disciples, at heart, are learners. Throughout history, disciples have been people with a desire to learn, to grow, and to be shaped. But Christian discipleship is not an academic exercise. It’s not about collecting information or mastering religious ideas.
Discipleship engages the whole person—spirit, soul, and body. It is learning that leads to living, to transformation. The goal isn’t simply to know about the Christian faith or even to know about God, but to live out that faith daily in service to God and to others. True discipleship shows up in how we love, how we serve, and how we follow Jesus in real life.
Discipleship is also a process. We aren’t born as mature disciples; we are formed into them over time. And that process doesn’t happen by accident. Jesus Himself said we are to “make disciples,” which implies intentionality. There is a purpose, a direction, and a destination. Discipleship requires thought, prayer, and commitment.
To make a disciple, we need some sense of what we’re aiming for. This is where many people begin to diverge. Different models, different emphases, different priorities. What really matters? What are the marks of a disciple of Jesus? And practically speaking, how do we help someone grow into being a disciple?
Here’s the challenge: if we are unclear about the product, we will inevitably be confused about the process. If we haven’t defined what a disciple of Jesus looks like, we will struggle to fulfill the calling Christ gives to every believer—to make disciples (Matthew 28:19–20).
In my view, there are four essential elements of discipleship—four areas that must be nurtured if someone is to grow well to grow true as a follower of Jesus. These are character, spiritual life, skills, and theology. Alongside these elements, there are also stages of growth. Just as in natural life, disciples mature over time, moving through the stages of infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
This blog is dedicated to exploring both the elements and the stages of discipleship. My hope is that as you read, reflect, and apply what you learn—both for yourself and for those you disciple—your life will bear lasting fruit, fruit that remains (John 15:16).
Reflection Questions
How would you define discipleship in your own words? How has that definition been shaped by your experiences or church background?
Who is currently discipling you, intentionally helping you grow in your walk with Jesus?
Who are you investing in as a disciple-maker right now?
Which stage of discipleship do you most identify with—infancy, childhood, adolescence, or adulthood? What leads you to that conclusion?
Of the four elements of discipleship—character, spiritual life, skills, and theology—where do you feel strongest? Where do you sense the greatest need for growth?
A Closing Prayer
Father God,
Thank You for calling us not just to believe in Your existence, but to follow You as disciples of Jesus. Help us to grow in every area of our lives—our character, our spiritual walk, our understanding, and our ability to serve others. Give us clarity about what it means to be a disciple and courage to live it out intentionally. Teach us to be both faithful learners and faithful disciple-makers, so that our lives may bear fruit that lasts.
Amen.
Call to Action
This week, take some time to reflect honestly on your own discipleship journey. Consider where you are growing and where you may be stuck. Ask God to show you two intentional steps you can take— the first to deepen your own walk with Jesus, the second to invest more purposefully in someone else. Discipleship grows best when it is lived out on purpose.
