Discipling others is a core part of the Great Commission. It involves teaching, guiding, and encouraging others in their faith journey. Today, we’ll reflect on how the Bible equips us to make disciples and help others grow closer to God.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Disciples
What Does The Bible Say About Discipling
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
This verse is known as the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples. It emphasizes the importance of making disciples of all nations, sharing the Gospel, and teaching them to obey God’s commands. It reminds us of the ongoing presence of Christ in our lives as we carry out the mission of making disciples.
As Christians, we are called to actively engage in discipling others, sharing the love and truth of Jesus, and helping them grow in their faith. This verse inspires us to go beyond our comfort zones, to be intentional in our efforts, and to rely on the presence of Christ as we fulfill this commission.
2 Timothy 2:2
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
In this verse, Paul instructs Timothy to pass on what he has learned to reliable people who can teach others. It highlights the importance of multiplication in the process of discipleship. As disciples of Christ, we are called not only to be discipled ourselves but also to disciple others, equipping them to pass on what they have learned to future generations.
This verse reminds us that discipleship is not meant to be a one-time event but a continuous cycle of passing on the teachings of Christ. It encourages us to invest in the lives of others, helping them grow in their faith and preparing them to disciple others, ensuring the spread of the Gospel.
Colossians 2:6-7
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
These verses remind us of the importance of remaining rooted in Christ and growing in our faith. As disciples of Jesus, our lives should reflect the transformation we experienced when we received Him. We are encouraged to walk in obedience, continuously growing in our understanding of God’s truth and overflowing with gratitude.
Discipleship involves not only sharing the Gospel but also nurturing and cultivating the faith of believers. It means helping them establish a strong foundation in Christ and encouraging them to live a life that honors Him. These verses serve as a reminder to remain steadfast in our faith and to help others do the same through discipleship.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This proverb highlights the importance of having fellow believers in our lives who can challenge, encourage, and strengthen us. In the context of discipleship, it emphasizes the value of relationships and the mutual edification that comes from walking with other believers.
Discipleship is not meant to be a solitary journey. We need the support and accountability of fellow disciples as we navigate the ups and downs of our faith. This verse reminds us of the impact that can be made when we come alongside others and help sharpen their faith, just as they sharpen ours.
1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts, revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
As disciples of Christ, we are called to not only live out our faith but also be ready to share the reason for our hope with those around us. This verse encourages us to be prepared to give a defense of our faith, while also demonstrating humility and respect in our interactions.
Being a disciple involves being a witness for Christ. We have the privilege and responsibility to share the hope we have found in Him with others. It reminds us to be intentional in our conversations, always ready to give a clear and gentle explanation of the Gospel and the transformation it brings.
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
This verse describes the early believers’ commitment to discipleship and community. It highlights the importance of studying God’s Word, gathering together, sharing meals, and praying together as essential components of discipleship.
Discipleship is not limited to individual growth but thrives in the context of community. It involves learning from trusted teachers, engaging in meaningful fellowship, and supporting one another through prayer. This verse reminds us of the power of communal discipleship in fostering spiritual growth and unity among believers.
1 Corinthians 11:1
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
In this verse, Paul encourages the Corinthian believers to imitate his example as he imitates Christ. It emphasizes the importance of modeling a Christ-like life to those we disciple, leading by example and allowing others to follow in our footsteps.
Discipleship involves more than just sharing knowledge; it requires embodying the teachings of Christ through our actions and attitudes. This verse challenges us to live in such a way that others can observe and emulate our faith, ultimately leading them closer to Jesus.
Proverbs 27:5-6
“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
These verses highlight the importance of accountability and correction within discipleship. It reminds us that genuine love sometimes requires challenging and confronting one another, even when it may be uncomfortable.
Being a disciple means being both someone who receives correction and someone who offers it in love. The growth and maturity of disciples are often facilitated through open and honest conversations that lead to personal and spiritual transformation.
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
In this verse, Paul instructs believers to bear one another’s burdens, emphasizing the importance of supporting and caring for each other as disciples of Christ. Discipleship involves walking alongside others in their struggles, providing comfort, encouragement, and practical help.
By actively participating in each other’s lives, we demonstrate the love of Christ and fulfill His command to love one another. This verse challenges us to be compassionate and selfless, willing to bear the burdens of others as we journey together in faith.
Ephesians 4:11-12
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
These verses highlight the role of leaders and teachers within the body of Christ. They are given to equip believers for their own works of service, promoting the growth and edification of the entire Church.
Discipleship involves learning from and being mentored by those who have been entrusted with leadership responsibilities. These leaders are instrumental in equipping disciples, providing guidance, and helping them discover and develop their God-given gifts and abilities. This verse reminds us of the importance of investing in strong leadership within the Church and being receptive to their teachings.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
These verses emphasize the significance of gathering together as believers, encouraging and challenging one another to love and good deeds. In discipleship, community plays a vital role, providing opportunities for support, accountability, and growth.
This verse reminds us of the relational aspect of discipleship, urging us to be intentional in our interactions with fellow disciples. It encourages us to prioritize regular fellowship, recognizing the importance of mutual encouragement and edification as we await the return of Christ.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
Paul encourages Timothy not to underestimate the impact young believers can have as disciples of Christ. It reminds us that regardless of age, our example and lifestyle can influence others in their faith journey.
As disciples, we are called to live in a way that others can see Christ through us. Our words, actions, love, faith, and purity should reflect the character of Jesus. This verse challenges us to be intentional in our conduct and to set a positive example for others to follow.
Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
These verses emphasize the importance of selflessness and humility in discipleship. It challenges us to prioritize the needs and interests of others above our own, reflecting the servant-hearted nature of Jesus.
Discipleship involves sacrificial love and putting others’ needs before our own. These verses remind us to cultivate a humble and servant-like attitude, seeking to serve and bless others as we walk alongside them in their faith journey.
James 1:22
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
This verse warns against the danger of being passive hearers of God’s Word without applying it to our lives. As disciples, we are called to not only learn from Scripture but to obey and live out its teachings.
Discipleship involves active engagement with God’s Word, allowing it to transform our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. This verse challenges us to be doers of the Word, demonstrating our commitment to following Jesus through our obedience.
John 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”
Jesus here gives His disciples a new commandment to love one another, demonstrating the transformative power of love. Our love for fellow believers is not only an essential aspect of discipleship but also a powerful witness to the world.
As disciples, our love for one another should mirror the sacrificial and unconditional love of Christ. This verse reminds us that our love for one another not only testifies to our relationship with Jesus but also attracts others to Him. It emphasizes the significance of love in discipleship and evangelism.
Romans 12:2
“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.”
Paul exhorts believers to renew their minds and reject the conformity of the world. It emphasizes the transformative nature of discipleship, which involves aligning our thoughts and actions with God’s will.
Discipleship requires intentionality and an active pursuit of transformation in our lives. This verse encourages us to seek renewal through the Holy Spirit, enabling us to discern and align ourselves with God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will.
John 15:8
“This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”
Jesus here teaches that bearing much fruit brings glory to God and identifies us as His disciples. Our lives should manifest the evidence of our faith through the spiritual fruit we bear, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Discipleship involves allowing the Holy Spirit to work in and through us, producing fruit that brings glory to God. This verse challenges us to cultivate a life of fruitfulness, reflecting the character of Christ and demonstrating our discipleship.
Psalm 1:1-2
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”
This psalm describes the blessedness of those who delight in and meditate on God’s Word. It emphasizes the importance of living a righteous and obedient life as disciples of Christ.
Discipleship involves aligning ourselves with God’s ways and rejecting the influences of the world. This verse encourages us to find our delight in the Word of God and to continually meditate on it, allowing it to shape our thoughts, actions, and character.
Luke 9:23
“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
In this verse, Jesus explains the cost of discipleship, calling His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Him. Discipleship involves surrendering all areas of our lives to Christ and actively pursuing His will.
This verse challenges us to prioritize our commitment to Jesus above our own desires and comforts. It reminds us that being a disciple requires selflessness, sacrifice, and a daily choice to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Romans 10:14-15
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'”
These verses emphasize the role of proclaiming the Gospel in making disciples. It reminds us that faith comes through hearing the message of salvation, and believers are called to share this message with others.
Discipleship involves actively engaging in evangelism, effectively communicating the Gospel message, and inviting others to believe in Jesus. This verse encourages us to be willing messengers, recognizing the significance of sharing the good news and the beauty of those who proclaim it.
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
This psalmist acknowledges the role of God’s Word as a guiding light in their life. It emphasizes the importance of Scripture in discipleship, providing direction, wisdom, and clarity.
Discipleship involves immersing ourselves in the Word of God, allowing it to illuminate our path and shape our decisions. This verse encourages us to rely on the truth and guidance found in Scripture as we navigate our journey as disciples of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Paul encourages believers to actively engage in building one another up and providing mutual encouragement. Discipleship thrives in an environment of support, affirmation, and edification.
As disciples, we have the opportunity to uplift and inspire fellow believers through our words and actions. This verse reminds us of the power of encouragement in discipleship and calls us to be intentional in fostering an atmosphere of growth and positivity.
Matthew 10:42
“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”
Jesus highlights the significance of even small acts of kindness and service in discipleship. It emphasizes the importance of compassionate action in caring for those who belong to Him.
Discipleship involves not only sharing knowledge but also demonstrating love through practical acts of service. This verse reminds us that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has eternal significance and will be rewarded by God.
1 John 4:7-8
“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”
These verses emphasize the importance of love in discipleship, asserting that love originates from God Himself. Love is both the evidence of our relationship with God and the foundation of authentic discipleship.
As disciples, we are called to love one another unconditionally and sacrificially. This verse challenges us to cultivate a deep understanding and experience of God’s love, allowing it to flow through us and impact the lives of others.