Welcome to the Discipleship Program at Faith Church
At Faith Church, our journey towards spiritual growth and understanding is anchored in the transformative power of discipleship. We deeply believe that discipleship is not just a biblical principle, but a pivotal part of every believer's journey, enabling us to grow in our faith and emulate the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
As you embark on this spiritual voyage with us, expect a fulfilling experience that draws you closer to Christ, deepens your understanding of His word, and empowers you to live out His teachings. Let's together pursue the heart of Jesus and allow Him to mold us into His likeness.
In the Christian biblical context, discipleship refers to the process of following Jesus Christ and being transformed into His likeness. It encompasses more than just the initial act of becoming a Christian; it's about a lifetime journey of growing, learning, serving, and being shaped by and for the purposes of Jesus. The term "disciple" in the New Testament comes from the Greek word "mathetes" which means "learner" or "follower."
Getting Started in Discipleship
So that you have a better understanding about discipleship, here is more information for you. If you'd like to be discipled read the following and then click the button below to register so that a team member can connect with you about being discipled.
Here's a deeper look into discipleship based on the Bible:
1. Commitment to Follow Jesus: Jesus calls people to follow Him wholeheartedly. In Mark 8:34, Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
2. Ongoing Spiritual Growth: Discipleship involves a continuous process of spiritual growth. This includes prayer, studying God's Word, and actively seeking to live out the teachings of the Bible. In 2 Peter 3:18, believers are called to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
3. Mentoring and Being Mentored: Throughout the New Testament, there are examples of believers mentoring others. Paul, for instance, mentored Timothy and wrote to him in 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." This reflects the importance of passing on the faith to the next generation.
4. Community: Discipleship often takes place within the context of Christian community. The early church, as described in Acts 2:42-47, devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer. They supported and encouraged one another in their faith journeys.
5. Living Out the Faith: True discipleship isn't just about knowledge or personal growth; it's about putting faith into action. This can be seen in the way Jesus' disciples not only learned from Him but also were sent out to preach, heal, and serve (Matthew 10:1-42).
6. Making Disciples: One of the final commands Jesus gave to His disciples is known as the Great Commission. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus said, "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." Disciples are not only followers of Jesus; they are also tasked with leading others to Him.
7. Enduring Trials: Following Jesus doesn't guarantee an easy life. In fact, discipleship often involves trials and challenges. Jesus mentioned this in John 16:33, saying, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
In essence, discipleship in the biblical context is a transformative journey that involves following Jesus, growing spiritually, living out one's faith, and leading others to do the same. It's a relational process that deeply ties one to Christ, His teachings, and His mission in the world.
Next Steps
Click the button below and fill out the needed information. A discipleship team leader will connect with you to match you with someone for your discipleship journey.