Essentials Of Discipleship: 10 Powerful Essentials Of Discipleship

Have you been wondering about the essentials of discipleship when it comes to your walk with Christ?

Well, you are in the right place. In this article, we are going to do a deep dive into the top 10 Essentials of true discipleship.

Let’s dive in.

The Importance of Discipleship in Modern Christianity

In our age of instant gratification and constant distractions, the tenets of discipleship remind us of our core values and purpose.

With the noise of social media, the hustle and bustle of daily life, and the myriad of challenges young adults face, it’s easy to lose sight of our spiritual path.

The Apostle Paul, in Romans 12:2, urges us not to conform to the patterns of this world but be transformed by the renewal of our mind.

This renewal is what discipleship aims to achieve.

The essence of discipleship is not just about personal growth; it’s about growing collectively as a community.

It’s about sharing experiences, learning from each other, and growing stronger in faith together.

As highlighted in Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Essentials of Discipleship #1: Cultivating a Rich Spiritual Bond

At the heart of discipleship is the profound bond one forms with God.

This connection goes beyond merely reading scriptures; it’s a deep dive into God’s Word, grasping its profound teachings, and integrating them into one’s life.

As Jesus emphasizes in Matthew 28:19-20, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”

Such a mandate propels us to deepen our faith, moving beyond mere hearers to become fervent practitioners of His teachings.

Essentials of Discipleship #2: Fostering Leadership Traits

For the zealous young generation, particularly those envisioning impactful roles like youth pastors or missionaries, discipleship is the underpinning.

True discipleship transcends the act of reading scriptures to actualizing them in everyday life. It incubates vital attributes such as patience, proactive leadership, and unwavering perseverance.

As delineated by Peter in 1 Peter 5:2-3, he exhorts the elders to “tend to God’s flock… not domineering over those in your charge but being examples to the flock.”

To lead, whether it’s a small group or a vast congregation, one must personify the teachings of Christ.

Essentials of Discipleship #3: Embracing the Core Tenets

The discipleship journey is a transformative expedition, illuminated by regular engagements with the Bible.

As the psalmist David aptly puts it in Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Beyond scripture studies, active participation in volunteering and community outreach inculcates humility and altruism, mirroring Jesus’s exemplary life.

Such faithful endeavors, coupled with a heart brimming with devotion, align one closer to Christ’s teachings.

Essentials of Discipleship #4: Defining Characteristics of a Disciple

What does the term ‘disciple’ evoke in your mind? A regular churchgoer?

Perhaps someone proficient in quoting biblical verses? While these may be facets of a disciple’s identity, they don’t encapsulate its entirety.

A genuine disciple is distinguished not merely by their spoken words but their lived experiences.

Their existence is a living testimony to Christ’s teachings. This is manifested in their interactions, choices, and the principles they champion.

Being a disciple transcends regular church visits or scripture readings; it’s about assimilating these teachings and allowing them to sculpt one’s essence.

Living a life reminiscent of Christ’s teachings isn’t about rigid adherence to rules.

It’s about exuding love in the face of adversity, extending compassion even when it’s not reciprocated, and prioritizing others, akin to Christ’s selfless nature.

Such a disciple, adorned with these virtues, becomes a luminous beacon in an oftentimes murky world.

Their radiant life, which mirrors Christ’s love and grace, not only attracts but also inspires others, stirring inquisitiveness and eventually shepherding them to the righteous path.

To sum it up, while many might don the mantle of ‘disciple’, it’s the life one leads, resonating with Christ’s teachings, that genuinely differentiates them.

Essentials of Discipleship #5: Unwavering Commitment to Prayer

Prayer is the lifeline of a disciple.

It’s the intimate conversation between the believer and God, offering gratitude, seeking guidance, or simply basking in His presence.

As Paul advises in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “pray without ceasing.”

A disciple recognizes the power and peace that emanates from consistent prayer, fortifying their faith and trust in God’s plan.

Essential of Discipleship #6: Community Engagement and Fellowship

Being a disciple isn’t a solitary endeavor.

Actively participating in a community of believers provides a support system, encouraging mutual growth.

The early church, as depicted in Acts 2:42, was steadfast in “the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

Through fellowship, disciples can share experiences, learn from each other, and strengthen their collective faith.

Essentials of Discipleship #7: Continuous Spiritual Learning

A disciple’s journey is one of perpetual learning and growth.

Whether it’s diving deeper into the scriptures, attending spiritual workshops, or engaging in theological discussions, a disciple constantly seeks to expand their understanding.

As stated in Proverbs 1:5, “let the wise listen and add to their learning,” signifying the never-ending quest for spiritual knowledge.

Essentials of Discipleship #8: Embodying Christ-like Service

Jesus set the ultimate example of service, washing the feet of His disciples in John 13:14-15.

He said, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.

I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

A disciple embraces this spirit of servitude, seeking opportunities to serve others, be it within their community or beyond.

Essentials of Discipleship #9: Evangelism

One of the core missions of a disciple is to share the Gospel. With the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 as their mandate, disciples are called to “go and make disciples of all nations.”

This doesn’t necessarily mean global evangelism for everyone; it could be as simple as sharing one’s testimony with a friend or neighbor.

Essentials of Discipleship #10: Demonstrating Unconditional Love

Love is the essence of God’s nature and the foundation of His commandments.

A disciple strives to mirror this love in their interactions, devoid of judgment or conditions.

As highlighted in 1 Corinthians 13:2, “If I… have not love, I am nothing.”

A disciple’s actions, driven by love, reflect the heart of Christ, drawing others closer to Him.

In the discipleship journey, these essentials act as guiding pillars, steering believers closer to Christ’s heart, molding them to become His hands and feet in the world

The Challenges Faced by Disciples

Every journey, especially one as significant as discipleship, is bound to have its hurdles.

While the end goal of becoming closer to God and leading a life reflective of Christ’s teachings is profoundly rewarding, the path is often strewn with challenges that test one’s faith, patience, and resilience.

One of the primary challenges faced by young aspiring disciples is balancing their numerous commitments.

Academics, especially for students in the age group of 18-22, can be demanding.

Coupling that with part-time work to support oneself or one’s education adds another layer of responsibility.

And when you factor in the time and energy dedicated to ministry work, the scales often feel tipped against the disciple.

As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 12:10, “For when I am weak, then I am strong,” emphasizing that challenges and weaknesses can lead to greater spiritual strength.

Financial constraints further amplify these challenges.

With a limited budget, often resulting from meager earnings from part-time jobs or relying on family support, pursuing additional courses in theology or even buying essential religious books can feel like a luxury.

But the Bible reminds us in Philippians 4:19 that “God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

This assures disciples that their genuine needs for spiritual growth will be met, even in tight financial situations.

But it’s not all gloom and doom. With every challenge comes an opportunity for growth.

With passion for Christ’s teachings, discipline in one’s practices, and the unwavering support of a like-minded community, these challenges can be overcome.

They cease to be mere obstacles and transform into stepping stones, refining and strengthening one’s faith. As James 1:2-4 beautifully puts it, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

It’s a reminder that these trials, while tough, mold disciples into stronger, more steadfast believers.

If you are enjoying this post, you will love our ultimate guide to Discipleship.

Seeking Guidance in Your Spiritual Walk

Every blossoming disciple can greatly benefit from having a seasoned guide by their side. In the spiritual realm, the role of a mentor is indispensable.

Such a person, having traversed the path before, imparts wisdom, shares their personal experiences, and provides both emotional and spiritual sustenance.

They serve as a lighthouse, ensuring that the disciple doesn’t veer off course during stormy seasons.

Selecting an apt spiritual guide is a pivotal phase in one’s discipleship journey.

While many might possess the desire to guide, it’s the discernible results of their spiritual walk that truly earmark them for this critical position.

Evaluating Their Spiritual Fruit: In the words of Jesus, “By their fruit, you will recognize them.” – Matthew 7:20 (NIV). The term ‘fruit’ here alludes to the tangible manifestations of their relationship with God. This encompasses their character, their day-to-day living, interpersonal relationships, and the positive influence they wield on those they encounter. A potential mentor should manifest the fruits of the Spirit, as delineated in Galatians: attributes such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Criteria for Leadership Positions: The Bible furnishes explicit guidelines for those assuming leadership roles, be it deacons, elders, or pastors. A paramount criterion is the orderliness of their household, signifying their proficiency to shepherd a broader community. “He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect.” – 1 Timothy 3:4 (NIV). Their familial life often mirrors their leadership prowess and spiritual maturity.

Synergy with Your Spiritual Direction: It’s pivotal to ally with a mentor who is flourishing in the particular domain you feel beckoned to. For example, if your aspirations align with digital ministry, then coupling with a mentor proficient in this sphere would be propitious. If digital evangelism, ministry marketing, or online discipleship resonate with you, the Clickmill Digital Discipleship Training School presents a holistic program. Helmed by seasoned Christian leaders who are thriving in the digital space, it avails an avenue to glean from those already effecting a significant online impact.

In essence, pinpointing the right mentor goes beyond their scholastic knowledge or vast experience; it’s about discerning the palpable spiritual fruit in their lives.

A mentor who reflects the attributes and trajectory you yearn for can immensely enrich your spiritual voyage, bestowing guidance, sagacity, and direction as you chart the course of discipleship.

Overcoming Financial Barriers in Discipleship Programs

Financial limitations can sometimes cast a shadow over one’s spiritual odyssey.

Yet, a plethora of platforms proffer scholarships and course discounts, ensuring that monetary constraints don’t impede your spiritual growth.

The solution resides in proactive seeking, meticulous research, and leveraging the resources at hand.

A Modern Approach to Discipleship Education:

In our technologically-driven epoch, discipleship methodologies have been revamped to cater to contemporary believers.

Although the cardinal teachings remain sacrosanct, the delivery mechanisms and methods have undergone a metamorphosis, making them more palatable and pertinent to the present generation.

Digital Discipleship’s Emergence: Online discipleship modules seamlessly amalgamate age-old biblical tenets with the expediencies of modern tech. They accommodate the flux of young disciples’ lives, enabling them to immerse in the Word, unshackled by geographical or temporal constraints.

Cost-Effective and Accessible: A standout merit of digital discipleship courses is their cost-effectiveness. Recognizing young believers’ financial challenges, these programs are competitively priced. Additionally, periodic promotional offers further sweeten the deal, enhancing accessibility.

Bespoke Curriculum: Programs such as those proffered by the Clickmill Digital Discipleship Training School are meticulously curated, addressing the singular challenges and aspirations of youthful believers. The syllabus isn’t merely about knowledge dissemination but about fostering and nurturing the quintessential traits requisite for authentic discipleship.

Reliability and Quality Assurance: Despite the plethora of online discipleship courses on offer, it’s imperative to cherry-pick one consonant with sound biblical principles and boasting a stellar track record. The Clickmill Digital Discipleship Training School, extolled in revered publications, accentuates its reliability and transformative impact.

Community Building and Mentorship: A hallmark of premier online discipleship courses is the camaraderie they engender. Despite the digital divide, students can forge connections, exchange insights, and evolve collectively, shepherded by mentors with a profound spiritual depth.

The journey of discipleship is a continuum of growth, enlightenment, and metamorphosis. 

While its essence remains anchored in Christ’s teachings, the modus operandi has been recalibrated to resonate with contemporary disciples. 

Digital discipleship academies, epitomized by the Clickmill Digital Discipleship Training School, offer a harmonious fusion of tradition and technology, priming the upcoming generation of disciples to illuminate the digital universe.

If it’s more of a traditional Discipleship School you are looking for, you will love this article titled, Discipleship Schools: 11 Most Revered Discipleship Schools

That brings us to the end of this article on the Essentials of Discipleship. 

The journey of discipleship, filled with passion, dedication, and unwavering faith, is a rewarding one. 

Whether you’re at the onset or have been walking the path for years, the core essentials of discipleship remain the same. 

Embrace them, live by them, and watch your life transform.

Essential Of Discipleship – Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the first step in starting my discipleship journey?
Begin with prayer and introspection, seeking God’s guidance. Dive into the Bible and consider joining a discipleship training school.

How can I find a mentor for my discipleship journey?
Engage with your local church community, attend group studies, or seek recommendations from fellow believers.

Are there any scholarships available for discipleship training schools?
Many institutions offer financial aid or scholarships. Research and reach out to schools to understand their provisions.

How do I balance my studies, work, and discipleship commitments?
Prioritization and time management are crucial. Set aside dedicated time for spiritual growth and seek support from mentors and peers.

Which Bible verses are essential for understanding discipleship?
Verses from the Gospels, especially the book of Matthew, are foundational. Delve into Acts, Romans, and Corinthians for deeper insights.

How can I deepen my understanding of discipleship outside of formal schooling? Engage in regular Bible study sessions, attend workshops or seminars, participate in community service, and seek guidance from seasoned disciples.

How can I financially support my discipleship journey with a limited budget?
Look for online resources, borrow books from church libraries, seek sponsorships, or consider group studies which often share costs.

How do I handle doubts or questions about my faith during my discipleship journey?
Doubts are natural. Engage in open discussions with your mentor, join group discussions, pray for clarity, and remember, seeking answers is part of growth.

What role does community play in discipleship?
A supportive community provides encouragement, shares experiences, offers guidance, and collectively grows in faith. It’s essential for mutual edification.

How can I ensure that I remain consistent in my discipleship journey?
Setting aside regular personal time for prayer and Bible study, being part of a study group, and seeking accountability from a mentor can help maintain consistency.

What essentials of discipleship did we miss? Let us know in the comments!