Discipling Others: Leading Like Christ

Discipleship others is not just a suggestion—it is a calling. Jesus’ final words to His followers in Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT) were a command:

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

A strong, thriving church is not built on converts alone—it is built on fully devoted followers of Christ. But faith doesn’t grow in isolation. A new believer without guidance is like a young seedling in rocky soil—without strong roots, their faith may not withstand the trials of life.

That’s why discipleship is so important. Mature Christians have a responsibility to walk alongside younger believers, helping them build a strong foundation in Christ. This is not about having all the answers but about being willing to invest in others, encourage them, and point them to Jesus. This very conviction is why I started this blog—to equip believers to make disciples and to lead others toward a deeper, unshakable faith in Christ.

Jesus’ Model of Discipleship

Jesus didn’t just teach from a distance—He lived life with His disciples. He ate with them, traveled with them, corrected them, and encouraged them. He didn’t just teach them principles; He showed them how to live by example.

As we disciple others, we should follow Jesus’ example by:

• Building relationships – Discipleship is personal, not just a lesson or program.
• Teaching truth – Pointing people to Scripture and sound doctrine.
• Leading by example – Living in a way that reflects Christ’s love and humility.
• Empowering others – Encouraging disciples to step into their own callings.

Jesus understood that faith isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about transformation. If we want to see lives changed, we have to be willing to invest in people the way He did.

Building Meaningful Relationships

Faith grows in community. Jesus didn’t disciple in a classroom—He discipled through relationships. He spent time talking, listening, and guiding His followers in the everyday moments of life.

Ways to build discipleship relationships:

• Be intentional – Reach out and invest in others.
• Be available – Discipleship happens in everyday life.
• Be encouraging – Help others grow in their faith by celebrating their spiritual wins and encouraging them through struggles.

Who in your life needs someone to walk alongside them in faith? Discipleship isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present.

Teaching and Encouraging Growth

Discipleship involves teaching, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t have to be a pastor or theologian to help someone grow in their faith. You just have to be willing to share what you know and point them to Jesus.

Practical ways to disciple someone:

• Read the Bible together – Go through a book of the Bible and discuss how to apply it.
• Pray together – Teach them to pray by modeling it in your own life.
• Encourage spiritual habits – Help them develop a habit of personal Bible study, church attendance, and service.
• Talk about real-life application – Help them navigate faith in their daily struggles.

A strong foundation in Christ doesn’t come overnight—it is built brick by brick, lesson by lesson, prayer by prayer.

Discipling Through Service

One of the most effective ways to disciple is by serving together. When you work alongside someone in ministry, it strengthens your bond and teaches them through experience.

Jesus modeled this when He washed His disciples’ feet in John 13:14-15 (NLT):

“And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.”

Ways to disciple through service:

• Join a ministry together – Work in a food pantry, help with church setup, or lead a small group.
• Look for opportunities to help others – Visit the sick, assist the elderly, or help a struggling family.
• Live out the Gospel daily – Show kindness and love in everyday interactions.

Discipleship isn’t just about teaching—it’s about doing. When people see Christ in your actions, they learn by watching your faith in action.

Multiplying Disciples

The ultimate goal of discipleship is multiplication—disciples making disciples. Paul instructed Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:2 (NLT):

“You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others.”

We disciple others so they can disciple others. The church grew in the book of Acts not just because of sermons but because believers were discipling and multiplying.

Encourage those you disciple to:

• Share what they’ve learned with others.
• Step into leadership roles in their church or community.
• Continue growing and investing in new disciples.

Discipleship is how faith is passed from one generation to the next. It is not optional—it is essential. If we want to see lives transformed, we must become disciple-makers.

Other Posts in This Series

• Leading Like Christ: A Call to Spiritual Leadership – Read Here
• Embracing Servant Leadership: The Power of Serving Others – Read Here
• Leading by Example: Reflecting Christ in Everyday Life – Read Here
• Relying on God’s Strength and Wisdom – Read Here
• Leading Like Christ (Without Tripping)
• The Path of a Servant Leader
• Walking in His Footprint: Leading Like Jesus
• Leaning on His Strength
• Passing the Torch of Faith

Join Us in Spreading the Gospel!

💙 Thank you! By the time you read this, our blog has surpassed 100,000 pageviews since October! Your support is making a difference!

✔ Follow & Like Us on Facebook: Disciple Blueprint

🔄 Share this message to encourage others.

💬 Comment: Who has been a spiritual mentor in your life?

📩 Join Our Newsletter by filling out the form below!