Influencing Your College Campus for Jesus a 5 - Day Devotion by Shannon ThomasSample

Dedicated Discipleship

As a ministry leader in college, I learned quickly that having the biggest events or being the loudest voice didn’t create lasting influence. Real change happens through relationships. This became especially clear to me when I dove deeper into Jesus' commands to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19-20), and that often means starting small—one person at a time. I've learned that The Great Commission isn’t just about drawing huge crowds; it’s also about building deep, personal connections.

In our campus ministry, we found that true transformation took place when we spent intentional time with students. We began inviting students to grab lunch or dinner, welcoming them into our lives, and walking with them as they learned what it meant to follow Jesus. It wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t about numbers or clout chasing. It was about encouraging our peers to pursue and chase Jesus. But what we saw was the ripple effect: the students we discipled went on to disciple others, and soon, the campus was being transformed. Together, we were influencing the campus for Jesus.

We learned that this growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Discipleship is about doing life together—teaching and modeling how to follow Jesus in everyday moments. After a while, It wasn’t just a few of us trying to make a difference; it was a movement. And it all started with dedicated discipleship—one person at a time. When we commit to discipleship, we become part of a movement that crosses generations, impacting not just our campus or church but the world.

Consider This Discipleship Strategy:

• Acquire a Friend: Form a genuine relationship.
• Help them Acknowledge their need for Jesus: Guide them to Christ.
• Walk with them as they Adapt to God’s ways: Support their growth.
• Work together to Advance God’s kingdom: Serve together in ministry.
• Hold each other Accountable: Stay committed to God’s work.

Reflection Question: Who can you intentionally disciple on your campus or church? What steps can you take today to help them grow in their walk with Jesus?

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for the call to make disciples. Give me eyes to see the people You want me to invest in and the wisdom to lead them toward You. May our discipleship efforts ripple across the campus, church, and beyond.