Ten Essentials for New ChristiansНамуна

#7: Decide to Follow Jesus for the Rest of Your Life

Being a disciple and making disciples depends on having deep spiritual relationships with others. Because of the bond we share with Jesus, who loves us so much, it may be that these brothers and sisters in Christ will become our closest friends. And if we truly love them the way Jesus loves us, we will be willing to lay down our lives for them, just as Jesus did for us. That’s why Jesus called this “the greatest love” (John 15:13).

As you seriously commit to being a disciple of Jesus, the Holy Spirit’s work in you will help you talk with others about your faith in Christ. Having a spiritual mentor will accelerate your knowledge and understanding of God. In the supernatural progression that the Lord has in mind for you, don’t be surprised when you find yourself eager and comfortable in bringing others to Christ.

Q&A

What’s the Best Way to Do Discipleship?

There are two ways to engage with others in a discipleship journey: one-on-one and with a group (notice we didn’t say “by yourself ”). We have participated in both of these frameworks, and both have been effective. However, our experience is that discipleship and disciple-making are more effective in a group. Having more personalities involved is both enriching and challenging.

God made us to be in a community, and we are more likely to thrive with a group of people growing together spiritually than we would with just one other person. Besides, this is the way Jesus taught his disciples. He had his large group of twelve and his inner circle of three.

In his excellent book, The Complete Book of Discipleship, Bill Hull offers five principles for every group. Whether you are the leader or a member of a group, these are excellent guidelines:

• Be intentional—If you’re a leader, don’t promise more than you can deliver, and if you are a member, don’t expect the group to meet all your spiritual needs.
• Provide structure—Develop a statement of purpose for the group, one that will help the members develop good habits and reach their goals.
• Strive for intimacy—Create an atmosphere that allows people to lower their defenses and be authentic.
• Insist on outreach—Don’t close the group off to new people. You’re a group, not a clique.
• Commit to reproduce—If you’re a member, your goal should be to someday lead a discipleship group. If you’re a leader, look for others who could become leaders.