Multiplying Disciple

The term “disciple” appears 269 times in the New Testament. In the ancient world, a disciple was a student or follower who closely imitated their teacher. True disciples of Jesus seek to emulate his life and teachings.

If we truly want to be like our Savior then we also need to be imparting our faith into others, both followers of Christ and those who have no relationship with God. This is the last and most important commandment Jesus gave to His people in Matthew 28, often called the Great Commission.

“19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

So how do we apply this verse to our lives? What does it mean to “go and make disciples” and thereby multiplying our faith? Followers should exemplify three characteristics: walk by faith, communicate their faith, and multiply their faith into others.

Being a disciple involves putting yourself under the Lordship and leadership of Christ through the power of His Spirit, which gives us the ability to live a life worthy of the gospel (Philipians 1:27). Spiritual growth means becoming more like Jesus, following in his example and engaging in the activities that he did.

Paul exhorts us in 1 Peter 3:15 that we are to always be ready to give an account for the hope we have, with gentleness and respect. Whether at the grocery store, work, at our children’s soccer game, or in our neighborhood, a disciple should intentionally engage those who don’t know Jesus with the good news.

Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all show us Jesus’ plan to besure the message of the gospel would continue on long after his death. Jesus knew exactly how he would accomplish this, by choosing a group of 12 men who observed and learned and did ministry with him. He focused on Peter, James, and John, who carried on his mission after his ascension. This is the model Jesus left us. We are called to do the same.

As you look at the DNA of a disciple: walks by faith, communicates their faith, and multiplies their faith, which of these elements is easiest for you? Which one is the most challenging? What do you think are the consequences if we focus too much on only one part of being a disciple?

Think through the people currently in your community. Make a list of the 1-3 people and commit to taking them through the Developing a Kingdom Vision lesson or Helping Others Discover Their Gifts.