Sermon Transcript
Reader's Version
Disciples Make Disciples … But Are You One?Sermon by Gene SimcoReader’s Version
I heard a story about a local pastor who was known for his deep knowledge of the Bible and his commitment to discipling others. He had been discipling a young man from his congregation, helping him prepare for advanced studies at a prestigious university. The professors at the university were so impressed by the pastor's wisdom and teaching that they urged him to take up a position at the school, insisting it would bring him great recognition. The pastor, however, showed no interest in their offer. Perplexed, one of the professors asked him, “But aren’t you interested in making a name for yourself in the world?” To which the pastor simply replied, “Which world?”
In the last chapter, we talked about institutional learning, much of which ends up being worldly, filled with high-sounding nonsense, and focused on popularity within these earthly institutions. As we come to a close of those series in this chapter - now that we have explored what Christianity should be, the real question is, what do we do with it?
In this chapter, we’ll explore discipleship, drawing from Jesus, Paul, and others who understood that the call to make disciples is for everyone. It is not just the job of pastors or missionaries. A disciple implies a devoted allegiance to the teachings of one chosen as a master, as opposed to being a fan or a mere follower. A disciple adheres to the master’s teaching. And this is exactly what Jesus insists on.
Jesus’s insistence is clear in Luke 6:46:
"So why do you keep calling me ‘Lord, Lord!’ when you don’t do what I say?"
This brings us to an interesting point. When we talk about discipleship in the church, we often discuss the lack of it—how Christianity seems to be shrinking rather than growing. Usually, the crux of discipleship messages is a call for more discipleship, which is indeed important. However, in keeping with the theme of this series, I think we need to take a step back and look at the basics. We need to ask a very serious, but often overlooked, question: Are we disciples? Are we, ourselves, disciples?
Indeed, there is a vital call for making disciples, but we rarely hear a simple truth in these messages: Disciples make disciples. So before we focus on how to make disciples, we must ask, Am I truly a disciple?
To begin answering that, let’s look at discipleship in the Gospels. In the last chapter, we examined the end times through Matthew 24 and 25, where Jesus answers the question, “When will the end times happen?” The conclusion of His teaching was clear: Be prepared. Jesus ends the discourse with the sheep and the goats, the parable of judgment. Now, let’s return to the beginning of that section. Before the Olivet Discourse and after rebuking the religious leadership, we see this in
Matthew 24:1–3:
"As Jesus was leaving the Temple grounds, His disciples pointed out to Him the various Temple buildings. But He responded, 'Do you see all these buildings? I tell you the truth, they will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!' Later, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives. His disciples came to Him privately and said, 'Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will signal Your return and the end of the world?'"
So let’s take a moment to note who Jesus is addressing here: His disciples. His answer to their question came with a series of warnings. He let them know they would be persecuted, arrested, and that some would be killed. They would indeed go through tribulation, so severe that it would only be shortened for their sake—the sake of the elect. His answer wasn’t simply about suffering; it was about preparation. Leading up to that final judgment parable of the sheep and the goats, Jesus delivered the most extreme warning of all: you will be judged. None of this should sound strange to us when we consider the gravity of following Him.
Now, let’s go back to their original call, all the way in Matthew 4:18–22:
"One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers—Simon, also called Peter, and Andrew—throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, 'Come, follow Me, and I will show you how to fish for people!' And they left their nets at once and followed Him. A little farther up the shore, He saw two other brothers, James and John, sitting in a boat with their father, Zebedee, repairing their nets. And He called them to come, too. They immediately followed Him, leaving the boat and their father behind."
When Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him in Matthew 4, He used the phrase, "I will show you how to fish for people." This wasn't merely a clever metaphor to appeal to their occupation as fishermen; it was a profound declaration of their new mission. To be a disciple of Jesus is inherently to become a disciple maker. Just as fishing requires intentionality, effort, and patience, so does making disciples. The process involves more than just sharing information; it’s about investing in people, nurturing their spiritual growth, and guiding them into a deeper relationship with Christ. The call to be "fishers of men" is an invitation to join in Jesus’ work of bringing others into the kingdom, making it clear that true discipleship cannot exist in isolation. Disciples are not meant to merely follow; they are meant to multiply, actively drawing others into the transformative journey of following Jesus.
It’s remarkable to note that they immediately left their businesses and their livelihoods. This should prompt us to ask ourselves: Are we willing to make that kind of commitment to someone we call Lord? Discipleship begins with an invitation to follow and learn, but it is not without a warning. It’s not a bait-and-switch. From the outset, Jesus makes the cost of discipleship clear.
We see this further in Matthew 8:18–22:
"When Jesus saw the crowd around Him, He instructed His disciples to cross to the other side of the lake. Then one of the teachers of religious law said to Him, 'Teacher, I will follow You wherever You go.' But Jesus replied, 'Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay His head.' Another of His disciples said, 'Lord, first let me return home and bury my father.' But Jesus told him, 'Follow Me now. Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead.'”
Disciples are not made from fine print; they are made with clear and upfront truths. Jesus doesn’t soften the message or entice people with comforts. He presents the reality of what it means to follow Him, even when it sounds harsh.
This brings us back to Jesus’s warning in Luke 12:4–5:
"Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. But I’ll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, He’s the one to fear."
Jesus reiterates this point when He sends His disciples out with instructions in Matthew 10:28–31:
"Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows."
Matthew 10:32 “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. 33 But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven. 34 “Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. 35 ‘I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 Your enemies will be right in your own household!’ 37 “If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. 38 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.
The repeated warnings against fearing men emphasize an important truth: discipleship requires courage and trust in God. Fear of man has no place in the life of a disciple, for we serve a God who is sovereign and deeply values His children.
It’s worth addressing Jesus’s statement about bringing “a peace or a sword,” a passage that is frequently twisted out of context. For an in-depth exploration of this, I encourage readers to refer to my book Fortune Cookie Theology, specifically the chapter titled “Peace or a Sword.” In that chapter, I discuss extensively how this Scripture is often misinterpreted. It’s important to note that Jesus never calls for violence. On the contrary, He warns in Matthew 26:52: “Those who live by the sword will die by the sword.”
The early church provides a consistent testimony of nonviolence. Nowhere in Acts do we see retaliation against persecution. When James was killed by the sword, the church responded not with violence, but with prayer. Peter was rescued from prison not through warfare, but by divine intervention. Likewise, throughout the letters of Paul, Peter, John, James, and Jude, and even in the book of Revelation, we see no call to violence or retaliation, only steadfastness, faith, and perseverance through suffering.
On this note, Jesus’s statement about division in families, such as between parents and children, does not negate the command to honor one’s mother and father. Jesus isn’t preaching violence against family members. Rather, He’s warning that discipleship requires tough choices—choices that might put us at odds with even those closest to us. True disciples must prioritize allegiance to Christ over all else.
This call to discipleship becomes even clearer in Matthew 16:21–28:
"From then on, Jesus began to tell His disciples plainly that it was necessary for Him to go to Jerusalem, and that He would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day He would be raised from the dead. But Peter took Him aside and began to reprimand Him for saying such things. 'Heaven forbid, Lord,' he said. 'This will never happen to You!' Jesus turned to Peter and said, 'Get away from Me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to Me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.' Then Jesus said to His disciples, 'If any of you wants to be My follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow Me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for My sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? For the Son of Man will come with His angels in the glory of His Father and will judge all people according to their deeds. And I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom.’”
Notice how Jesus contrasts worldly thinking with heavenly thinking. Peter’s attempt to dissuade Jesus from the cross reveals his human point of view, which Jesus rebukes as dangerous. The same warning applies to us: earthly thinking leads to high-sounding nonsense, while heavenly thinking leads to eternal life. As we discussed in the last chapter, human reasoning often contradicts God’s truth.
Discipleship comes at a cost. Jesus calls us to follow Him by giving up the things of this world, things we’ll lose anyway. “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world but lose his soul?” This sharp contrast between worldly gain and eternal inheritance defines the call to discipleship.
Consider the story of the rich young ruler, which we explored in the chapter on money. The young man asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life and claimed to have kept all the commandments. But Jesus exposed his heart by saying, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.” Unable to part with his wealth, the young man went away sad. After this encounter, Peter reacts with a poignant question, which leads us to Matthew 19:27–30.
Matthew 19: 27 Then Peter said to him, “We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?” 28 Jesus replied, “I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.
This brings us to a stark contrast: the world versus eternal things. Discipleship demands self-denial and a willingness to live sacrificially. While not everyone is called to leave everything behind as the first disciples did, we are all called to care for Christ’s Church with the same devotion. The central truth is that disciples must know both the risks and the rewards. Discipleship is not crafted through fine print or bait-and-switch tactics. Fully devoted disciples are informed, willing, and committed.
Unfortunately, this principle is often overlooked in modern church practices. I’ve experienced this firsthand when delivering robust biblical teachings. Sometimes, other leaders—perhaps worried about growing their congregations or pleasing people—approach me with concerns, implying that such teachings might scare away newcomers. Their rationale often hinges on softening the message to make it more palatable, but this is contrary to how Jesus approached discipleship. Jesus never engaged in bait-and-switch tactics or buried His expectations in fine print. Why? Because He doesn’t operate in dishonesty.
This worldly approach isn’t working for the Church. Consider the youth group. Statistically, nearly 70% of youth involved in church programs drop out when they reach adulthood. Why? The answer lies in the lack of depth and substance. Youth ministries often prioritize entertainment—games, prizes, and fun—over the truth of what it means to follow Christ. When these young people encounter the real requirements of Christianity, they feel blindsided, as if they’ve been duped by a bait-and-switch.
A compelling case can be made that most of Jesus’ disciples were likely teenagers. One key piece of evidence is found in Matthew 17:24-27, where Jesus and Peter are questioned about paying the temple tax. According to Jewish law, only males aged 20 and above were required to pay this tax (Exodus 30:14). Yet, in this account, only Jesus and Peter are mentioned as paying it, suggesting that the other disciples were under the age of 20. This aligns with the rabbinic tradition of young men following a rabbi during their formative years, often as teenagers. This context highlights an extraordinary truth: Jesus entrusted the foundation of His Church to young people, challenging the modern church to reconsider how we view and empower our youth. Far from being merely the “future” of the Church, they are a vital part of its present, fully capable of handling hard truths and carrying the mantle of discipleship and leadership.
Yet, the truth is what the youth crave. In an age where information is at their fingertips, they hunger for authenticity. They don’t need to be treated with kid gloves; they need to hear the truth, just as Jesus taught His disciples. Fully devoted disciples are fully informed disciples. If we call ourselves disciples, we are also called to make disciples, as Jesus commanded in His Great Commission.
In Matthew 28:16–20, we read:
Matthew 28:16 Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! 18 Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations [peoples/ἔθνη], baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 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.”
This passage is often misused as a universal call to missions, but as I discuss in Fortune Cookie Theology, not everyone is called to missions or apostleship. Paul makes this clear in 1 Corinthians 12 when he explains the diversity of spiritual gifts and roles within the Church.
The Greek word for “making disciples” in this passage emphasizes personal mentoring, not merely preaching. Discipleship isn’t about geography—it’s about people. The term “nations” in the text can also mean “peoples” or “ethnic groups,” emphasizing the importance of reaching others, not just geographically distant individuals but those around us. For example, older generations should mentor the younger, bridging gaps in understanding and faith. The call to make disciples is relational, requiring us to meet people where they are, as Paul exemplified in 1 Corinthians 9.
This Great Commission is a call to action for every disciple of Jesus, urging us to invest in others just as we have been invested in by Christ. It’s a challenge to go beyond ourselves, to embrace the cost, and to take up our cross daily for the glory of God’s Kingdom.
Now, an important thing to note when we look to the book of Acts is that discipleship isn’t program-driven—it’s Holy Spirit-driven. A lot of people today are peddling programs, books, and courses, but that’s not at all how discipleship worked in the early church. It was led by the Spirit of God, not human strategies.
Take Acts 13 as an example. It says, “One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.’ So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way” (Acts 13:2-3). Notice how discipleship and missions begin here: with worship, fasting, prayer, and clear guidance from the Holy Spirit. The early church sought the Lord’s direction at every step, affirming their actions twice in this brief passage. Their model was rooted in dependence on God, not programs.
Discipleship and missions are Spirit-led, not human-driven.
If we continue to Acts 14, we see another significant moment in verse 23: “Paul and Barnabas also appointed elders in every church. With prayer and fasting, they turned the elders over to the care of the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.” Elders—leaders—are appointed by God through prayerful confirmation, not through worldly processes. Today, we often trust in degrees, popularity, or votes to qualify leaders, but in the early church, it was different. Leadership was Spirit-anointed and affirmed through church leaders by prayer and fasting. It wasn’t a popularity contest or a talent show. Discipleship was about being called, not self-selected.
In Acts 15, we see another reality of discipleship: it can be messy, but it remains fruitful. Paul and Barnabas have a sharp disagreement over John Mark. Barnabas takes Mark, likely because they’re cousins (Colossians 4:10), while Paul chooses Silas. Despite their disagreement, both continue making disciples. Later, in 2 Timothy 4:11, Paul writes, “Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry.” This shows us that even when someone stumbles, the door to redemption should never be fully closed. Discipleship can involve tough moments, but with God’s grace, relationships can be restored.
In Acts 16, Paul finds Timothy and brings him along as a disciple. This mentorship shapes Timothy into a vital leader in the early church, and Paul’s letters to Timothy, 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy, offer us rich insights into discipleship and leadership. Discipleship isn’t about worldly qualifications or exams; it’s about being teachable, anointed, and faithful. Paul saw Timothy’s potential and nurtured it. The Holy Spirit affirms and distributes gifts, as we see in 1 Corinthians 12, and the early church followed that leading.
Discipleship is not institutional—it’s relational. It’s not made in a classroom. Disciples don’t choose their majors; they are chosen by God. It’s the Holy Spirit who calls and equips, and the role of the church is to affirm that calling through prayer, fasting, and Spirit-led guidance.
Now, when we look to Paul’s letters to Timothy, we see Paul leaving Timothy in Ephesus with the responsibility of guiding and overseeing the church there. While we might equate this role to that of a modern pastor, it aligns more closely with what we would consider the responsibilities of an elder. Paul provides Timothy with extensive instructions on how to navigate church leadership, including dealing with difficult people, encouraging others, and identifying the requirements for pastoral and leadership roles.
When we turn to 1 Timothy 4, Paul specifically encourages Timothy to lead by example and to embrace and develop the gifts God has given him. He writes,
1 Timothy 4:6 If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters,[c] Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished [constantly nourished/ἐντρεφόμενος] by the message [Word] of faith and the good teaching you have followed. 7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. 8 “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” 9 This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. 10 This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers. 11 Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. 12 Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them. 14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you. 15 Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.
In this passage, Paul highlights the importance of godly discipline, spiritual growth, and using the gifts given by the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church. He calls Timothy to lead not by authority or age but through the example of a Christ-centered life. This leadership model is relational and deeply rooted in faith, showing us the essence of true discipleship: living out what we preach and guiding others to do the same.
If we look closely at these verses, the phrase “constantly nourished” in 1 Timothy 4:6 comes from the Greek word entrepomenos (ἐντρεφόμενος). This term carries the meaning of being perpetually or habitually nourished—sustained by something continually. Paul uses this word to emphasize that Timothy’s spiritual nourishment comes from the message of faith and good teaching he has received and continues to live by. This idea connects seamlessly to Paul’s later exhortation in the chapter when he says, “Throw yourself into these tasks so that everyone will see your progress” (1 Timothy 4:15). Paul highlights the importance of teaching and exhorting Timothy to immerse himself entirely in his ministry, particularly in his role as a teacher.
Paul’s instructions align with the leadership requirements outlined in 1 Timothy 3, where the ability to teach is a critical qualification for pastoral leadership. The Greek word for teaching (didaskalia – διδασκαλία) appears repeatedly throughout Paul’s letters, underscoring its essential role in discipleship and church leadership. This focus on teaching reminds us of Acts 6, where the apostles appointed deacons to handle administrative tasks, freeing the apostles to focus on “prayer and the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). Similarly, Paul insists that pastors should prioritize the ministry of teaching over tasks that others in the church are capable of doing.
Paul also addresses Timothy’s youth, saying, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). This encouragement highlights that discipleship and spiritual leadership are not limited by age. Even young disciples can set a powerful example when they are truly walking the path of discipleship.
Furthermore, Timothy’s ministry and gifting were confirmed through prophecy and the laying on of hands by the elders. This reflects the early church’s practice of appointing leaders through anointing and confirmation. In 2 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul writes, “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.” The emphasis on teaching is unmistakable, but this passage also reveals an essential characteristic of discipleship: it is a chain reaction. Paul taught Timothy, who was then tasked with teaching others who, in turn, would teach even more. This multiplication of leaders is the heart of discipleship.
If we look to the book of Titus, we see another one of Paul’s disciples. Titus is a short book, just three chapters long, yet it provides a wealth of guidance, including the requirements for church elders and encouragement for Titus about his teaching ministry in Crete. At the very beginning, Paul writes in Titus 1:5: “I left you on the island of Crete so you could complete our work there and appoint elders in each town as I instructed you.”
Once again, we see this idea of appointing elders, continuing the chain of discipleship that we’ve observed throughout Paul’s letters. This emphasizes that leadership and discipleship in the early church were not about institutional programs or human-designed systems but rather about Spirit-led appointment within the church. Paul trusts Titus to discern and appoint qualified leaders, ensuring the ongoing health and growth of the local churches.
In Titus 2, Paul provides instructions for Titus to teach various groups within the church. He writes:
"As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching. Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience. Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God."
This passage reveals several critical truths about discipleship. First, discipleship happens organically within a family-like environment, not through institutional programs. The older men and women are tasked with guiding the younger generation, showing that discipleship is a shared responsibility for everyone in the church. It is not limited to pastors or formal leadership roles but is woven into the fabric of everyday life and relationships.
Second, Paul warns against behavior that could “bring shame on the word of God.” The Greek word here is blasphēmeō (βλασφημέω), meaning to slander, defame, or blaspheme. This is a strong warning; just as blaspheming the Holy Spirit is considered a grave sin, so too is bringing disrepute to the gospel through poor behavior. Discipleship, therefore, requires that we live as ambassadors of Christ, leading by example in our conduct and faithfulness.
Finally, this passage underscores that discipleship happens in the rhythms of daily life, not just in formal settings or institutions. Paul encourages a mentorship model where older believers teach younger ones, reflecting the communal and relational nature of discipleship. This organic, life-on-life approach ensures that discipleship is not simply an academic exercise but a lived reality that impacts every aspect of our lives. Leaders and disciples alike are called to be examples, shaping others not only by what they teach but by how they live.
So, the big question for all of us is: Where’s your Timothy? Who are you investing in? Who are you walking alongside as you follow Jesus? Discipleship isn’t optional for believers—it’s the heartbeat of the Christian life. Jesus doesn’t call us to admire Him from a distance; He calls us to be fully devoted disciples. The call to make disciples is not reserved for professionals, pastors, or missionaries; it’s for everyone.
1 Corinthians 12:1 Corinthians 12:4 There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. 5 There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. 6 God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. 7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
In 1 Corinthians 12:4–7, Paul reminds us that every believer has gifts to use in building up the church and discipling others. If you haven’t already, start by identifying someone in your life who is teachable and willing to grow. Invest your time, prayer, and encouragement in helping them follow Jesus more closely.
Discipleship is the investment Jesus calls us to make. Think back to the parable of the talents in Matthew 25—often misunderstood as being about money. But it’s not about material wealth; it’s about investing in Kingdom growth, about pouring yourself into people, not possessions. When Jesus concludes the parable with the judgment of the sheep and the goats, He shows us the stakes: how we treat others and how we lead others into the Kingdom will be part of how we are judged. Discipleship requires selflessness and a willingness to live sacrificially.
Without discipleship, the church withers. I once knew a church that functioned more like a country club than a community of believers. They prioritized comfort over calling and voted out any pastor who challenged them with truth. The result? A congregation with an average age of 82 and no future to speak of. Yet, when God gave that church a second chance through a return to biblical discipleship, the transformation was miraculous. The same opportunity stands before all of us today.
So, what are some practical steps? Start with yourself. Look in the mirror each day and ask, Why do I call Jesus Lord? Is He truly the master of my life? Be intentional about discipleship. Find someone to walk with, share life with, and grow together in faith. Break bread together, study the Word, and pray with them. Be transparent about your struggles and victories—lead by example. Remember, you only need to be a few steps ahead to guide someone else. Discipleship is about passing the baton, not sprinting ahead.
Discipleship is the investment that lasts forever. Just as Paul poured into Timothy and Titus, we are called to pass on what we’ve learned to others. It’s not just a call; it’s a commitment—a daily surrender to God’s plans and promises. Yes, it is costly, but the reward is far greater than the sacrifice.
Jesus didn’t call us to an easy life but a faithful one. Discipleship moves us from comfort to courage, from selfishness to service, from being fair-weather fans to fully devoted followers. It’s not about being served but serving; not about being loved, but loving; not about holding on, but letting go. Every step of obedience is a deposit into eternity. Every act of love is a seed sown for God’s glory. Every sacrifice is a treasure stored where moths and rust cannot destroy.
This world doesn’t need more admirers of Jesus; it needs disciples. Disciples who live the gospel, love the lost, and shine the light of Christ in the darkness. And when we meet Him face to face, may we hear the words we long for: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Let us live for that moment. Let us invest in eternity. Let us follow Him—all the way home.
©️ Copyright 2024 Gene SimcoMost Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.Scriptures in brackets reflect the original Biblical languages.
I heard a story about a local pastor who was known for his deep knowledge of the Bible and his commitment to discipling others. He had been discipling a young man from his congregation, helping him prepare for advanced studies at a prestigious university. The professors at the university were so impressed by the pastor's wisdom and teaching that they urged him to take up a position at the school, insisting it would bring him great recognition. The pastor, however, showed no interest in their offer. Perplexed, one of the professors asked him, “But aren’t you interested in making a name for yourself in the world?” To which the pastor simply replied, “Which world?”
In the last chapter, we talked about institutional learning, much of which ends up being worldly, filled with high-sounding nonsense, and focused on popularity within these earthly institutions. As we come to a close of those series in this chapter - now that we have explored what Christianity should be, the real question is, what do we do with it?
In this chapter, we’ll explore discipleship, drawing from Jesus, Paul, and others who understood that the call to make disciples is for everyone. It is not just the job of pastors or missionaries. A disciple implies a devoted allegiance to the teachings of one chosen as a master, as opposed to being a fan or a mere follower. A disciple adheres to the master’s teaching. And this is exactly what Jesus insists on.
Jesus’s insistence is clear in Luke 6:46:
"So why do you keep calling me ‘Lord, Lord!’ when you don’t do what I say?"
This brings us to an interesting point. When we talk about discipleship in the church, we often discuss the lack of it—how Christianity seems to be shrinking rather than growing. Usually, the crux of discipleship messages is a call for more discipleship, which is indeed important. However, in keeping with the theme of this series, I think we need to take a step back and look at the basics. We need to ask a very serious, but often overlooked, question: Are we disciples? Are we, ourselves, disciples?
Indeed, there is a vital call for making disciples, but we rarely hear a simple truth in these messages: Disciples make disciples. So before we focus on how to make disciples, we must ask, Am I truly a disciple?
To begin answering that, let’s look at discipleship in the Gospels. In the last chapter, we examined the end times through Matthew 24 and 25, where Jesus answers the question, “When will the end times happen?” The conclusion of His teaching was clear: Be prepared. Jesus ends the discourse with the sheep and the goats, the parable of judgment. Now, let’s return to the beginning of that section. Before the Olivet Discourse and after rebuking the religious leadership, we see this in
Matthew 24:1–3:
"As Jesus was leaving the Temple grounds, His disciples pointed out to Him the various Temple buildings. But He responded, 'Do you see all these buildings? I tell you the truth, they will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!' Later, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives. His disciples came to Him privately and said, 'Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will signal Your return and the end of the world?'"
So let’s take a moment to note who Jesus is addressing here: His disciples. His answer to their question came with a series of warnings. He let them know they would be persecuted, arrested, and that some would be killed. They would indeed go through tribulation, so severe that it would only be shortened for their sake—the sake of the elect. His answer wasn’t simply about suffering; it was about preparation. Leading up to that final judgment parable of the sheep and the goats, Jesus delivered the most extreme warning of all: you will be judged. None of this should sound strange to us when we consider the gravity of following Him.
Now, let’s go back to their original call, all the way in Matthew 4:18–22:
"One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers—Simon, also called Peter, and Andrew—throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, 'Come, follow Me, and I will show you how to fish for people!' And they left their nets at once and followed Him. A little farther up the shore, He saw two other brothers, James and John, sitting in a boat with their father, Zebedee, repairing their nets. And He called them to come, too. They immediately followed Him, leaving the boat and their father behind."
When Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him in Matthew 4, He used the phrase, "I will show you how to fish for people." This wasn't merely a clever metaphor to appeal to their occupation as fishermen; it was a profound declaration of their new mission. To be a disciple of Jesus is inherently to become a disciple maker. Just as fishing requires intentionality, effort, and patience, so does making disciples. The process involves more than just sharing information; it’s about investing in people, nurturing their spiritual growth, and guiding them into a deeper relationship with Christ. The call to be "fishers of men" is an invitation to join in Jesus’ work of bringing others into the kingdom, making it clear that true discipleship cannot exist in isolation. Disciples are not meant to merely follow; they are meant to multiply, actively drawing others into the transformative journey of following Jesus.
It’s remarkable to note that they immediately left their businesses and their livelihoods. This should prompt us to ask ourselves: Are we willing to make that kind of commitment to someone we call Lord? Discipleship begins with an invitation to follow and learn, but it is not without a warning. It’s not a bait-and-switch. From the outset, Jesus makes the cost of discipleship clear.
We see this further in Matthew 8:18–22:
"When Jesus saw the crowd around Him, He instructed His disciples to cross to the other side of the lake. Then one of the teachers of religious law said to Him, 'Teacher, I will follow You wherever You go.' But Jesus replied, 'Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay His head.' Another of His disciples said, 'Lord, first let me return home and bury my father.' But Jesus told him, 'Follow Me now. Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead.'”
Disciples are not made from fine print; they are made with clear and upfront truths. Jesus doesn’t soften the message or entice people with comforts. He presents the reality of what it means to follow Him, even when it sounds harsh.
This brings us back to Jesus’s warning in Luke 12:4–5:
"Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. But I’ll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, He’s the one to fear."
Jesus reiterates this point when He sends His disciples out with instructions in Matthew 10:28–31:
"Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows."
Matthew 10:32 “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. 33 But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven. 34 “Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. 35 ‘I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 Your enemies will be right in your own household!’ 37 “If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. 38 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.
The repeated warnings against fearing men emphasize an important truth: discipleship requires courage and trust in God. Fear of man has no place in the life of a disciple, for we serve a God who is sovereign and deeply values His children.
It’s worth addressing Jesus’s statement about bringing “a peace or a sword,” a passage that is frequently twisted out of context. For an in-depth exploration of this, I encourage readers to refer to my book Fortune Cookie Theology, specifically the chapter titled “Peace or a Sword.” In that chapter, I discuss extensively how this Scripture is often misinterpreted. It’s important to note that Jesus never calls for violence. On the contrary, He warns in Matthew 26:52: “Those who live by the sword will die by the sword.”
The early church provides a consistent testimony of nonviolence. Nowhere in Acts do we see retaliation against persecution. When James was killed by the sword, the church responded not with violence, but with prayer. Peter was rescued from prison not through warfare, but by divine intervention. Likewise, throughout the letters of Paul, Peter, John, James, and Jude, and even in the book of Revelation, we see no call to violence or retaliation, only steadfastness, faith, and perseverance through suffering.
On this note, Jesus’s statement about division in families, such as between parents and children, does not negate the command to honor one’s mother and father. Jesus isn’t preaching violence against family members. Rather, He’s warning that discipleship requires tough choices—choices that might put us at odds with even those closest to us. True disciples must prioritize allegiance to Christ over all else.
This call to discipleship becomes even clearer in Matthew 16:21–28:
"From then on, Jesus began to tell His disciples plainly that it was necessary for Him to go to Jerusalem, and that He would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day He would be raised from the dead. But Peter took Him aside and began to reprimand Him for saying such things. 'Heaven forbid, Lord,' he said. 'This will never happen to You!' Jesus turned to Peter and said, 'Get away from Me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to Me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.' Then Jesus said to His disciples, 'If any of you wants to be My follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow Me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for My sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? For the Son of Man will come with His angels in the glory of His Father and will judge all people according to their deeds. And I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom.’”
Notice how Jesus contrasts worldly thinking with heavenly thinking. Peter’s attempt to dissuade Jesus from the cross reveals his human point of view, which Jesus rebukes as dangerous. The same warning applies to us: earthly thinking leads to high-sounding nonsense, while heavenly thinking leads to eternal life. As we discussed in the last chapter, human reasoning often contradicts God’s truth.
Discipleship comes at a cost. Jesus calls us to follow Him by giving up the things of this world, things we’ll lose anyway. “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world but lose his soul?” This sharp contrast between worldly gain and eternal inheritance defines the call to discipleship.
Consider the story of the rich young ruler, which we explored in the chapter on money. The young man asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life and claimed to have kept all the commandments. But Jesus exposed his heart by saying, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.” Unable to part with his wealth, the young man went away sad. After this encounter, Peter reacts with a poignant question, which leads us to Matthew 19:27–30.
Matthew 19: 27 Then Peter said to him, “We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?” 28 Jesus replied, “I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.
This brings us to a stark contrast: the world versus eternal things. Discipleship demands self-denial and a willingness to live sacrificially. While not everyone is called to leave everything behind as the first disciples did, we are all called to care for Christ’s Church with the same devotion. The central truth is that disciples must know both the risks and the rewards. Discipleship is not crafted through fine print or bait-and-switch tactics. Fully devoted disciples are informed, willing, and committed.
Unfortunately, this principle is often overlooked in modern church practices. I’ve experienced this firsthand when delivering robust biblical teachings. Sometimes, other leaders—perhaps worried about growing their congregations or pleasing people—approach me with concerns, implying that such teachings might scare away newcomers. Their rationale often hinges on softening the message to make it more palatable, but this is contrary to how Jesus approached discipleship. Jesus never engaged in bait-and-switch tactics or buried His expectations in fine print. Why? Because He doesn’t operate in dishonesty.
This worldly approach isn’t working for the Church. Consider the youth group. Statistically, nearly 70% of youth involved in church programs drop out when they reach adulthood. Why? The answer lies in the lack of depth and substance. Youth ministries often prioritize entertainment—games, prizes, and fun—over the truth of what it means to follow Christ. When these young people encounter the real requirements of Christianity, they feel blindsided, as if they’ve been duped by a bait-and-switch.
A compelling case can be made that most of Jesus’ disciples were likely teenagers. One key piece of evidence is found in Matthew 17:24-27, where Jesus and Peter are questioned about paying the temple tax. According to Jewish law, only males aged 20 and above were required to pay this tax (Exodus 30:14). Yet, in this account, only Jesus and Peter are mentioned as paying it, suggesting that the other disciples were under the age of 20. This aligns with the rabbinic tradition of young men following a rabbi during their formative years, often as teenagers. This context highlights an extraordinary truth: Jesus entrusted the foundation of His Church to young people, challenging the modern church to reconsider how we view and empower our youth. Far from being merely the “future” of the Church, they are a vital part of its present, fully capable of handling hard truths and carrying the mantle of discipleship and leadership.
Yet, the truth is what the youth crave. In an age where information is at their fingertips, they hunger for authenticity. They don’t need to be treated with kid gloves; they need to hear the truth, just as Jesus taught His disciples. Fully devoted disciples are fully informed disciples. If we call ourselves disciples, we are also called to make disciples, as Jesus commanded in His Great Commission.
In Matthew 28:16–20, we read:
Matthew 28:16 Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! 18 Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations [peoples/ἔθνη], baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 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.”
This passage is often misused as a universal call to missions, but as I discuss in Fortune Cookie Theology, not everyone is called to missions or apostleship. Paul makes this clear in 1 Corinthians 12 when he explains the diversity of spiritual gifts and roles within the Church.
The Greek word for “making disciples” in this passage emphasizes personal mentoring, not merely preaching. Discipleship isn’t about geography—it’s about people. The term “nations” in the text can also mean “peoples” or “ethnic groups,” emphasizing the importance of reaching others, not just geographically distant individuals but those around us. For example, older generations should mentor the younger, bridging gaps in understanding and faith. The call to make disciples is relational, requiring us to meet people where they are, as Paul exemplified in 1 Corinthians 9.
This Great Commission is a call to action for every disciple of Jesus, urging us to invest in others just as we have been invested in by Christ. It’s a challenge to go beyond ourselves, to embrace the cost, and to take up our cross daily for the glory of God’s Kingdom.
Now, an important thing to note when we look to the book of Acts is that discipleship isn’t program-driven—it’s Holy Spirit-driven. A lot of people today are peddling programs, books, and courses, but that’s not at all how discipleship worked in the early church. It was led by the Spirit of God, not human strategies.
Take Acts 13 as an example. It says, “One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.’ So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way” (Acts 13:2-3). Notice how discipleship and missions begin here: with worship, fasting, prayer, and clear guidance from the Holy Spirit. The early church sought the Lord’s direction at every step, affirming their actions twice in this brief passage. Their model was rooted in dependence on God, not programs.
Discipleship and missions are Spirit-led, not human-driven.
If we continue to Acts 14, we see another significant moment in verse 23: “Paul and Barnabas also appointed elders in every church. With prayer and fasting, they turned the elders over to the care of the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.” Elders—leaders—are appointed by God through prayerful confirmation, not through worldly processes. Today, we often trust in degrees, popularity, or votes to qualify leaders, but in the early church, it was different. Leadership was Spirit-anointed and affirmed through church leaders by prayer and fasting. It wasn’t a popularity contest or a talent show. Discipleship was about being called, not self-selected.
In Acts 15, we see another reality of discipleship: it can be messy, but it remains fruitful. Paul and Barnabas have a sharp disagreement over John Mark. Barnabas takes Mark, likely because they’re cousins (Colossians 4:10), while Paul chooses Silas. Despite their disagreement, both continue making disciples. Later, in 2 Timothy 4:11, Paul writes, “Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry.” This shows us that even when someone stumbles, the door to redemption should never be fully closed. Discipleship can involve tough moments, but with God’s grace, relationships can be restored.
In Acts 16, Paul finds Timothy and brings him along as a disciple. This mentorship shapes Timothy into a vital leader in the early church, and Paul’s letters to Timothy, 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy, offer us rich insights into discipleship and leadership. Discipleship isn’t about worldly qualifications or exams; it’s about being teachable, anointed, and faithful. Paul saw Timothy’s potential and nurtured it. The Holy Spirit affirms and distributes gifts, as we see in 1 Corinthians 12, and the early church followed that leading.
Discipleship is not institutional—it’s relational. It’s not made in a classroom. Disciples don’t choose their majors; they are chosen by God. It’s the Holy Spirit who calls and equips, and the role of the church is to affirm that calling through prayer, fasting, and Spirit-led guidance.
Now, when we look to Paul’s letters to Timothy, we see Paul leaving Timothy in Ephesus with the responsibility of guiding and overseeing the church there. While we might equate this role to that of a modern pastor, it aligns more closely with what we would consider the responsibilities of an elder. Paul provides Timothy with extensive instructions on how to navigate church leadership, including dealing with difficult people, encouraging others, and identifying the requirements for pastoral and leadership roles.
When we turn to 1 Timothy 4, Paul specifically encourages Timothy to lead by example and to embrace and develop the gifts God has given him. He writes,
1 Timothy 4:6 If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters,[c] Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished [constantly nourished/ἐντρεφόμενος] by the message [Word] of faith and the good teaching you have followed. 7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. 8 “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” 9 This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. 10 This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers. 11 Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. 12 Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them. 14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you. 15 Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.
In this passage, Paul highlights the importance of godly discipline, spiritual growth, and using the gifts given by the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church. He calls Timothy to lead not by authority or age but through the example of a Christ-centered life. This leadership model is relational and deeply rooted in faith, showing us the essence of true discipleship: living out what we preach and guiding others to do the same.
If we look closely at these verses, the phrase “constantly nourished” in 1 Timothy 4:6 comes from the Greek word entrepomenos (ἐντρεφόμενος). This term carries the meaning of being perpetually or habitually nourished—sustained by something continually. Paul uses this word to emphasize that Timothy’s spiritual nourishment comes from the message of faith and good teaching he has received and continues to live by. This idea connects seamlessly to Paul’s later exhortation in the chapter when he says, “Throw yourself into these tasks so that everyone will see your progress” (1 Timothy 4:15). Paul highlights the importance of teaching and exhorting Timothy to immerse himself entirely in his ministry, particularly in his role as a teacher.
Paul’s instructions align with the leadership requirements outlined in 1 Timothy 3, where the ability to teach is a critical qualification for pastoral leadership. The Greek word for teaching (didaskalia – διδασκαλία) appears repeatedly throughout Paul’s letters, underscoring its essential role in discipleship and church leadership. This focus on teaching reminds us of Acts 6, where the apostles appointed deacons to handle administrative tasks, freeing the apostles to focus on “prayer and the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). Similarly, Paul insists that pastors should prioritize the ministry of teaching over tasks that others in the church are capable of doing.
Paul also addresses Timothy’s youth, saying, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). This encouragement highlights that discipleship and spiritual leadership are not limited by age. Even young disciples can set a powerful example when they are truly walking the path of discipleship.
Furthermore, Timothy’s ministry and gifting were confirmed through prophecy and the laying on of hands by the elders. This reflects the early church’s practice of appointing leaders through anointing and confirmation. In 2 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul writes, “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.” The emphasis on teaching is unmistakable, but this passage also reveals an essential characteristic of discipleship: it is a chain reaction. Paul taught Timothy, who was then tasked with teaching others who, in turn, would teach even more. This multiplication of leaders is the heart of discipleship.
If we look to the book of Titus, we see another one of Paul’s disciples. Titus is a short book, just three chapters long, yet it provides a wealth of guidance, including the requirements for church elders and encouragement for Titus about his teaching ministry in Crete. At the very beginning, Paul writes in Titus 1:5: “I left you on the island of Crete so you could complete our work there and appoint elders in each town as I instructed you.”
Once again, we see this idea of appointing elders, continuing the chain of discipleship that we’ve observed throughout Paul’s letters. This emphasizes that leadership and discipleship in the early church were not about institutional programs or human-designed systems but rather about Spirit-led appointment within the church. Paul trusts Titus to discern and appoint qualified leaders, ensuring the ongoing health and growth of the local churches.
In Titus 2, Paul provides instructions for Titus to teach various groups within the church. He writes:
"As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching. Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience. Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God."
This passage reveals several critical truths about discipleship. First, discipleship happens organically within a family-like environment, not through institutional programs. The older men and women are tasked with guiding the younger generation, showing that discipleship is a shared responsibility for everyone in the church. It is not limited to pastors or formal leadership roles but is woven into the fabric of everyday life and relationships.
Second, Paul warns against behavior that could “bring shame on the word of God.” The Greek word here is blasphēmeō (βλασφημέω), meaning to slander, defame, or blaspheme. This is a strong warning; just as blaspheming the Holy Spirit is considered a grave sin, so too is bringing disrepute to the gospel through poor behavior. Discipleship, therefore, requires that we live as ambassadors of Christ, leading by example in our conduct and faithfulness.
Finally, this passage underscores that discipleship happens in the rhythms of daily life, not just in formal settings or institutions. Paul encourages a mentorship model where older believers teach younger ones, reflecting the communal and relational nature of discipleship. This organic, life-on-life approach ensures that discipleship is not simply an academic exercise but a lived reality that impacts every aspect of our lives. Leaders and disciples alike are called to be examples, shaping others not only by what they teach but by how they live.
So, the big question for all of us is: Where’s your Timothy? Who are you investing in? Who are you walking alongside as you follow Jesus? Discipleship isn’t optional for believers—it’s the heartbeat of the Christian life. Jesus doesn’t call us to admire Him from a distance; He calls us to be fully devoted disciples. The call to make disciples is not reserved for professionals, pastors, or missionaries; it’s for everyone.
1 Corinthians 12:1 Corinthians 12:4 There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. 5 There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. 6 God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. 7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
In 1 Corinthians 12:4–7, Paul reminds us that every believer has gifts to use in building up the church and discipling others. If you haven’t already, start by identifying someone in your life who is teachable and willing to grow. Invest your time, prayer, and encouragement in helping them follow Jesus more closely.
Discipleship is the investment Jesus calls us to make. Think back to the parable of the talents in Matthew 25—often misunderstood as being about money. But it’s not about material wealth; it’s about investing in Kingdom growth, about pouring yourself into people, not possessions. When Jesus concludes the parable with the judgment of the sheep and the goats, He shows us the stakes: how we treat others and how we lead others into the Kingdom will be part of how we are judged. Discipleship requires selflessness and a willingness to live sacrificially.
Without discipleship, the church withers. I once knew a church that functioned more like a country club than a community of believers. They prioritized comfort over calling and voted out any pastor who challenged them with truth. The result? A congregation with an average age of 82 and no future to speak of. Yet, when God gave that church a second chance through a return to biblical discipleship, the transformation was miraculous. The same opportunity stands before all of us today.
So, what are some practical steps? Start with yourself. Look in the mirror each day and ask, Why do I call Jesus Lord? Is He truly the master of my life? Be intentional about discipleship. Find someone to walk with, share life with, and grow together in faith. Break bread together, study the Word, and pray with them. Be transparent about your struggles and victories—lead by example. Remember, you only need to be a few steps ahead to guide someone else. Discipleship is about passing the baton, not sprinting ahead.
Discipleship is the investment that lasts forever. Just as Paul poured into Timothy and Titus, we are called to pass on what we’ve learned to others. It’s not just a call; it’s a commitment—a daily surrender to God’s plans and promises. Yes, it is costly, but the reward is far greater than the sacrifice.
Jesus didn’t call us to an easy life but a faithful one. Discipleship moves us from comfort to courage, from selfishness to service, from being fair-weather fans to fully devoted followers. It’s not about being served but serving; not about being loved, but loving; not about holding on, but letting go. Every step of obedience is a deposit into eternity. Every act of love is a seed sown for God’s glory. Every sacrifice is a treasure stored where moths and rust cannot destroy.
This world doesn’t need more admirers of Jesus; it needs disciples. Disciples who live the gospel, love the lost, and shine the light of Christ in the darkness. And when we meet Him face to face, may we hear the words we long for: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Let us live for that moment. Let us invest in eternity. Let us follow Him—all the way home.
©️ Copyright 2024 Gene SimcoMost Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.Scriptures in brackets reflect the original Biblical languages.