LESSON 1 – WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?
Theme: The Foundation of Christian Life
Core Scripture: Matthew 28:19–20
Additional Scriptures: Luke 14:26–27; John 8:31–32; Acts 2:42–47; 2 Timothy 2:2
Lesson Objective
By the end of this lesson, the learner will be able to:
Key Concepts
Discipleship
Discipleship is the lifelong process of becoming like Jesus through learning, obedience, spiritual growth, and multiplication. It involves intentional guidance, mentoring, accountability, and practical modeling of Christ’s life. Discipleship is holistic, covering spiritual, relational, and practical aspects of life.
Disciple
A disciple is more than a follower; a disciple is a learner, imitator, and reproducer of Christ. A disciple lives for Christ, not self, and actively participates in the mission of God.
Great Commission
The Great Commission is Jesus’ command for all believers to make disciples, baptize them, and teach them to obey everything He commanded. It is central to the purpose of the Church and emphasizes multiplication, obedience, and global mission.
Teaching Notes
Discipleship as Relationship and Transformation
Discipleship is both relationship and transformation. It is not a program but a spiritual journey where a mature believer guides another to Christ-likeness. Key components include teaching God’s Word, mentoring and counseling, accountability in daily life, practical modeling of Christlike behavior, and spiritual multiplication and reproduction.
Difference Between a Believer and a Disciple
Many Christians believe in Jesus, but not all are disciples. The distinction is found in lifestyle and obedience:
Believer | Disciple
Accepts Jesus | Follows Jesus
Has faith | Lives in obedience
Seeks blessings | Seeks Christ
Lives for self | Lives for Christ
Attends church | Is the church
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20)
Discipleship is a command, not optional. Jesus instructs believers to go, reach people where they are, baptize to symbolize new life in Christ, and teach others to obey God’s commands. The Great Commission emphasizes multiplication, obedience, and global mission.
Characteristics of a Disciple
A disciple is known by obedience to Christ, sacrificial living, community and fellowship, and reproduction (multiplication).
Obedience to Christ
John 8:31 – “If you obey my teaching, you are truly my disciples.”
Sacrificial Living
Luke 14:26–27 – “If anyone wants to follow me, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily.”
Community and Fellowship
Acts 2:42 – “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayer.”
Reproduction (Multiplication)
2 Timothy 2:2 – “Teach faithful people who will be able to teach others also.”
Practical Application
To live as a disciple, commit to daily Bible reading and prayer, follow Christ in every area of life, join a community of believers, and serve others while actively multiplying disciples.
Reflection & Discussion Questions
Action Steps (This Week)
Leadership / Mentor Notes
Encourage learners to be honest about their spiritual condition.
Guide them to create a personal discipleship plan.
Assign accountability partners for follow-up.
Use real-life ministry examples to illustrate principles.
Memory Verse
Matthew 28:19 – “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
