The 10 Profound Ways to Make Disciples:
A Comprehensive Guide to Fulfilling the Great Commission
Making disciples is not just an activity; it is a way of life for every follower of Jesus Christ. In the Great Commission, Jesus commands His disciples to go into all the world, making disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). This command remains relevant for us today, as believers are called to continue the work of spreading the Gospel and nurturing new believers in their faith.
In this article, we will delve deeply into 10 profound ways to make disciples, which will help you not only understand the biblical foundation of discipleship but also how to apply it in practical ways to transform lives and fulfill God’s Great Commission. The following methods will guide you on how to effectively engage in disciple-making, just as Jesus taught and modeled for us.
1. Preach the Gospel with Boldness
Scripture Reference: Mark 16:15
“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
The first step in making disciples is to boldly preach the Gospel. This means stepping out of your comfort zone to share the life-changing message of Jesus with those who have yet to hear it. The boldness required does not come from our own strength but from the power of the Holy Spirit working in and through us.
How to Apply This:
- Share the Gospel in everyday conversations with friends, family, and strangers.
- Use every opportunity to speak about Jesus, and don’t let fear hinder you.
2. Live a Christ-Centered Life
Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:16
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Our lives should be the most compelling testimony of the Gospel. When we live a Christ-centered life, others will see His love, grace, and truth reflected in our actions. Jesus said that our good works should lead others to glorify God.
How to Apply This:
- Live with integrity, humility, and love, allowing your character to shine in every situation.
- Actively choose to forgive, serve, and love others, even when it’s difficult.
3. Invest in One-on-One Relationships
Scripture Reference: 2 Timothy 2:2
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
Jesus invested in the lives of a few close disciples. By doing so, He modeled the importance of relationships in discipleship. Personal, one-on-one relationships allow for deeper teaching and accountability.
How to Apply This:
- Invest in the lives of those around you, offering guidance, encouragement, and prayer.
- Build lasting relationships where you can walk alongside others in their faith journey.
4. Teach the Word of God Faithfully
Scripture Reference: 2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
The Bible is the foundation for all discipleship. When making disciples, we must teach them God’s Word so they are fully equipped to live according to God’s will. Teaching the Scriptures helps new believers grow and become mature followers of Christ.
How to Apply This:
- Engage in regular Bible studies and discussions.
- Teach not only through words but by modeling how to live out God’s Word.
5. Model Prayer and Spiritual Disciplines
Scripture Reference: Luke 11:1
“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray…'”
Jesus modeled a life of prayer and spiritual disciplines. For discipleship to be effective, it is crucial to teach new believers the importance of prayer, fasting, worship, and other spiritual disciplines that draw them closer to God.
How to Apply This:
- Encourage daily prayer and Scripture reading.
- Teach the significance of fasting and worship as a way to grow spiritually.
6. Encourage Community and Fellowship
Scripture Reference: Hebrews 10:24-25
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Discipleship thrives in community. Believers need one another for support, encouragement, and accountability. Fellowship is essential in strengthening our faith and building lasting relationships in Christ.
How to Apply This:
- Participate in regular church services and small group gatherings.
- Encourage others to be actively involved in the church community.
7. Develop a Heart for Service and Evangelism
Scripture Reference: Matthew 28:19-20
“Go and make disciples of all nations…”
Evangelism and service go hand in hand. As we make disciples, we must reach out to those who do not yet know Christ. Service opens doors for meaningful conversations and relationships that lead to sharing the Gospel.
How to Apply This:
- Serve in your local community and engage with people who are far from Christ.
- Be intentional about sharing the Gospel through acts of service.
8. Encourage Lifelong Learning and Growth
Scripture Reference: Philippians 3:12-14
“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.”
Making disciples is not a one-time effort; it is a lifelong journey. Disciples need continuous growth, and this growth is achieved through learning and application of God’s Word. Lifelong discipleship means never settling but always striving to become more like Christ.
How to Apply This:
- Encourage disciples to read books, attend conferences, and engage in lifelong learning.
- Remind them that spiritual growth is a continuous process.
9. Equip Disciples to Make More Disciples
Scripture Reference: Matthew 28:19-20
“Go and make disciples of all nations…”
True discipleship is about multiplication. As you disciple others, you are equipping them to make disciples themselves. Discipleship is not just about personal transformation; it’s about empowering others to do the same.
How to Apply This:
- Teach disciples how to evangelize and mentor others.
- Equip them with tools and resources to disciple others effectively.
10. Live with an Eternal Perspective
Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 4:18
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
The ultimate goal of discipleship is not just earthly success but eternal impact. Keeping an eternal perspective helps disciples stay focused on what truly matters—leading others to Christ and preparing them for eternity.
How to Apply This:
- Regularly remind your disciples of the eternal significance of their efforts.
- Encourage them to make decisions that reflect God’s Kingdom rather than earthly desires.
Conclusion
Making disciples is one of the most important callings a Christian can embrace. It requires intentional effort, a heart for others, and a commitment to teaching and living out the truth of God’s Word. By following these 10 profound ways, you will be equipped to make disciples who not only grow in their faith but also go on to disciple others, multiplying the impact of the Gospel.
Discussion & Questions:
- How has God called you to make disciples in your community?
- What are some obstacles you face in making disciples, and how can you overcome them?
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