What is Discipleship & why is it important?
‘Discipleship’. A term frequently used in the church but what is it? We know it’s something that the first 12 Disciples did, but should it mean something to us today? We understand we’re supposed to also do it? Right? But how and more importantly, why?
The Greek word for disciple is ‘mathētḗs’, meaning ‘one who follows another for the purpose of learning.’ Taking this, discipleship in its simplest form is following Jesus to intentionally learn from Him, and then showing others how to become more like Him. A journey we are all on.
Taking this, discipleship in its simplest form is following Jesus to intentionally learn from Him, and then showing others how to become more like Him. A journey we are all on.
But is showing others how to become like Jesus an option or even just another ‘ministry’?
Matthew 28:19 (also known as ‘The Great Commission’) tells us we are to ‘go and make disciples of all nations.’ The command goes beyond making believers. The commission is to make disciples, who make disciples.
Where do we start? To make a disciple, I must first be a disciple. The life of Jesus demonstrated how our lives should be lived out.
A life lived with intention. Intentionally growing in my relationship with God, intentional about building relationships in my life and as I grow, being intentional with people who God places in my life to help them do the same.
Many churches have great youth ministry programmes. But are we, the church, willing to explore the fruit of these programmes? Are our programmes providing a fun time or are they making disciples? Are these programmes modelling how to grow a relationship with God? Is there a more practical element to it than simply more Bible study?
What does discipleship look like for a degree student?
Students at Reign Ministries will learn all about discipleship. They will learn how to be a disciple and in turn learn how to disciple others. Working alongside our leaders and mentors our students will learn how to grow in their own relationship with God helping them to establish and grow in intentional relationships. They will learn better communication skills through listening and encouraging others to grow in their walk with God.
What methods are used to teach students to disciple other students?
Our students in year one will learn about how Jesus modeled discipleship. This will be done with our comprehensive ‘Discipleship Pack’. Alongside these teachings, each student will be part of a ‘cluster group’ where they will have the opportunity to implement what they’ve learned. During our conference weeks, students will have the opportunity to share their experiences. hear encouraging testimonies, and pray for each other on this journey of discipleship.
Discipleship is a lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus, and helping others on that same journey. Our students, once they finish the degree, are well trained with established patterns and a lifestyle to continue this for the rest of their lives.
Alongside these teachings, each student will be part of a ‘cluster group’ where they will have the opportunity to implement what they’ve learned.
Categories: Articles, Youth Ministry Degree Course
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