Pursue Them

This past week, I’ve been reminded and challenged about the importance of discipleship.

Discipleship is learning from mature believers how to better live out the commands of God. In Matthew 28:19–20, we are given two important commands from Jesus: to preach the gospel to the lost and to teach the saved how to follow God's commands. Much of our ministry can be divided into these two categories: evangelism and discipleship.

Our Calling: Evangelism and Discipleship

Last week, Pastor Derek wrote an article about doing our job as the church body. We are called to edify one another by practicing the “one anothers.” Discipleship is an integral part of our commitment to one another—and it’s not just the job of a pastor. Every believer is called to participate in this process. Each of us is commanded both to be discipled and to disciple others.

Conceptually, the discipleship process makes sense. But the question becomes: How do I do this practically?

Take the First Step

This process begins with pursuit. The mature in faith should pursue the younger to teach, love, and serve them. Likewise, the younger should pursue the mature to learn from, love, and serve them. Either side can reach out and begin that conversation, but too often, both sides sit and wait for the other to make the first move.

This isn’t Prom, y’all. Just take the initiative—ask someone to coffee, lunch, a run, or something that creates space to teach and learn.

Teach with Your Life

Discipleship is both teaching AND setting an example.

In 1 Thessalonians 1:6–7, we see discipleship in action between Paul and the church in Thessalonica:

“And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.”

The Thessalonians didn’t just listen to what was taught—they watched the imperfect obedience of Paul and the other missionaries. In turn, they became an example to believers throughout the region.

Be Real, Not Perfect

When we disciple, it’s vital to teach the Word of God. But we must also show what it looks like living out that teaching in our everyday lives. Our example won’t be perfect—but no one expects it to be. Even in our mistakes and struggles, we can model humility and repentance.

Being an example requires the mature believer to invite younger brothers and sisters into their lives. They need to see how we face difficulties with faith, how our love for God goes beyond a Sunday smile, and how we live out His commands in a fallen world.

Intentional > Accidental

Discipleship isn’t just hanging out to watch the game on Saturday—though moments of growth can happen there. And it’s not just being friends with someone younger and calling it mentorship. It takes intentional love, service, and teaching.

You don’t need a set time each week or a specific book to go through—but those structures can help. Scheduling time together shows that we value the relationship. A book or guide can keep conversations focused and fruitful (rather than awkward or surface-level—we’ve all been there, right?). Set up some structure in your discipleship relationships to foster intentionality. Let organic fellowship and care grow from that foundation.

Start Today

If you are a follower of Christ, you can begin the discipleship process today.

Are you a mature brother or sister? Reach out to someone younger in the faith and start a conversation.

Are you still growing and learning? Reach out to someone more mature in the faith and do the same.

If you’re unsure where to start or who to talk to, reach out to our pastoral staff. We would love to help you take that next step.

Serving together,

Tyler Boggess