Walking with Jesus Daily Journey - Day 13

Discipleship by Design: Following Jesus's Blueprint for Spiritual Growth

Opening Scripture

• "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher." - Luke 6:40

• "Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did." - 1 John 2:6

• "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - Matthew 28:19-20

• "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." - 1 Corinthians 11:1

Today's Reflection

Having explored how to share God's love naturally with others, we now turn to the vital process of discipleship—both our own growth in Christ and our role in helping others mature in faith. Jesus's method of developing disciples provides our perfect model for this transformative journey.

Jesus's words in Luke 6:40 reveal the ultimate goal of discipleship: conformity to His image. This isn't mere external imitation, but rather a deep inner transformation that results in living as Jesus lived. As 1 John 2:6 emphasizes, those who claim to abide in Christ must walk as He walked—following His example in thought, word, and deed. True discipleship, therefore, is about becoming like Jesus in character and conduct, allowing His life to be reproduced in us through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Consider how Jesus approached discipleship. He began with a simple invitation: "Come, follow me" (Matthew 4:19). This invitation carried with it both a promise ("I will make you fishers of men") and a process ("Come, follow"). Jesus knew that transformation happens through relationship and that true discipleship involves both being with Him and becoming like Him.

Jesus's Method of Making Disciples

Jesus's method of making disciples reveals several profound principles:

First, He invested deeply in a few to reach many. While Jesus ministered to crowds, He poured His life primarily into twelve disciples, and among them, had an even closer relationship with three (Peter, James, and John). This pattern teaches us that effective discipleship requires focused investment in specific relationships rather than trying to disciple everyone superficially.

Comprehensive Approach to Spiritual Formation

Throughout His ministry, Jesus demonstrated a comprehensive approach to spiritual formation through multiple teaching methods:

• Direct instruction (Sermon on the Mount)

• Life situations (calming the storm)

• Object lessons (washing feet)

• Parables (kingdom teachings)

• Questions (Who do you say I am?)

• Modeling (prayer life)

• Practice (sending out the seventy-two)

Each method engaged different aspects of His disciples' development, showing that spiritual growth involves our whole being—mind, heart, and hands.

Developmental Progression

Jesus's pattern of discipleship was developmental. He systematically increased His disciples' responsibilities:

1. First, they watched Him minister

2. Then, they assisted Him

3. Next, He assisted them

4. Finally, they ministered while He watched

5. Ultimately, He sent them out with full authority

This progression teaches us that discipleship is a journey, not a destination. Growth happens gradually as we take on increasing responsibility in kingdom work.

The early church continued this pattern of relational discipleship. Paul invested in Timothy, who was then instructed to invest in others: "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" (2 Timothy 2:2). This creates a multiplication effect that continues today.

Core Elements of Authentic Discipleship

Throughout Scripture, we see that authentic discipleship involves:

Growth in Knowledge

Understanding God's truth more deeply. Yet this isn't mere academic knowledge but transformative truth that changes how we live. As Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples" (John 8:31).

Character Development

Becoming more like Christ in our inner nature. Paul describes this as being "transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). This internal transformation produces external change.

Skill Development

Learning to serve effectively in God's kingdom. Just as Jesus taught His disciples practical skills like prayer, teaching, and ministering to others, we too must develop abilities that serve kingdom purposes.

Relational Growth

Learning to love God and others more deeply. Jesus said people would recognize His disciples by their love for one another (John 13:35). True discipleship always expresses itself in improved relationships.

Personal Application

Examine your own discipleship journey:

• Consider your current stage of growth. Just as Jesus's disciples progressed through various stages, where are you in your development? What's the next step in your spiritual maturity?

• Reflect on who is investing in your growth and in whom you're investing. Remember that we need both input from more mature believers and opportunities to help others grow. This dual engagement accelerates our own development.

• Think about your approach to helping others grow. Are you relying too heavily on one method (like teaching) while neglecting others (like modeling or providing practice opportunities)? Remember that Jesus used varied approaches to develop His disciples fully.

Prayer Focus

Heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of both growing in Christ and helping others grow. Thank You for patient investment in our development and for the joy of seeing others mature in faith.

Holy Spirit, help me to:

• Grow consistently in Christlikeness

• Invest deeply in others' growth

• Balance various aspects of discipleship

• Learn from more mature believers

• Guide newer believers effectively

• Create safe spaces for growth

• Maintain long-term perspective

Today's Challenge

1. Identify your next step of spiritual growth

2. List those who influence your growth and those you influence

3. Plan one specific way to invest in someone's development

4. Evaluate your growth in knowledge, character, and skills (head, heart, and hands)

5. Start a discipleship journal tracking growth insights

6. Practice one new spiritual discipline

7. Share a growth lesson with someone you're mentoring

Evening Reflection

As you end your day, consider:

• Where did I see evidence of spiritual growth today?

• How did God use me in others' development?

• What new understanding of discipleship emerged?

Closing Verse

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen." - 2 Peter 3:18

Tomorrow's Preview

Tomorrow we'll explore how walking with Jesus transforms our understanding of service and ministry, as we learn to serve others with His heart and purpose.

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