Following Jesus: A Casual Guide to Discipleship

Hey there! Have you ever wondered what it means to really follow Jesus? The Bible is packed with verses and stories that show us how to live as His disciples—people who grow closer to Him and live out His love every day. Let’s break it down with some key scriptures and examples, making it relatable.

Where’s Discipleship in the Bible?

Discipleship isn’t just a churchy word—it’s about walking with Jesus, learning from Him, and becoming more like Him. The Bible gives us practical teachings and real-life examples of what that looks like.

What Does It Mean to Be Jesus’ Disciple?

Here’s the vibe for following Jesus straight from scripture:

• Put God first, and the rest will follow. “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
• Don’t blend in with the world. “Don’t conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2 (NIV)
• Stay steady and keep serving. “Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)
• Serve like Jesus did. “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 (NIV)
• Give with a happy heart. “Whoever sows generously will also reap generously… God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (NIV)
• Spread the word. “Go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

Growing to Be More Like Jesus

Being a disciple means growing in character to reflect Jesus’ heart. Here’s how the Bible says to do it:

• Love like He loves. “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34-35 (NIV)
• Put others first. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition… consider others better than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)
• Steer clear of bad stuff. “Abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.” 1 Peter 2:11 (NIV)
• Keep it real with God. “I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.” Acts 24:16 (NIV)
• Trust God fully. “Without faith it is impossible to please God… he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)
• Keep doing good. “Don’t become weary in doing good… do good to all people.” Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV)

Discipleship in Action

The Bible doesn’t just tell us what to do—it shows us through real people and communities:

• Jesus and His Crew: Jesus mentored His disciples big time. Check out Matthew 4:18-22 (calling the first disciples), Mark 4 (teaching through parables), Luke 11:1-11 (teaching prayer), and John 15 (the vine and branches).
• The Early Church: They nailed community—sharing, praying, and growing together. See Acts 2:42-47.
• Paul and Timothy: Paul was like a spiritual dad to Timothy. Their story pops in Acts 16:1-5, 1 Timothy, and 2 Timothy.

Wrapping It Up

Following Jesus means making Him your first priority each day. Loving other people, especially those closest to you and those who challenge your love the most, is required of all disciples. Growing in faith means two things: coming to understand the astonishing and life-changing reality of who Jesus is and what He has done and is doing, and living in light of that understanding.