The Foundation of Discipleship: The Power of Knowing
Discipleship is a transformative journey that begins with a profound understanding of our faith. At its core, “Knowing” is essential for building a strong foundation in discipleship. It’s not just about intellectual comprehension but about a deep, heart-changing grasp of the truths that shape our lives. Let’s explore twelve crucial aspects that every disciple needs to know, inspired by Jesus and His followers, and see how we can apply these principles in our own lives and in the lives of those we disciple.
1. Knowing God’s Word
Understanding the Bible is fundamental to our faith journey. Jesus demonstrated this by frequently quoting Scripture to teach and confront challenges, such as when He overcame temptation in the desert (Matthew 4:1-11). As disciple makers, we should prioritize regular Bible study and encourage others to engage deeply with Scripture. Organize study groups, offer resources for in-depth learning, and create a culture where questions about the Bible are welcomed and explored. This foundational knowledge helps disciples navigate life with wisdom and direction.
Scriptural Insight:
- Matthew 4:4: “Man shall not live on bread alon, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”
2. Knowing God’s Character
To truly relate to God, we must grasp His character—His love, justice, and mercy. Jesus revealed God’s nature through His actions, showing love, mercy, and forgiveness (John 1:14). As disciple makers, we can help others understand God’s attributes by sharing personal experiences of His goodness and encouraging reflection on His nature through prayer and study. Demonstrating these qualities in our interactions helps others see God’s character embodied in real life.
Spiritual Insight:
- 1 John 4:8: “God is love.”
- Exodus 34:6: “The Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”
3. Knowing God’s Will
Understanding God’s will provides purpose and direction. Jesus lived in perfect alignment with God’s will and taught His followers to pray for it (Matthew 6:10). As disciple makers, guide others in seeking God’s will through prayer, reflection, and discernment. Help them set spiritual goals that align with God’s purposes, and share testimonies of how seeking His will has impacted your life. This process helps disciples make decisions that are in harmony with God’s plans.
Scriptural Insight:
- John 6:40: For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
4. Knowing Christ
To truly follow Jesus, we must go beyond knowing His teachings and deeply connect with His person. Knowing Christ means experiencing His love, grace, and presence in our daily lives, and recognizing Him as both Lord and Savior. It involves a personal relationship where His character shapes our own. Embracing Him as Lord means acknowledging His authority over our lives, while recognizing Him as Savior involves trusting in His redemption and grace. This intimate relationship with Jesus transforms us, empowers us to live out our faith authentically, and aligns our lives with His divine purpose.
Scriptural Insight:
- Acts 2:36: “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”
- Acts 4:12: “There is no one else who has the power to save us, for there is only one name to whom God has given authority by which we must experience salvation, the name of Jesus.”
5. Knowing the Gospel
The Gospel is the essence of Christian faith. Jesus preached the Gospel of the Kingdom, calling for repentance and announcing salvation (Mark 1:15). As disciple makers, ensure that every aspect of your teaching is grounded in the Gospel. Share the core message of salvation regularly, and encourage disciples to articulate and share their understanding of the Gospel with others. This reinforces the centrality of the Gospel in their lives and equips them to spread it effectively.
Scriptural Insight:
- Romans 1:16: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.”
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day.”
6. Knowing the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in guiding and empowering us. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to His disciples as a guide and helper (John 14:26). In discipleship, teach about the Holy Spirit’s role in providing comfort, guidance, and empowerment. Encourage practices like listening to the Spirit’s promptings through prayer and discernment, and facilitate experiences where disciples can recognize and respond to the Spirit’s work in their lives.
Scriptural Insight:
- John 14:26: “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things.”
- Galatians 5:22-23: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
7. Knowing Christian Community
Community is vital for support and growth. Jesus formed a close-knit group of disciples, providing love, support, and accountability (John 13:34-35). As disciple makers, foster a sense of community within your group. Create opportunities for fellowship, mutual support, and accountability. Organize group activities, prayer meetings, and social gatherings that build strong relationships and encourage spiritual growth.
Scriptural Insight:
- Hebrews 10:24-25: “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together.”
- Acts 2:42: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
8. Knowing Spiritual Disciplines
Spiritual disciplines like prayer, fasting, and meditation are essential for deepening our relationship with God. Jesus practiced these disciplines regularly and taught His disciples to do the same (Matthew 6:6, 9). Incorporate spiritual disciplines into your discipleship process by modeling these practices and encouraging others to develop their own routines. Provide resources and guidance on how to integrate these disciplines into daily life.
Scriptural Insight:
- Matthew 6:6: “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”
9. Knowing Christian Ethics and Living
Living according to Christian ethics reflects our faith in everyday life. Jesus modeled ethical living, demonstrating love, humility, and integrity (Luke 10:27). As disciple makers, teach and exemplify Christian ethics in your interactions. Encourage disciples to apply biblical principles in their decisions and relationships. Share practical examples and offer guidance on living out Christian values in various aspects of life.
Scriptural Insight:
- Colossians 3:12-14: “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
- Matthew 25:35-40: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat…”
10. Knowing Spiritual Warfare
Understanding spiritual warfare equips us to stand firm against spiritual opposition. Jesus confronted and overcame spiritual forces, demonstrating His authority over evil (Luke 4:33-36). Teach about spiritual warfare by discussing its realities and equipping disciples with strategies for resisting temptation and spiritual attacks. Encourage practices like prayer and scripture memorization to fortify their spiritual defenses.
Scriptural Insight:
- Ephesians 6:12: “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world.”
- 2 Corinthians 10:4: “The weapons we fight with have divine power to demolish strongholds.”
11. Knowing the Kingdom of God
Understanding the Kingdom of God guides our actions and purpose. Jesus preached about the Kingdom and lived out its principles (Mark 1:15). Teach about the Kingdom of God by highlighting its values, such as justice, mercy, and righteousness. Encourage disciples to work towards the advancement of the Kingdom in their communities and personal lives.
Scriptural Insight:
- Matthew 6:33: “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
- Luke 4:43: “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also.”
12. Knowing End Times and Eschatology
Understanding end times provides hope and shapes our current living. Jesus spoke about His return and the fulfillment of God’s promises (Revelation 21:1). Educate disciples about eschatology to instill a sense of hope and urgency. Discuss how the anticipation of Christ’s return should influence their daily lives and spiritual practices.
Scriptural Insight:
- Revelation 21:1: “I saw a new heaven and a new earth.”
- Titus 2:13: “While we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Conclusion
The “Know” stage of discipleship is about more than just acquiring information; it’s about deeply understanding and embodying these key aspects of our faith. By embracing these principles—God’s Word, character, will, Jesus’ teachings, the Gospel, the Holy Spirit, Christian community, spiritual disciplines, ethics, spiritual warfare, the Kingdom of God, and eschatology—we build a solid foundation for our spiritual journey and equip ourselves and others to live out our faith effectively.
As you reflect on these areas, consider how you can deepen your knowledge of these aspects of faith. How can you apply these insights in your daily life and in the lives of those you disciple? By focusing on knowing these essential elements, we strengthen our discipleship and impact the world with the love and truth of Christ.
