The Heart of Discipleship is Being an Example
Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. – Philippians 3:17
Foundation – Essential Building Blocks of a Disciple
John 15:5 (ESV) – “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
Discipleship begins with the heart. Jesus looked for those who were humble, submissive, and open to being transformed by God’s Word and prayer. This section focuses on cultivating inner qualities such as submission, humbleness, sanctification, devotion to Scripture, and prayer as the foundation for a disciple’s life. Through practical examples, learners see what it means to yield to God’s authority and live in daily dependence on Him. These foundational qualities shape the soil of a disciple’s heart, preparing it to bear lasting fruit. Without them, spiritual growth is shallow and unstable.
Commitment – A Willingness to Follow at Any Cost
Luke 9:23 (ESV) – “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Discipleship is a lifelong commitment. In a world that values comfort and convenience, Jesus calls His followers to deny themselves and carry their cross. This section helps believers reflect on what full devotion to Christ looks like. They are to examine their willingness to obey Christ no matter the cost. In an age of casual Christianity, this curriculum boldly re-centers the call to wholehearted devotion, helping believers count the cost and anchor their lives in enduring faith.
Action – Living Out Your Faith
James 2:17 (ESV) – “So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”
Faith without action is dead. The book of James reminds us that genuine belief always results in visible obedience. This section equips disciples to live out their identity in Christ by demonstrating Christlike love in everyday life, obeying God’s commands, and bearing fruit. It bridges the gap between belief and behavior, encouraging disciples to walk as Jesus walked.
Character – Living by the Fruit of the Spirit
Galatians 5:22–23 (ESV) – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…
Discipleship is not only about what we do, but who we are becoming. The Holy Spirit produces Christlike character in believers, transforming attitudes and responses. This section emphasizes that spiritual maturity is not measured by knowledge alone but by the fruit evident in a believer’s life. A disciple whose character mirrors Christ’s becomes a living testimony of the gospel.
Purpose – Living for God’s Glory and Mission
Matthew 28:19–20 (ESV) – Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Every disciple has a calling: to glorify God, do good works, and make disciples. This final section invites believers to embrace their God-given purpose and challenges them to move beyond personal growth toward lasting impact in the world. Worship, service, and evangelism are not optional add-ons; they lie at the heart of a disciple’s mission. Discipleship by Example helps participants recognize that true discipleship is never self-focused but always directed outward, shaped by a desire to reflect Christ and reach others.
