Discipleship Leads to Living Like You Mean It
This Sunday, as part of our Growing Together series, we explored the second key area of our journey as a church family: Discipleship. Martin O’Brien reminded us that discipleship isn’t just a church word — it’s an invitation from Jesus to live a life that truly matters. A life of purpose, intention, and impact. Most of us long for that kind of life, yet it’s easy to drift into simply surviving, reacting, or coasting spiritually. But Jesus didn’t call us to drift — He called us to follow.
Discipleship is the journey of learning who Jesus is and shaping our lives around Him. It happens through Scripture, prayer, teaching, and walking alongside one another in community. It’s the difference between merely existing and truly living. To follow Jesus is to live awake — aligned with God’s heart and intentional about the life we’re building. Discipleship bridges the gap between believing in Jesus and becoming like Him.
We looked at four powerful ways discipleship shapes our lives. First, discipleship brings direction. When Jesus says, “Come, follow me,” it’s a simple yet radical call. The first disciples left their nets and stepped into a new way of living because they wanted more. Following Jesus moves us from spectators to participants. Living like we mean it begins with a simple yes — choosing to follow where He leads.
Second, discipleship brings transformation. Jesus doesn’t just call us — He forms us. Spiritual growth doesn’t happen by accident. We don’t drift into maturity; we grow intentionally. As we follow Jesus’ teachings and walk closely with Him, He shapes our character and transforms our hearts. The question becomes not whether change is possible, but whether we’re willing to be formed.
Third, discipleship brings connection. We were never meant to grow alone. The early church devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, and shared life together. Discipleship flourishes in community, where we are known, encouraged, and challenged. Real growth requires real relationships. When we step out of isolation and into community, we create space for God to do deep work in us.
Finally, discipleship brings purpose. Jesus told His disciples He would make them “fishers of people.” He gave them direction, transformed their lives, rooted them in community, and then sent them with purpose. Discipleship always leads outward. Our gifts matter. Our stories matter. Our presence matters. We are here on purpose, for a purpose — to bless others and make a difference.
At its heart, discipleship is about becoming more like Jesus. Not just believing in Him, but living in a way that reflects Him. It’s choosing a life that is awake, intentional, and full of meaning. As we continue this journey together, may we respond to the invitation afresh — not just to live, but to live like we mean it.