Discipleship in the UMC

Introduction to the Series

GROW Framework: Grounded in Scripture • Reasons We Believe • Obedience in Action • Walk It Out

Welcome to this new discipleship series built around recent sermons and the calling of the Christian life. This first lesson serves as the foundation. Before we explore themes like Love Boldly, Serve Joyfully, and Lead Courageously, we begin with one central question:

What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ?

At its heart, discipleship is not merely attending church, agreeing with beliefs, or admiring Jesus from a distance. A disciple is a learner, follower, and apprentice of Christ—someone who is being changed by Him and sent by Him.

In the United Methodist tradition:

To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

That means discipleship is personal, communal, and missional.

Come and See

Jesus still calls ordinary people in ordinary places.

He stepped into Peter’s boat on an ordinary workday. He still steps into everyday lives today—into homes, workplaces, burdens, schedules, and relationships.

G — Grounded in Scripture

Primary Scriptures

Luke 5:1–11
Ephesians 4:1–16

Luke 5:1–11 — The Call of the First Disciples

Jesus teaches from Peter’s boat, then tells exhausted fishermen to launch into deep water. They obey and experience abundance. Then Jesus says:

“Do not fear, from now on you will be catching people.”

They leave everything and follow Him.

Truths from Luke 5

• Jesus meets people in everyday life
• Jesus often calls us beyond comfort
• Obedience may come before understanding
• Following Jesus requires surrender

Ephesians 4:1–16 — Growing as the Body of Christ

Paul urges believers to live worthy of their calling with humility, patience, love, and peace. He teaches that Christ gives gifts to the church so the whole body grows into maturity.

Truths from Ephesians 4

• We are one body in Christ
• Every believer has value and purpose
• Spiritual maturity is the goal
• Truth and love must stay together

R — Reasons We Believe

Why discipleship matters

1. Jesus did not only call converts—He called disciples.
Salvation is the doorway. Discipleship is the journey.

2. Growth is part of God’s purpose.
God loves us as we are, but He also intends to transform us into the likeness of Christ.

3. Faith was never meant to be lived alone.
Christian growth happens through worship, study, prayer, fellowship, and service.

4. The church is a training ground, not merely a gathering place.
We gather to worship, but we are also equipped to serve.

O — Obedience in Action

What disciples do

Heart

• Love God fully
• Desire holiness
• Cultivate humility

Mind

• Learn Scripture
• Grow in wisdom
• Discern truth

Hands

• Serve others
• Use spiritual gifts
• Share hope

Simple next steps

Choose one:

• Join a Bible study or Sunday School class
• Begin a daily Scripture reading habit
• Volunteer in a ministry
• Pray intentionally each morning
• Encourage someone in the church this week
• Invite someone to worship: Come and See

W — Walk It Out

Reflection Questions

What is a disciple?

Possible answers:

• A follower of Jesus
• A learner being changed by Christ
• Someone who obeys Jesus in daily life

Where is Jesus calling me deeper?

Possible answers:

• Trusting Him with worry
• Serving where I feel unqualified
• Growing beyond comfort
• Taking faith more seriously

How can I grow this season?

Possible answers:

• Study the Bible consistently
• Reconnect with church community
• Use my gifts
• Practice prayer and obedience

Key Definitions

Disciple – A learner and follower who is formed by Jesus.

Sanctification – The lifelong process of becoming more like Christ through the Holy Spirit.

Unity – Spirit-created oneness in Christ, not sameness.

Spiritual Gifts – Abilities given by God for serving others and building up the church.

Series Preview

This introduction lays the foundation. The lessons ahead will explore practical discipleship themes drawn from Scripture and the Christian life.

Next Lesson: Love Boldly

How do disciples love God, love neighbor, love enemy, and live with courageous compassion in a divided world?

Weekly Prayer

Lord Jesus,
Step into the ordinary places of my life.
Call me deeper than comfort.
Teach me to grow in heart, mind, and action.
Use my gifts for Your glory.
Make me a true disciple who helps others come and see.
Amen.

Invitation

You do not need to have it all figured out to begin.

Jesus still calls ordinary people.