Series Introduction
GROW Framework: Grounded in Scripture • Reasons We Believe • Obedience in Action • Walk It Out
Welcome to the Discipleship in the UMC series. This collection of lessons, reels, reflections, and practical next steps is designed to help us understand what it means to follow Jesus Christ with our heart, mind, and action.
Discipleship is more than attending church. It is more than agreeing with Christian beliefs. It is a lifelong journey of learning Christ, becoming like Christ, and serving in the mission of Christ.
In the United Methodist tradition, we often say:
To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
That mission reminds us that discipleship is personal, communal, and outward-facing. Christ changes us—and then works through us.
This series will explore how disciples grow in faith, love boldly, serve joyfully, lead courageously, and become steady witnesses in everyday life.
Come and See
Jesus still calls ordinary people in ordinary places.
He called fishermen by the water.
He called tax collectors at work.
He called doubters, seekers, servants, and sinners.
He still calls today.
Come and see. Come and grow. Come and follow.
Lesson 1: The Call to Follow
G — Grounded in Scripture
Primary Scriptures
Luke 5:1–11
Ephesians 4:1–16
Luke 5:1–11 — Jesus Calls the First Disciples
Jesus teaches from Simon Peter’s boat. Then He tells weary fishermen who caught nothing all night:
“Put out into the deep water, and let down your nets for a catch.”
Peter obeys. The nets overflow. Then Jesus says:
“Do not fear, from now on you will be catching people.”
They leave everything and follow Him.
Key Truths from Luke 5
- Jesus meets us in ordinary life
- Jesus often calls us beyond comfort
- Obedience sometimes comes before understanding
- Following Jesus requires surrender
Ephesians 4:1–16 — Growing as the Body of Christ
Paul urges believers to walk worthy of their calling with humility, patience, peace, and love. Christ gives gifts to the church so the whole body may mature.
Key Truths from Ephesians 4
- We are one body in Christ
- Every believer has purpose
- Spiritual maturity is the goal
- Truth and love must stay together
- Every part matters
R — Reasons We Believe
Why discipleship matters
- Jesus did not merely call admirers—He called followers.
Faith begins with grace, but discipleship continues through surrender.
- Growth is part of God’s plan.
God loves us where we are, but He also intends to transform us into the likeness of Christ.
- We are stronger together.
Christian life was never meant to be lived in isolation. Worship, study, prayer, fellowship, and service help form mature disciples.
- The church is a sending place.
We gather to worship, but we are equipped to serve the world in Jesus’ name.
O — Obedience in Action
What disciples do
Heart (Piety)
- Love God deeply
- Practice prayer
- Seek holiness
- Trust Christ daily
Mind (Study)
- Learn Scripture
- Grow in wisdom
- Discern truth
- Understand faith
Hands (Action)
- Serve others
- Use spiritual gifts
- Encourage the church
- Share hope in daily life
Simple Next Steps
Choose one this week:
- Join a Bible study or Sunday School class
- Begin reading one Gospel chapter each day
- Volunteer in a ministry
- Invite someone to worship
- Encourage someone in need
- Pray each morning: “Lord, lead me deeper.”
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 seriously
How can I strengthen the body of Christ?
Possible answers:
- Use my gifts
- Encourage others
- Join community life
- Speak truth in love
- Serve faithfully
Key Definitions
Disciple
A learner and follower who is formed by Jesus.
Sanctification
The lifelong process by which the Holy Spirit makes believers more like Christ.
Spiritual Gifts
Abilities given by God to build up others and strengthen the church.
Unity
Spirit-created oneness in Christ, not sameness.
Watch the Reels
Go Deeper
A reflection on trusting Jesus beyond comfort.
The Call
This is a short video reel- 42 seconds.
Series Preview
Next Lesson: Love Boldly
How disciples love God, neighbor, enemy, and community with courageous grace.
Weekly Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for calling ordinary people.
Lead me deeper than comfort.
Grow me in heart, mind, and action.
Use my gifts for Your glory.
Help me follow You faithfully and help others come and see.
Amen.
Invitation
You do not need to have everything figured out to begin.
Jesus still calls.
