Pursue Discipleship
FG LESSON & PERSONAL REFLECTION GUIDE
Based on the message: Pursue Discipleship: It's All About Relationships
By Ptr Eniong Hilario & Ptr Marc Dumo
READ Matthew 28:19-20; Matthew 4:17-19; Matthew 22:37-39
Discipleship is not just about learning or believing; it's about building strong, personal relationships with Jesus and with others. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus commands His followers to go and make disciples of all nations, emphasizing that discipleship is the core of His mission for us. While sharing the gospel is an important starting point, true discipleship goes deeper. It's not just about getting people to believe in Jesus, but about guiding them into a lasting relationship with Him and each other.
At its heart, discipleship is about relationship. Jesus didn’t just want people to follow Him from a distance; He wanted to form close, personal bonds with His disciples. In Matthew 4:19, Jesus calls Simon Peter and Andrew to follow Him and become “fishers of men.” This call includes both repentance—a transformation of heart and mind—and the invitation to walk in a close relationship with Jesus. Discipleship, as Jesus exemplified, is not a program; it's about being in a deep relationship with Him, one built on love, trust, and shared experiences.
In building relationships, there are three key areas to focus on. First, we pursue a relationship with Jesus. Jesus called His disciples to follow Him, and through their time together, they grew closer to Him. Whether through teaching, prayer, or shared meals, Jesus built deep connections with His disciples. We are invited to do the same—spend time with Jesus, grow in understanding, and develop a personal relationship with Him. Second, we pursue relationships with fellow believers. Discipleship thrives in community. As Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us, we are to encourage one another, meet together, and build each other up in faith. In these relationships, we learn, grow, and help each other stay on the path of discipleship.
Finally, discipleship also involves relationships with unbelievers. While it's easy to isolate ourselves in a Christian bubble, Jesus calls us to build relationships with those who don’t yet know Him. It is through these relationships that we have the opportunity to share the gospel and invite others to become His disciples. We must be intentional about reaching out, building genuine connections, and being a light to those around us.
The pursuit of relationships in discipleship leads to growth, accountability, and the expansion of God's kingdom. We grow through our connections with others, learning from other Christians. Relationships help us stay accountable, challenge us to become better, and provide the support we need. Ultimately, discipleship isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about walking together in faith, encouraging one another, and making more disciples. Keep pursuing relationships—with Jesus, with fellow believers, and with those who need to hear the good news. This is the heart of discipleship.
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