Discipleship:

Discipleship in Community 

Discipleship is the call of every Christian—not just to believe in Jesus, but to follow Him closely in our daily lives. It’s about learning from His teachings and living them out, whether at work, home, or in everyday interactions. Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 4:19 was simple: “Follow Me.” But that invitation carries a lifelong commitment to grow, serve, and become more like Him. 

The Purpose of Discipleship 

Discipleship isn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about transformation. Our spiritual growth is often deepened by walking alongside others. Engaging with a smaller community of believers, like a Harvest Group, offers the ideal space for this kind of growth. It allows us to learn from one another’s experiences, share struggles, and explore God’s Word together. Jesus taught His followers not just through His words, but through actions, modeling love, service, and faithful living—lessons we can better apply when we share life with others. 

Living Out Discipleship Daily 

Discipleship is something we live out every day, and surrounding ourselves with others who are committed to that journey helps us stay the course. In John 15:5, Jesus says, “I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” Staying connected to Christ is easier when we regularly engage with fellow believers who can encourage us, study Scripture with us, and pray for us. Together, we can help each other live out the teachings of Jesus in our everyday choices—whether it’s showing love, offering forgiveness, or stepping up to serve. 

The Cost of Discipleship in Community 

Jesus was clear that following Him comes with a cost. In Luke 9:23, He says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” The journey of discipleship requires sacrifice—a daily decision to put Jesus first, even when it’s hard. Having others around us who understand that cost can make a big difference. Sharing life with people who support us and hold us accountable helps us stay committed to Christ, even when it’s challenging. 

Are You Ready to Join a Small Group? 

Discipleship is a lifelong journey, and joining a small group can be a powerful part of that process. Whether you’re new to following Jesus or have been walking with Him for years, small groups provide a space to grow, learn, and build relationships. At Harvest, we encourage you to find a group where you can be supported, challenged, and transformed in your walk with Christ. In these communities, you’ll find not only spiritual growth but also the strength and encouragement that come from walking this journey with others.