What does it mean to make a disciple?

The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, is a cornerstone of Christian faith and practice: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” But what does it truly mean to make a disciple?

1. Leading Others to Follow Christ

At its core, making a disciple begins with leading someone to Christ. This is more than just sharing the Gospel; it’s about living in such a way that others see Christ through you. In Matthew 4:19, Jesus says, “Come, follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people.” The invitation is to follow Christ first and foremost, and as a result, others will be drawn to follow Him as well.

Making a disciple starts with the call to repentance and the decision to follow Jesus. In Luke 9:23, Jesus tells His disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” This means that becoming a disciple involves a daily commitment to living for Christ, surrendering our own desires, and embracing the life He calls us to live.

2. Teaching and Mentoring

Once someone decides to follow Jesus, the process of discipleship involves teaching and mentoring. In the Great Commission, Jesus emphasizes the importance of “teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20). Discipleship is not merely about knowledge transfer; it’s about transformation through obedience to God’s Word.

In John 8:31-32, Jesus says, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” A disciple is someone who learns from Jesus, holds to His teachings, and experiences the freedom that comes from living in the truth. As disciple-makers, we are called to guide others in understanding and applying the teachings of Christ in their daily lives.

3. Modeling Christlike Behavior

Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, provides a powerful example of what it means to make a disciple. He writes, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Discipleship involves modeling Christlike behavior so that others can see and imitate it. As disciple-makers, we are called to live out the character of Christ—showing love, humility, patience, and grace.

Jesus Himself modeled this approach during His earthly ministry. He didn’t just tell His disciples what to do; He showed them by His own actions. In John 13:15, after washing the disciples' feet, Jesus says, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” Making disciples means being an example of Christlike service and love in our communities and beyond.

4. Walking in Relationship

Discipleship is not a one-time event; it is a lifelong journey that happens within the context of relationships. In Acts 2:42, we see the early church living out discipleship in community: “They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” This verse highlights the importance of fellowship, teaching, and prayer as vital elements of discipleship.

To make disciples, we must walk alongside others, building relationships that encourage growth in Christ. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” True discipleship is about mutual encouragement, accountability, and growing together in faith.

5. Empowering Others to Make Disciples

Finally, making a disciple means empowering others to make disciples themselves. The cycle of discipleship is not complete until the one being discipled becomes a disciple-maker. Paul captures this concept in 2 Timothy 2:2: “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”

Discipleship multiplies when those we disciple go on to disciple others. This is how the church grows and the kingdom of God advances. It’s a process of empowerment, where each disciple is equipped to continue the mission of making more disciples.

Now What?

Making a disciple is about more than just sharing the Gospel—it’s about leading others to follow Christ, teaching and mentoring them in His ways, modeling Christlike behavior, walking in relationship, and empowering them to make disciples of their own. As followers of Jesus, we are all called to this great mission, trusting that He is with us always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:20).

Let us embrace the call to make disciples with passion and commitment, knowing that through our obedience, lives will be transformed and God’s kingdom will be advanced.