“And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men””
Let’s get Started
The Plan
The plan is straightforward. Jesus began with the words, “Follow me”, that’s your starting point as you learn what it means to follow Jesus and become his disciples.
A disciple is a “follower of Jesus” who imitates Him in His way of living and loving God. Discipleship emphasizes nurturing a close relationship with Jesus to become more like Him. The gospel is designed to transform us. It’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about pursuing a relationship with Him.
This guide is a helpful tool for your journey to becoming a follower of Jesus. It won't make you a disciple but can help you grow into one.
Preparation
Before you start, you will need to establish 5 things to help you on your way.
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Salvation is based on God’s terms, not ours. Faith means trusting in Jesus alone for salvation and not trusting in yourself.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith —and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
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Develop a prayer lifestyle. Prayer is your conversation with God, breathing in Heaven's air. Developing prayer as a lifestyle is good for your soul.
“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” - Luke 11:1
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Read and obey your Bible every day. As you read and study your Bible you learn more about who God is and what he thinks of you.
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” - Joshua 1:8
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Community is where discipleship happens. We serve Jesus together and find healing through relationships in small groups and Sunday gatherings.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another —and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”- Hebrews 10:24-25
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Learn how to expand his Kingdom. Becoming fluent in the gospel—makes telling others what Jesus has done for you easy and natural.
“Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.”- Mark 5:19-20
First Steps
Here are seven steps to begin your journey of following Jesus and becoming more like Him. Go at your own pace; note that some steps may take longer. That is okay, there is no rush!
We recommend finding someone to walk with you, as it's a more rewarding journey doing it together. Being discipled means having someone to guide you in following Jesus by teaching you to study the Bible, pray, and share your faith. Then, you can help others become disciples too.
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Salvation
The great news is that you have a fresh start, a new beginning. A new life and a new family. What does this all mean?
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Kingship
Jesus is called Lord 100 times in the Book of Acts, which also means King. Jesus is your King, the one in charge.
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Repentance
Driving the wrong way is risky. We need to turn around (repent) and follow Jesus. Repentance is the path that leads us to Jesus and Father God.
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Baptisms
Peter tells the crowd how they should respond to the Gospel; repent, be baptised & receive. Here we unpack two baptisms, water and in Holy Spirit.
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Devotion
If we look at the early church it was vibrant and full of life because they devoted themselves to God. Their loyalty was expressed in their actions.
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Belonging
God designed your need to belong to be met in the community. You are not meant to follow Jesus alone, joining a Church & being in a Life Group will help you grow along the way.
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Discipleship
The goal of discipleship is fellowship with Jesus, and becoming like Him. This isn't about being perfect but about pursuing Jesus who is perfect.