“Discipleship happens best when each person approaches their own discipleship in a way that is personalized to how God is already at work in their life.” Dana Allin
Ask yourself a few questions to get started.
Where does Jesus want me to go at this time in my life?
What is he stirring inside my heart? What is that yearning feeling all about?
What is he saying to me right now? What does he want to do in me?
As you contemplate, consider the three main categories in discipleship: Deeper in Jesus, Closer in Community, Wider in the Kingdom. Let’s call them tracks
“Lord, do you want to strengthen the foundation of my faith? Is there a specific area you want to engage with me at this time in my life? How longwould you like me to abide in over an extended period of time?”
Identity in Christ
Seek to understand how God sees you
Expose the obstacles and lies you believe about yourself
Learn to put off the old and put on the new creation in Christ
Experience the depth of being united to Jesus
Grow in grace-based spirituality
Immersion into Scripture
Study one book or one theme
Enter God’s Story through character studies
Explore how major themes fit into the grand narrative
Dig into the background of a book
Learn about the Old Testament-New Testament connections
Utilize online study tools
Theology
Experience God the Father: his character and divine attributes
Encounter God the Son: his nature, character, and mission
Embrace God the Holy Spirit: his role and activity
Learn more about Sacraments: Lord’s Supper and Baptism
Gain insight into our future hope
Glean inspiration from the historic creeds and confessions of the faith
“Lord, how can I become more missionally minded? What can I do to prepare for the next step? What do you want me to focus my attention on as you lead me? How longwould you like me to abide in over an extended period of time?”
Spiritual Gifts
Serving, hospitality
Mercy, encouragement
Helps, administration
Teaching, discipling
Wisdom, vision
Prophetic discernment
Belonging
Make a new friend
Participate in cross-generational gatherings
Bless the church by serving
Take on new challenges
Develop skills toward maturity
Kingdom Work
Make deliberate invites to church
Include new people into your circle of well-established friends
Grow in effective connecting and communicating with nonbelievers
Volunteer in relief work or other community opportunities
Break out of comfort zone (e.g., tutor English, build friendships with refugees, etc.)