Helping someone else follow Jesus—what we call disciple-making—is the core mission of every believer. While it might feel intimidating or like something only pastors do, Jesus designed it to be a natural part of our lives.
At its heart, disciple-making is a conversation that leads to transformation. Here are the five essentials to keep in mind as you help others pursue God.
1. Commit to a Real Relationship
Discipleship isn’t a classroom lecture; it’s a relationship. You cannot effectively mentor someone if you don’t genuinely care about them. Jesus didn’t just give his disciples a syllabus; he ate with them, traveled with them, and loved them. If there is no connection, there is no influence.
John 15:12-17 “This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends…”
2. Share the Right Truth at the Right Time
It is easy to get excited and want to dump every theological concept you know onto a new believer. However, effective disciple-making requires discernment. Pay attention to the specific struggles or questions the other person is facing. Don’t force your favorite topics; instead, listen to the Holy Spirit to know what truth they need to hear today.
1 Corinthians 2:14 “But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it…”
3. Just Do Your Part, Not God’s
One of the biggest burdens in discipleship is feeling responsible for the other person’s spiritual growth. The truth is, you can’t make someone pursue God. Your job is to be a faithful guide, to show up, and to walk alongside them. God is the one who changes hearts. If they stall out or walk away, keep loving them, but remember that their journey is between them and the Lord.
4. Point It All to Jesus
The goal of making a disciple isn’t to make them a “better person” or a “mini-version of you.” The goal is to help them meet and follow Jesus. Every conversation, every piece of advice, and every study should ultimately point back to the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. He is the one who saves and sustains.
5. Pray, Pray, Pray
You cannot mentor someone effectively without talking to God about them. Prayer is where the heavy lifting happens. Keep a prayer journal and make a habit of praying for the specific needs of the people you are mentoring. Better yet, let them know you are praying for them—it builds trust and reminds them they aren’t alone.
The Takeaway
Disciple-making is simply one person helping another take their next step toward Jesus. By focusing on relationships, sharing timely truth, trusting God with the results, pointing to Jesus, and staying grounded in prayer, you can fulfill the Great Commission right where you are.
