Discipleship According to the Scriptures

If you’re a believer, then, like me, Jesus has personally invited you to follow Him, to walk in His footsteps, and to share His love with others. This daily journey, described as discipleship according to the scriptures, is about following the example of Jesus’ disciples—building a close friendship with Him and fulfilling a shared mission.

That might sound daunting. So, let’s break down Biblical discipleship into its five main characteristics.

Scriptural Principles of Discipleship

The Call to Follow Jesus

In the New Testament, “disciple” describes someone who follows and learns from a teacher by living out their teachings. When Jesus called His first disciples in Matthew 4:19, He said, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” This was no ordinary study abroad program. This was a unique call to put aside their livelihood, everything they knew, and accept a higher mission of saving humanity. 

Counting the Cost

But such a big mission doesn’t come without sacrifice and dedication. Jesus was clear that following Him would come at a cost: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). To take up one’s cross means to let go of personal ambitions, comfort and any relationships that interfere with our dedication to Christ. Jesus wanted His followers to understand that the path of discipleship demands full commitment—even to the point of forsaking everything (Luke 14:26). 

Transformation in Christ

The journey of a disciple is one of transformation. Romans 12:2 urges us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This transformation is Jesus replacing our old way with Christ-like attitudes, behaviors and actions. In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), Jesus sets a high standard of humility, mercy, and love that reflects his character. Discipleship requires us to grow and continually come closer to Jesus. 

Love as the Hallmark of Discipleship

Love is the defining mark of a disciple. Jesus declared, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). Discipleship in Christ means learning to love God with all your heart, soul and mind, and loving our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). Love is not simply a feeling. It’s an intentional commitment to act compassionately and justly toward others. This love reflects Jesus’ own nature and serves as witness to the world.

Making Disciples 

The journey of discipleship doesn’t stop with ourselves. Jesus has a charge for all of his believers: His great commission to “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This discipleship extends outwards, calling us to share the message of Jesus, mentor others and encourage believers to grow in faith. It’s not just pastors and missionaries who have this charge. It’s all of us. 

So, how do we live out discipleship on a daily basis? First off, prioritize time with God by cultivating a close relationship with God through prayer and Scripture. Next, seek community, surrounding yourself with believers who offer support and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). Then, remember to serve others, keeping a spirit of humility and service at the forefront of your focus (John 13). And finally, be ready to share the Gospel, your testimony and the hope you have in Christ (1 Peter 3:15). 

Discipleship is a lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ, embracing His love, and fulfilling His mission. Remember, just after Jesus gave us the commission to make disciples and right before He ascended to heaven, He offered us a promise, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). 

 

Are you looking to surround yourself with a group of fellow disciples to follow Jesus with? Download the Level 5 Friendship today. 

 

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Overcoming Anxiety About the Future

Our society in America is facing a crisis. Our country is safer than ever, yet we’re getting more anxious. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 43% of adults reported feeling more anxious than the previous year. That’s up from 37% last year. I’m not saying there are no reasons to feel anxious. There can be economic concerns, health issues, finances, relationships and, simply, the unknown, but worrying about what lies ahead can consume you. Even with anxiety about the future, God provides profound assurance, guidance, and encouragement.

Faith-Based Strategies for Anxiety

Trusting God with Future Worries

The Bible tells us over and over again that God is all powerful. Isaiah 46:9-10 says, “Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come.” We might not know the future, but we can take solace that God does. When faced with anxiety about the future, trusting in God’s omniscience can bring peace and clarity.

Finding Peace Through Scripture

Philippians 4:6-7 addresses our anxiety head-on: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Prayer is more than just asking God to remove our fears. It’s our way of communicating with Him and finding rest in His presence. When we bring our worries to God, we experience His peace. Instead of waiting for our circumstances to change, we experience the unchanging nature of who God is. That way, our peace does not depend on the outcome, but God’s constant love and protection.

Focus on Today

The modern world has discovered the phrase “be present.” It’s great advice—that the Bible included thousands of years before. Matthew 6:34 says, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Often, anxiety about the future stems from looking too far ahead, trying to predict and prepare for what’s coming. While planning is a practical part of life, obsessive worrying about the future is unproductive and can harm our well-being.

Remember God’s Faithfulness

When we’re in the throes of our anxiety, try to remember when God has been faithful to us in the past, which can strengthen our faith. Deuteronomy 7:9 explains, “Know therefore that the Lord God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments.” We can live in the reflection of these past experiences of provision, protection and wisdom, which will strengthen our faith in Him. 

Find Strength in Community and Scripture

God also comforts us with the believers around us. Proverbs 12:25 reminds us, “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” Go to your friends. Let them speak truth and encouragement helps us feel supported and grounded. Study His word together and invite Jesus into your time together. 

For some people, managing anxiety through prayer, scripture, and lifestyle adjustments alone may not fully alleviate their symptoms. Severe anxiety can affect your ability to function in daily life, interfering with relationships, work, and overall well-being. In such cases, seeking help from a mental health professional and considering medication may be part of a balanced approach to managing anxiety, especially if recommended by a doctor.

It’s important to remember that the Bible does not explicitly mention medication, but it does encourage us to care for our bodies and seek wisdom. Proverbs 19:20 says, “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.” If anxiety medication, under a doctor’s guidance, can help bring the mind to a state of calm where prayer, worship, and daily responsibilities can be managed, it can be one of the tools God has provided through medical knowledge and wisdom.

Taking medication does not indicate a lack of faith or trust in God. Instead, it can be a form of stewardship over your health and mental health, allowing you to better engage with your faith practices and find a balance in life. Medication, combined with counseling, prayer, and support from a Christian community, can be an effective approach for many people.

We don’t have to live under the control of anxiety. We can find freedom from fear and worry with God. He has already seen our tomorrows, and invites us to walk with Him, embracing each day with a heart anchored in His promises. Through His love and guidance, we can face the future not with anxiety but with hope and confidence. 

 

Want to deepen your friendships? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

 

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Understanding Spiritual Battles Through The Bible

It can be easy to forget that we are in the middle of an eternal struggle of good and evil every day. Ultimately, everything bad and destructive originates from Satan. The challenges he hurls at us are not always obvious. Some of them are invisible to us.

These spiritual battles present themselves as unexpected challenges or temptations. Whatever they are, the Bible is clear that we must stand vigilant guard. 

Recognizing Spiritual Battles

In Ephesians 6:12, the Apostle Paul writes, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly realms.” He’s reminding believers that not all conflicts are physical. They can be ideological against controlling rulers and authorities, or even against unseen forces. 

These spiritual battles can manifest themselves as temptations, discouragement, fear or anything that pulls you away from your faith and your commitment to following God. They can present themselves as inner turmoil or a pattern of external challenges. 

How can you know that it’s a spiritual battle? Persistent feelings of fear, guilt or confusion that seem overwhelming or disproportionate to the situation. Or you might find yourself having doubts about your faith, a sudden increase in temptations or thoughts that contradict Scripture can all be signs of spiritual battles. If you’re not sure, just remember that everything has spiritual significance. You are on a spiritual journey. Your ultimate goal is spiritual. 

Your Reward is in Heaven

As if you needed any more reason to be vigilant, remember that Satan despises people following God. He’s always looking to pick off believers with sinful desires and discouragement. He “prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Satan is always on the lookout. You should be, too.

As imperfect humans, we are vulnerable to his challenges. But they are not without their importance. Sometimes, God allows these battles to refine your character and improve your faith. As James 1:2-4 explains, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

Ok, so we have to face these spiritual battles. Good news: You don’t do it alone. Quite the contrary. Receive Jesus into every area of your spiritual life to protect yourself from the evil one, and further the Kingdom of God. Here’s how you do it. 

Bible Verses for Spiritual Battles 

The Bible tells us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). It also gives you a clear game plan on how to be spiritually prepared. Paul’s description of the “armor of God” in Ephesians 6:10-18 is a practical, powerful metaphor for this preparation. 

  • The Belt of Truth
    This symbolizes the importance of grounding yourself in the truth of God’s Word. Lies, confusion, and deception can cloud judgment, so holding fast to biblical truth is essential.
  • The Breastplate of Righteousness
    Living a life of integrity and aligning with God’s righteousness protects your heart from harmful influences and strengthens your relationship with God.
  • The Gospel of Peace (Shoes)
    A solid foundation in the gospel gives you confidence and peace in the face of adversity, knowing your ultimate hope lies in Christ.
  • The Shield of Faith
    Faith serves as a defense against doubts, fears, and the “flaming arrows” of the evil one. Trusting in God’s promises and His faithfulness shields you from despair and discouragement.
  • The Helmet of Salvation
    Understanding and holding onto the hope of salvation protects your mind from negative thoughts and anxieties that can derail one’s focus on God.
  • The Sword of the Spirit (God’s Word)
    Scripture is both a defense and an offensive tool, enabling you to counter lies and temptations with God’s truths.
  • Prayer
    Constant prayer is crucial, allowing you to stay connected with God, seek His guidance and find comfort and strength in His presence.

 Understand Them and Prepare Yourself

  1. Stay Rooted in Scripture: Your daily reading the Bible equips you with truths that sustain and guide you. Scripture also acts as a reminder of God’s promises, reinforcing faith in His goodness and strength.
  2. Cultivate a Strong Prayer Life: Prayer keeps you connected to God’s presence and will, allowing you to lay your struggles before Him and seek divine wisdom and peace.
  3. Resist Temptations: Recognize temptations and avoid situations that will compromise you or weaken your faith.
  4. Strengthen Your Faith in God’s Sovereignty: In moments of intense struggle, remembering that God is sovereign can bring great comfort. Trusting in God’s purpose and timing helps you endure hardships with confidence.
  5. Seek Support from Fellow Believers: Sharing struggles with trusted believers can provide encouragement, guidance and support. 

Want some help getting a strong group of believers around you? Download our Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today. 

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7 Bible Verses About Men’s Fellowship in the Bible

Friendship is a treasure. Unfortunately, for many of us, it’s a hidden treasure, because we’ve invested so little in it. So little time. So little of our effort. Like everything meaningful, the Bible offers wisdom on men’s fellowship, showing us how to bring it into our own lives and enjoy its life-changing effects.

Here are some of the key Bible verses about men’s fellowship in the Bible.

What Does the Bible Say About Christian Men’s Fellowship? 

“I have called you friends because all things, whatsoever I have heard of my Father, I have made known to you” – John 5:15

I love how this scripture gives us a glimpse into the daily lives of the 12 disciples. It’s like Jesus saying, “You know how I’ve been calling you all friends?” How cool is that? And the proof of friendship he gives is the knowledge of God that He’s passed down to the Father. It’s the perfect blueprint for the men’s fellowship, even in this modern age: a group of men coming around Jesus to learn about the Father.

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” – Matthew 18:20

It’s important to recognize Jesus’ presence at your men’s gatherings. He’s central to everything we do; when we gather in His name, He becomes the center of our time together. And spending quality time as a group with Jesus helps us become more like Him.

“And let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another” – Hebrews 10:24-25

Gathering together can’t be something we do infrequently as a men’s fellowship. The Bible calls us to be consistent, to meet together often so that we can make a real impact on each other’s lives with encouragement.

“You are my friends if you do what I command” – John 15:14

Have you ever had a friend challenge you to be better? To do what you need to do? I sure have, on the field as a quarterback and in life. Every friendship has expectations, and our friendship with Jesus is no different. Jesus’ expectation for us to obey God’s will. That doesn’t mean we order each other around. Instead, that means uphold ourselves and each other, without judgment, to the commandments of God.

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pay for each other so that you may be healed.” – James 5:16

It’s not easy for guys to admit fault or show weakness, but that’s what God wants us to do. But instead harboring and hiding our insecurities, only letting them grow, confessing our sins in a safe space with a group of guys who have your back will bring them out into the light where they can be confronted. It’s not just about holding each other accountable either. Our prayers, the Bible says, will help our brothers heal.

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves” – Romans 12:10

Guys aren’t always the best at showing love for each other, but God requires devotion. When was the last time you proved your devotion to a friend? Jesus proved His again and again, always putting his disciples first. Remember how He, the son of God, washed their feet on the last night before His death.

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” – Colossians 3:13

It’s not always easy to forgive but God asks us to remember that He has forgiven all of our sins through the sacrifice of His son, Jesus. Conflict is inevitable, but fellowship, we must find reconciliation and see it as an opportunity for us to overcome a challenge, which only makes our bonds stronger.  

I hope these verses remind you of the importance of our Biblical brotherhood and inspire you with the spiritual growth that’s possible through fellowship. As we strive to follow God’s Word and become more like Jesus, we can create powerful friendships rooted in faith.

 

Looking for the next step in Christian men’s fellowship? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

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