Loving others · How-to guides
How to Disciple Someone
To disciple someone is to help another person follow Jesus and grow, walking beside them as you both learn from Him. It is less a program and more a shared journey.
Walk with them, do not just teach them
Discipleship happens in relationship, not only in lessons. Share life, be present, and let them see your own walk with Jesus.
“And be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit.”1 Timothy 4:12, King James Version
Ground them in the Word
Help them read and understand the Bible for themselves. Your aim is to connect them to God, not to yourself.
“As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”1 Peter 2:2, King James Version
Teach them to pray and obey
Show them how to talk with God and to put His Word into practice. Faith grows as it is lived, not just learned.
“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.”Matthew 28:20, King James Version
Be patient and gentle
Growth takes time and includes stumbles. Offer grace and encouragement, not pressure, as God does with all of us.
“We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children.”1 Thessalonians 2:7, King James Version
Help them help others
Discipleship multiplies. Encourage them, in time, to pass on to someone else what they have received.
“The same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”2 Timothy 2:2, King James Version
The One who makes this possible: Jesus
Discipleship is ultimately about connecting someone to Jesus, not to you. He is the true teacher, and your role is to point away from yourself and toward Him. As you help another follow Christ, you will find He is discipling you both, forming His life in each of you.
Love is meant to be shared. You can find people near you, share the good news, or pray for the one on your heart.
Common questions
What does it mean to disciple someone?
To disciple someone is to help them follow Jesus and grow, walking beside them in a real relationship. It involves sharing life, grounding them in the Bible, teaching them to pray and obey, and encouraging them to pass it on.
How do I start discipling another person?
Begin with relationship: spend time together, read the Bible with them, pray together, and let them see your own walk with Jesus. Be patient and gentle, keep pointing them to Christ rather than to yourself, and grow together.