UR the Church: Discipleship

Discipleship is a widely used term, but what does it really mean? When we talk about “discipling someone” or “making disciples,” it goes beyond just a Bible study or a program. Looking at Paul and Timothy’s example, we see that discipleship is about sharing life with someone to promote growth by modeling the life of Christ. Paul didn’t just pass on doctrine to Timothy; he invested in him. Their relationship was built on love, trust, and genuine concern. By investing himself in the younger man’s life, Paul empowered Timothy to grow and equipped him for ministry.

Read the scriptures below aloud. Discuss (1) why the instruction was important for Timothy and (2) why it is important for us.

2 Timothy 1:13-14 (Guard the Gospel
2 Timothy 4:2 (Preach the Word)
1 Timothy 6:12 (Fight the Good Fight)
1 Timothy 4:12 (Set an Example)
1 Timothy 1:3-4, 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (Teach Sound Doctrine)
2 Timothy 2:3 (Learn How to Suffer)
1 Timothy 4:7-8 (Train in Godliness)
1 Timothy 6:6-10 (Be Content)
2 Timothy 1:6-7 (Use Gifts to Serve)

1. Who invested in you? Share about a discipling relationship that changed your life and spiritual growth.
2. How important is the example of a mentor/discipler’s life? An old cliché goes “Do as I say, not as I do.” Does that work? Does it mean disciplers have to be perfect?
3. Read 2 Timothy 2:1-7. What jumps out to you in this passage? Why do you think Paul emphasizes suffering?
4. Who is your Timothy?