I am Ready to be a Disciple of Jesus, What Should I do?

/ 12 minutes of reading / By

QUESTION:

I AM READY TO BE A DISCIPLE OF JESUS, WHAT SHOULD I DO?

ANSWER:

A disciple is more than just a follower; a disciple is a committed learner and imitator of Jesus Christ. It means living as Jesus lived, loving as He loved, serving as He served, and teaching others to do the same.

Following Jesus doesn’t end at the moment of salvation—it’s only the beginning. If you’ve recently accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, we first want to encourage you to read our foundational guide for new believers: “I Just Accepted Jesus Christ—What Should I Do Next?”. That article offers essential first steps to help you grow in your relationship with God.

This article is the continuation of that journey. While the beginner’s guide focused on establishing your personal walk with God through prayer, Bible reading, and walking with God daily, this next step answers a deeper call—the call to be a disciple of Jesus and to make disciples of others.

Jesus gave us this mandate before ascending to heaven, known as the Great Commission:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20).

But what does it really mean to be a disciple?

A disciple is more than just a follower; a disciple is a committed learner and imitator of Jesus Christ. It means living as Jesus lived, loving as He loved, serving as He served, and teaching others to do the same. Being a disciple means surrendering your will to His, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform your heart, mind, and character, and walking in obedience every day.

In this article, we will explore what it looks like to live as a true disciple of Jesus Christ. These next steps will guide you in aligning your life with the mission of Christ—growing deeper in love, stronger in community, more faithful in service, and bolder in proclaiming the Gospel. Through the following five practical steps, you’ll not only strengthen your own faith but also be equipped to help others follow Jesus, just as He commanded.

Let’s take the next steps together as disciples of our Lord.

1. Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

Jesus made it unmistakably clear that love is at the heart of discipleship. When asked which commandment was the greatest, He replied:

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 22:37–40).

 

Loving your neighbor as yourself is not merely a suggestion or a helpful virtue—it is the second greatest commandment. It is a direct reflection of our love for God and a foundational mark of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

 

The Apostle Paul reinforces this in his letters. He writes, “For the commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘You shall not covet,’ and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law” (Romans 13:9–10). And again, “For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’” (Galatians 5:14).

 

Wherever you go and whatever you do—whether inside the church walls or in the marketplace, your home, school, workplace, or community—you are called to love others with the same care, grace, and concern that you have for yourself.

 

True discipleship does not end in the sanctuary. It is not confined within the four corners of a church building. Discipleship is lived out in the everyday interactions we have with people: those we know and those we don’t, friends and strangers, the hurting, the overlooked, and even those who oppose us.

 

To follow Jesus is to love as Jesus loved—and He loved out there where the people were.

To go deeper into this topic, we invite you to read:
👉 What Does it Mean to Love Your Neighbor as Yourself?

2. Find a Bible-Based Church

Whether we like it or not, when we became followers of Jesus, the Holy Spirit placed us into something greater than ourselves—a collective body of believers called the Church. The Bible says, “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:13). This body is not just a metaphor—it is the real, living Church of Jesus Christ.

 

However, with so many different Christian churches out there, the question becomes: How do I find the right one? Which congregation should I join, and how can I be sure they teach the truth?

 

When looking for a Bible-based church, there are key doctrines you should check to ensure the church aligns with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Look for churches that affirm the following essential beliefs:

  • The Bible is the inspired and authoritative Word of God

  • Salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone

  • The Trinity: One God in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

  • Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man, born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died for our sins, and rose again

  • The Second Coming of Jesus Christ

  • The resurrection of the dead and eternal life for the saved

  • The Church as the body of Christ with a mission to proclaim the Gospel and make disciples

 

Additionally, it’s important to consider cultural relevance. While the Gospel transcends culture, the local church you attend should ideally be one where you can connect with others on a cultural and relational level. If you find yourself in a church where cultural practices are unfamiliar or vastly different, it may be difficult to build genuine fellowship. You may even feel so disconnected that you hesitate to return. The early church in Acts was united in faith and fellowship, and it’s wise to find a congregation where both are possible for you.

 

Also, be aware of the variety of Christian denominations. Each has its own theological emphases and traditions. While many agree on core doctrines, their views on church governance, sacraments, worship styles, and secondary doctrines may differ (We call these minor doctrines). Knowing what these differences are will help you choose wisely and avoid confusion.

To find such a church:

  • Pray for guidance: Ask God to lead you to a local church where you can grow and contribute.

  • Research local churches: Look up their websites, listen to sermons, and read their materials.

  • Attend services: Visit a few to experience their worship, teaching, and community firsthand.

  • Seek counsel: Ask trusted Christians for recommendations or feedback.

  • Check their statement of faith: This will reveal their core beliefs and doctrinal alignment.

  • Know their denomination: Be informed about their theological background and church structure.

  • Review their mission and vision: Ensure they are Gospel-centered and actively making disciples.

Choosing a local church is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a disciple of Jesus. It’s not about finding a perfect church—there is none—but finding one where the Bible is honored, Christ is preached, the Spirit is active, and you can grow, serve, and belong.

 

To learn more, read:

👉 What Should be in the Statement of Faith of a Bible-Based Church?
👉 What Are the Different Types of Christian Denominations?

3. Discover and Practice Your Spiritual Gifts

God has uniquely equipped every believer with spiritual gifts—not just for personal fulfillment, but for the building up of the Church. These gifts are not random; they are purposefully given because God has assigned each of us a specific role in the body of Christ. As Paul reminds us, “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all” (1 Corinthians 12:7).

 

Our spiritual gifts are meant to edify and strengthen the Church, helping one another grow in faith, love, and service. Whether your gift is teaching, encouragement, giving, leadership, mercy, or something else, it has been entrusted to you by the Holy Spirit for a divine purpose. No gift is too small, and no role is insignificant in God’s plan.

To identify and utilize your gifts:

  • Study Scripture: Explore passages like Romans 12:6–8, 1 Corinthians 12:4–11, and Ephesians 4:11–13 to understand the variety and purpose of spiritual gifts.

  • Reflect on your passions and talents: Consider where your heart is drawn in ministry and service.

  • Seek feedback: Ask fellow believers or church leaders what they observe in your life.

  • Engage in ministry opportunities: Step out in faith and try different areas of service—you’ll soon discover where you’re most fruitful and fulfilled.

When you use your spiritual gifts to serve others, not only does the Church grow stronger, but you also grow deeper in your walk with Jesus. Discipleship involves both learning and doing, and the gifts you’ve been given are tools to do just that.

 

To go deeper, read:
👉 What Are My Spiritual Gifts and Why Were They Given to Me?

4. Share the Gospel with Others

One of the clearest marks of a true disciple is a life committed to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. Jesus gave His followers this direct command:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them… teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20).

 

But why is sharing the Gospel so essential?

Because people cannot believe in Jesus if they never hear about Him. As Paul writes in Romans 10:14–15, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?… As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!’”

 

The Lord entrusted this mission to us, His disciples. It is not optional—it is vital.

 

However, before we go out and share the message of salvation, we must first understand the Gospel deeply and personally. Even the Apostle Paul, after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus, did not immediately begin preaching. Instead, he spent three years being taught and prepared (see Galatians 1:15–18). In the same way, we must ensure that we truly grasp the message we are sharing.

 

To effectively share the Gospel:

  • Understand the Gospel with all your heart: Know what the Gospel is, why it’s good news, and how it transforms lives.

  • Live authentically: Let your life reflect the truth of the Gospel. People are drawn to the message when they see it lived out.

  • Share your testimony: Tell others what Jesus has done in your life. Your story has power when grounded in truth.

  • Use Scripture: Anchor your message in the Word of God. It carries authority and conviction.

  • Be respectful and patient: Speak the truth in love, without pressure or condemnation.

  • Pray for open hearts and opportunities: Evangelism begins with prayer and is empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Sharing the Gospel isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being faithful. God uses ordinary people to carry an extraordinary message.

To go deeper, read:
👉 What Is the Gospel?
👉 What Should I Share When Evangelizing?

5. Disciple Others

Discipleship is not optional—it is obedience to the Great Commission. Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He gave His followers this charge:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations… teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20).

 

Notice that Jesus didn’t say to simply make converts. He said to make disciples—learners, followers, and imitators of Christ. That includes teaching others what Jesus has taught. In short, every disciple should disciple. If you are a follower of Jesus, you are called to help others follow Him too.

 

But where does it begin?

The first step to discipling others is to be a disciple yourself. You cannot teach what you do not know. You cannot lead others where you haven’t gone. That means learning what Jesus taught His disciples, and that begins with the Word of God. Discipleship starts in your personal walk, your daily reading, your understanding of Scripture, and your obedience to Christ.

 

To disciple effectively:

  • Educate yourself: Learn from the Lord Himself by soaking in the Word of God. Read the Gospels, study the teachings of Jesus, and understand how He discipled others.

  • Build relationships: Discipleship happens through connection. Spend time with those you are guiding.

  • Model a Christ-like life: Let others see how you follow Jesus in real life—through love, service, humility, and truth.

  • Teach with patience and grace: People grow at different paces. Discipleship requires long-term commitment, encouragement, and prayer.

  • Invite others into community: Encourage new believers to join a Bible-based church and be part of the family of God.

Discipling others doesn’t require a title or a platform. It requires a willing heart, a growing faith, and a desire to see others know and follow Jesus. Every disciple is a potential discipler—starting right where you are.

To go deeper, read:
👉 What Is Discipleship?

Final Thought

As we step into discipleship, we move beyond the basics of faith and embrace the life Jesus calls every believer to live. We have covered five essential areas:

  1. Love Your Neighbor as Yourself – The second greatest commandment sums up the law. Wherever we are—inside or outside the church—we are called to love as Christ loves.

  2. Find a Bible-Based Church – The Holy Spirit has placed us in the body of Christ. Finding a church rooted in truth and relevant to our lives is vital for growth and fellowship.

  3. Discover and Practice Your Spiritual Gifts – We each have a God-given role to strengthen and edify the Church. Our gifts are divine tools for ministry.

  4. Share the Gospel with Others – People won’t believe in Jesus if they never hear about Him. But before we speak, we must understand the Gospel deeply.

  5. Disciple Others – Every disciple should disciple. But to teach others, we must first be taught by Christ through His Word.

We have been saved—not just for heaven—but for purpose. God has entrusted us with a great commission and a great opportunity to be part of His ministry here on earth. Let us give our best to this calling, not in haste or pressure, but with humility and readiness.

Don’t rush. Listen to what the Holy Spirit is teaching you. Wait for the doors He will open, and when He does, walk through them in faith.

Bottom line: Let us walk in the Spirit every day of our lives.

Scroll to Top