Practical Theology: Message of Christ Assignment
(Curriculum)
LaRonda Perrien-Massey
THEO530: Systematic Theology II (D01)
August 04, 2024
Contents
Lesson 1: Understanding Discipleship.........................................................................................1
Lecture.................................................................................................................................1
Teacher Notes......................................................................................................................2
Discussion Questions.........................................................................................................2
Lesson 2: The Call to Be a Disciple..............................................................................................3
Lecture.................................................................................................................................3
Teacher Notes......................................................................................................................4
Discussion Questions...........................................................................................................5
Lesson 3: The Church as a Community of Disciples..................................................................5
Lecture.................................................................................................................................5
Teacher Notes......................................................................................................................6
Discussion Questions...........................................................................................................7
Lesson 4: Personal Disciple-Making............................................................................................7
Lecture.................................................................................................................................7
Teacher Notes:.....................................................................................................................8
Discussion Questions...........................................................................................................9
Lesson 5: Serving in the Church................................................................................................10
Lecture...............................................................................................................................10
Spiritual Gift Assessment..................................................................................................10
Discussion Questions.........................................................................................................11
Comprehensive Quiz: Disciples Academy Pathway at Christ Disciple Mission Church......12
Bibliography.................................................................................................................................15
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Curriculum for Disciples Academy Pathway at Christ Disciple Mission Church
(Theme: Ecclesiology/Methods of Christ)
Target Audience: This curriculum is designed for new members of Christ Disciple Mission
Church, specifically young adults (ages 18-30) who are committed to growing in their faith and
understanding the role of personal discipleship within the context of the church. The course aims
to equip participants with practical tools and theological insights to actively engage in disciple-
making, both within the church community and in their personal lives.
Lesson 1: Understanding Discipleship
Lecture
Discipleship is at the heart of the Christian life and the mission of Christ Disciple Mission
Church. To be a disciple means to be a follower of Christ, committed to learning from Him,
growing in His likeness, and helping others do the same. This lesson will introduce the
foundational principles of discipleship, emphasizing its biblical basis and its significance in the
life of the believer.
Biblical Foundation: Jesus’ call to discipleship is clear in Matthew 4:19, where He says,
“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” This call is not just to learn from Jesus but to
actively participate in His mission of reaching others. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-
20 further highlights this by commanding believers to “make disciples of all nations.”
Discipleship, therefore, is both a personal journey of growth and a communal responsibility to
help others follow Christ.
At Christ Disciple Mission Church, we believe that discipleship is a lifelong process of
transformation that involves the mind, heart, and actions. It is not merely about gaining
knowledge but about being conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). This
transformation happens as we engage with God’s Word, participate in the life of the church, and
build relationships with other believers.
The Role of the Church in Discipleship: The church plays a crucial role in the discipleship
process. Ephesians 4:11-13 teaches that God has given the church pastors, teachers, and other
leaders to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ. At Christ
Disciple Mission Church, we are committed to providing the resources, teaching, and community
needed for new members to grow as disciples.
As new members of Christ Disciple Mission Church, you are invited to actively participate in
this community of discipleship. This involves attending worship services, engaging in small
groups, serving in various ministries, and building relationships with others who can help you
grow in your faith.
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Teacher Notes
Ecclesiology is the study of the church, its structure, function, and mission. At its core,
ecclesiology seeks to answer key questions about the nature of the church: What is the church?
What is its purpose? How should it function in the world? Understanding ecclesiology is
foundational to understanding how we, as members of the body of Christ, are to live out our
faith, particularly in the realm of disciple-making.
The Nature of the Church: The church is not merely a building or a gathering of people; it is
the body of Christ, a living organism made up of believers who are united in faith and purpose.
According to 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, “For just as the body is one and has many members, and
all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we
were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of
one Spirit.”
The church is described in various metaphors in the New Testament, including:
The Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27): Each member has a role and function,
contributing to the overall health and mission of the church.
The Bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:25-27): The church is loved and cherished by Christ,
called to be pure and holy.
The Family of God (Ephesians 2:19): Believers are adopted into God’s family, with
God as the Father and fellow believers as brothers and sisters.
The Mission of the Church: The primary mission of the church is to make disciples. In
Matthew 28:18-20, known as the Great Commission, Jesus commands His followers to “go and
make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the
Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” This mission is not
limited to church leaders but is a collective responsibility for all believers.
The Relationship Between Ecclesiology and Discipleship: Discipleship is the process of
learning and following Christ’s teachings, and it is a central aspect of the church’s mission. The
church is the context in which discipleship occurs; it provides the community, teaching, and
support necessary for spiritual growth. A healthy ecclesiology supports robust disciple-making
efforts, ensuring that believers are nurtured, equipped, and sent out to disciple others.
Discussion Questions
1. What does it mean to you to be a disciple of Christ?
oAcceptable Answer: Being a disciple means following Jesus, learning from His
teachings, and applying them in everyday life. It also involves helping others
grow in their faith.
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2. How do you see the church’s role in your personal discipleship journey?
oAcceptable Answer: The church provides teaching, community, and support that
are essential for spiritual growth and for fulfilling the call to make disciples.
Application: Reflect on your current understanding of discipleship. Identify one area of your life
where you need to grow as a disciple of Christ and commit to taking specific steps to address it.
Homework: Write a personal definition of discipleship based on the Scriptures discussed in this
lesson. Consider how you can apply this definition in your daily life and within the church
community.
Lesson 2: The Call to Be a Disciple
Lecture
The call to be a disciple is a call to a transformed life. It’s not just about making a decision to
follow Jesus; it’s about committing to a lifelong process of becoming like Him. This lesson will
explore the nature of the call to discipleship, the cost of following Jesus, and the rewards of a life
fully devoted to Him.
The Call of Christ: In Mark 8:34-35, Jesus says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny
himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but
whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it.” This passage highlights the
sacrificial nature of discipleship. Following Jesus requires a willingness to deny oneself, to let go
of personal ambitions, and to embrace the mission of Christ.
At Christ Disciple Mission Church, we understand that this call is challenging, especially in a
culture that values personal success and comfort. However, the rewards of following Christ far
outweigh the cost. Philippians 3:7-8 speaks of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus and
considering everything else as loss compared to Him. As disciples, we are called to value our
relationship with Christ above all else.
The Cost of Discipleship: Discipleship involves both challenges and sacrifices. Luke 14:26-27
emphasizes the need to prioritize Christ above all relationships and to be willing to carry our
cross daily. This means that there will be times when following Jesus requires difficult choices,
sacrifices, and perseverance. Yet, Jesus promises that those who lose their lives for His sake will
find true life.
As you embark on your discipleship journey at Christ Disciple Mission Church, consider what it
means to prioritize Christ in your life. This may involve reevaluating your commitments,
relationships, and goals to ensure that they align with the teachings and mission of Christ.
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Teacher Notes
To understand how to make disciples effectively, it is essential to study the discipleship method
of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate model for disciple-making. Jesus’ method was intentional,
relational, and transformational. He invested deeply in a small group of individuals, teaching
them, modeling godly living, and preparing them to carry on His mission after His departure.
Intentionality in Discipleship: Jesus’ selection of His disciples was intentional. In Mark 3:13-
14, we read, “And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and
they came to him. And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be
with him and he might send them out to preach.” Jesus chose His disciples with a specific
purpose in mind: to be with Him, to learn from Him, and to be sent out to make more disciples.
Jesus’ intentionality extended to His teaching and actions. He used everyday situations to teach
spiritual truths, as seen in His use of parables, miracles, and interactions with people from all
walks of life. For example, in John 4, Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well
not only revealed His knowledge and compassion but also taught His disciples about breaking
social barriers and offering the living water of salvation to all.
Relational Aspect of Discipleship: Jesus’ discipleship method was deeply relational. He lived
with His disciples, traveled with them, ate with them, and shared in their daily lives. This
relational approach allowed Jesus to teach by example, showing His disciples how to pray, serve
others, and love sacrificially. In John 13:1-17, Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, modeling
humility and servant leadership. This act wasn’t just a lesson in service; it was a relational
moment that deeply impacted the disciples.
Jesus also invested in His disciples by spending time alone with them, away from the crowds. In
Mark 6:31, He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.”
This highlights the importance of personal time with those you are discipling, providing
opportunities for deeper conversations, personalized teaching, and spiritual rest.
Transformational Impact of Discipleship: The goal of Jesus’ discipleship method was
transformation. He didn’t just impart knowledge; He sought to change the hearts and lives of His
disciples. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself
and take up his cross and follow me.” This call to radical self-denial and commitment to Christ
illustrates the transformative nature of true discipleship.
Jesus’ disciples were transformed from ordinary men into bold proclaimers of the Gospel. Peter,
who once denied Christ, became a leader in the early church, preaching with boldness at
Pentecost (Acts 2). This transformation was the result of years of personal investment, teaching,
and the empowering work of the Holy Spirit.
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Discussion Questions
1. What does it mean to take up your cross and follow Jesus in your daily life?
oAcceptable Answer: Taking up your cross means being willing to endure
hardships, make sacrifices, and prioritize Christ’s mission over personal desires
and comforts.
2. What challenges have you faced or do you anticipate facing in your discipleship
journey?
oAcceptable Answer: Challenges may include peer pressure, balancing faith with
work or school, and the temptation to conform to cultural norms that are contrary
to Christian values.
Application: Identify one area of your life where following Jesus requires sacrifice or a difficult
choice. Pray for the strength and courage to make that choice and to follow through with it.
Homework: Reflect on the cost of discipleship in your own life. Write down any areas where
you may need to make sacrifices or changes to better follow Christ. Share your reflections with a
small group or a trusted mentor.
Lesson 3: The Church as a Community of Disciples
Lecture
The church is not just a place to attend on Sundays; it is a community of believers committed to
following Jesus together. This lesson will explore the biblical concept of the church as a
community of disciples and the role of fellowship, accountability, and service within the church.
The Biblical Concept of Community: The early church modeled a vibrant community of
discipleship, as described in Acts 2:42-47. The believers devoted themselves to the apostles’
teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. They shared their lives and resources,
supporting one another in their spiritual journeys. This passage demonstrates the importance of
being connected to a community of believers who can encourage, challenge, and support each
other.
At Christ Disciple Mission Church, we believe that discipleship happens best in the context of
community. While personal spiritual disciplines are essential, it is within the community that we
grow, serve, and experience the fullness of life in Christ. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us not to
neglect meeting together but to encourage one another, especially as we see the Day of Christ
approaching.
Fellowship and Accountability: Fellowship within the church provides an environment where
we can build deep, meaningful relationships with other believers. These relationships are crucial
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for our spiritual growth. Proverbs 27:17 states, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens
another.” Through fellowship, we can encourage each other, hold each other accountable, and
spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Accountability is a key aspect of discipleship. By being open and honest with others in the
church, we can receive the support we need to overcome sin, grow in holiness, and stay
committed to our walk with Christ. At Christ Disciple Mission Church, small groups and
discipleship partners provide opportunities for this kind of accountability.
Teacher Notes
Community is essential to discipleship because it provides the environment in which believers
can grow, learn, and be held accountable. The New Testament emphasizes the importance of the
church community as the context for discipleship, where believers can build each other up in
faith and love.
Biblical Foundation for Community: The early church in Acts provides a model of Christian
community that is central to discipleship. In Acts 2:42-47, we read that the early believers
“devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and
the prayers. And all who believed were together and had all things in common.” This passage
highlights the elements of community that are vital for discipleship: teaching, fellowship,
communal worship, and mutual support.
The New Testament also uses the metaphor of the body to describe the church, emphasizing the
interconnectedness of believers. 1 Corinthians 12:12-26 describes how each member of the
body has a unique role to play, and how all parts are necessary for the body to function properly.
This illustrates that discipleship is not a solitary endeavor but a communal one, where each
believer contributes to the spiritual growth of others.
Benefits of Community in Discipleship:
1. Accountability: One of the key benefits of community in discipleship is accountability.
Believers can hold each other accountable to live out the teachings of Christ, to pursue
holiness, and to fulfill their calling. In James 5:16, we are encouraged to “confess your
sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” This type of
accountability fosters honesty, repentance, and spiritual growth.
2. Encouragement: The church community provides encouragement for believers, helping
them persevere in their faith, especially in difficult times. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges
believers to “consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting
to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as
you see the Day drawing near.” Encouragement within the community strengthens
believers and motivates them to continue in their discipleship journey.
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3. Support: Community offers practical and spiritual support to believers. Whether it’s
through prayer, providing for physical needs, or offering wisdom and guidance, the
church community is a source of strength. In Galatians 6:2, Paul instructs believers to
“bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” This mutual support is a
tangible expression of the love that Christ commands His followers to have for one
another.
Challenges of Community in Discipleship: While community is essential, it also presents
challenges. Differences in personality, background, and spiritual maturity can lead to conflicts
and misunderstandings. However, these challenges can be opportunities for growth, as believers
learn to practice forgiveness, patience, and love. Colossians 3:13 encourages believers to “bear
with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive
as the Lord forgave you.”
Discussion Questions
1. Why is community important in the life of a disciple?
oAcceptable Answer: Community provides support, encouragement,
accountability, and a sense of belonging. It helps disciples grow in their faith and
stay committed to following Christ.
2. How can you contribute to building a strong community of disciples at Christ
Disciple Mission Church?
oAcceptable Answer: Contributing to the community involves being an active
participant in church activities, building relationships with other members,
serving in various ministries, and encouraging others in their walk with Christ.
Application: Reflect on your current involvement in the church community. Identify one way
you can deepen your connections with others at Christ Disciple Mission Church and take a step
toward building those relationships.
Homework: Attend a small group or fellowship event at Christ Disciple Mission Church this
week. Take note of how the experience helps you grow as a disciple and how you can contribute
to the growth of others in the group.
Lesson 4: Personal Disciple-Making
Lecture
Personal disciple-making is the intentional process of helping others follow Christ, grow in their
faith, and become disciple-makers themselves. This lesson will focus on practical steps for
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engaging in personal disciple-making, the qualities of a disciple-maker, and the role of
mentoring in the discipleship process.
The Great Commission: Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19-20 to “make disciples of all
nations” is not just for pastors or church leaders; it is a call for every believer. Personal disciple-
making involves investing in the spiritual growth of others, whether through
formal mentoring relationships, small group leadership, or informal conversations and
friendships.
At Christ Disciple Mission Church, we encourage every member to see themselves as a disciple-
maker. This means being intentional about sharing your faith, teaching others what you have
learned, and walking alongside them as they grow in their relationship with Christ.
Qualities of a Disciple-Maker: Effective disciple-makers possess certain qualities that enable
them to lead others well. 2 Timothy 2:2 highlights the importance of faithfulness, as Paul
instructs Timothy to entrust the teachings to “faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
A disciple-maker must be committed to living out the teachings of Christ, demonstrating
integrity, humility, and a genuine love for others.
Mentoring is a key aspect of disciple-making. Titus 2:3-5 provides a model of older believers
teaching and mentoring younger ones in the faith. This relational aspect of discipleship allows
for personal growth and the multiplication of disciples within the church.
Teacher Notes:
Qualities of an Effective Disciple-Maker:
1. Faithfulness: An effective disciple-maker is faithful to the teachings of Christ and to the
people they are discipling. 2 Timothy 2:2 instructs, “What you have heard from me in
the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others
also.” Faithfulness involves being consistent in teaching and modeling biblical truths and
being reliable in one’s commitment to the discipleship process.
2. Humility: Humility is essential in discipleship because it recognizes that the disciple-
maker is not the source of wisdom or power, but rather a vessel through which God
works. Philippians 2:3 exhorts believers, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit,
but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” Humility in discipleship
fosters an environment where the focus is on Christ and not on the disciple-maker.
3. Patience: Discipleship is a process that takes time, and an effective disciple-maker must
be patient, recognizing that spiritual growth occurs gradually. 2 Timothy 4:2 encourages,
“preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with
complete patience and teaching.” Patience allows the disciple-maker to walk alongside
others, guiding them through the ups and downs of their spiritual journey.
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4. Love: Love is the driving force behind discipleship, as it reflects the heart of Christ for
His people. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 emphasizes that without love, all efforts in ministry are
meaningless. An effective disciple-maker loves those they disciple, seeking their spiritual
growth and well-being above all else.
Practical Strategies for Discipling Others:
1. Establish a Relationship: Discipleship begins with building a relationship. Spend time
with those you are discipling, getting to know them personally and understanding their
spiritual needs. This relational foundation creates trust and openness, which are essential
for effective discipleship.
2. Set Clear Goals: Discipleship should have clear goals, whether it’s growing in a
particular area of faith, learning to apply biblical principles, or developing spiritual
disciplines. Setting goals helps to focus the discipleship efforts and provides a measure of
progress.
3. Use Scripture as the Foundation: Base your discipleship on Scripture, using it to guide
discussions, teachings, and applications. Encourage those you disciple to study the Bible
regularly and to apply its teachings in their lives.
4. Model Christlike Behavior: Be an example of Christlike behavior in your own life. 1
Peter 5:3 encourages leaders to be “examples to the flock.” Your actions, attitudes, and
decisions should reflect the teachings of Christ, providing a living model for others to
follow.
5. Pray for Those You Disciple: Prayer is a vital component of discipleship. Pray regularly
for the spiritual growth of those you disciple, asking God to guide, protect, and transform
them. Colossians 1:9-10 shows Paul’s example of praying for those he discipled, asking
that they “may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and
understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord.”
Discussion Questions
1. What does personal disciple-making look like in your life?
oAcceptable Answer: Personal disciple-making involves intentionally investing in
the spiritual growth of others, whether through mentoring, leading a small group,
or sharing my faith with friends and family.
2. What qualities do you need to develop to become a more effective disciple-maker?
oAcceptable Answer: Qualities such as faithfulness, humility, love, and a
commitment to living out Christ’s teachings are important for effective disciple-
making.
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Application: Identify one person in your life whom you can begin to disciple. Start by building a
relationship with them, sharing your faith, and encouraging them in their spiritual journey.
Homework: Reflect on the qualities of a disciple-maker discussed in this lesson. Write down
which qualities you possess and which ones you need to develop. Pray for God’s help in growing
in these areas and seek opportunities to disciple others in the coming weeks.
Lesson 5: Serving in the Church
Lecture
Serving in the church is a vital aspect of discipleship. As followers of Christ, we are called to use
our gifts and talents to build up the body of Christ and to serve others. This lesson will explore
the biblical basis for serving in the church, the importance of discovering and using your spiritual
gifts, and the joy that comes from serving.
The Biblical Basis for Serving: 1 Peter 4:10 states, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve
one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” This verse reminds us that every believer
has been given gifts by God, not for their own benefit, but for the purpose of serving others.
Ephesians 4:11-12 further emphasizes that the leaders in the church are to equip the saints for
the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.
At Christ Disciple Mission Church, we believe that every member has a unique role to play in
the life of the church. Whether it’s through teaching, hospitality, music, administration, or any
other area of service, your contributions are valuable and necessary for the growth of the church
and the fulfillment of its mission.
Discovering and Using Your Spiritual Gifts: Discovering your spiritual gifts is an important
step in becoming an effective servant in the church. Romans 12:4-8 lists various gifts, including
prophecy, service, teaching, exhortation, giving, leadership, and mercy. Each of these gifts is
important, and together they contribute to the overall health and function of the church.
To discover your spiritual gifts, consider taking a spiritual gifts assessment, seeking feedback
from other believers, and paying attention to the areas where you feel most passionate and
effective in serving. Once you have identified your gifts, look for opportunities to use them
within the church, whether through existing ministries or by starting something new.
The Joy of Serving: Serving in the church is not just a duty; it is a source of joy and fulfillment.
Acts 20:35 reminds us that “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” When we serve others,
we reflect the heart of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45). Serving also
helps us grow in our faith, build relationships with others, and experience the joy of contributing
to something greater than ourselves.
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Teacher Notes
Spiritual Gift Assessment
“As a follower of Christ, you were given something very special by God: spiritual gifts. Your
spiritual gifts were not given for your own benefit but for the benefit of others, just as other
followers of Christ were given gifts for your benefit.”1 These gifts are integral to the health and
growth of the church and the fulfillment of its mission. By serving others with your unique
abilities, you contribute to building up the body of Christ, deepening your own spiritual growth,
and experiencing the joy that comes from reflecting Christ’s love and generosity.
In Ephesians 4:11-12, Paul reminds us that Christ gave leaders to the church "to equip the saints
for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ." This equipping and edification
ensure that every believer can effectively use their gifts to serve and strengthen the church. To
help identify and understand your spiritual gifts, we will now take a spiritual gifts assessment.
This tool will assist you in recognizing your unique abilities and finding ways to serve within the
church effectively. Embrace this opportunity to discover how you can best contribute to the
vibrant, loving community of believers at Christ Disciple Mission Church.
Link to Test: https://spiritualgiftsassessment.org/quiz
Discussion Questions
1. What are some ways you can serve at Christ Disciple Mission Church?
oAcceptable Answer: Possible ways to serve include participating in a ministry
team, volunteering for events, helping with administration, leading a small group,
or using specific gifts like music, teaching, or hospitality.
2. How does serving others contribute to your growth as a disciple?
oAcceptable Answer: Serving others helps me grow in humility, love, and
understanding of Christ’s teachings. It also deepens my connection to the church
community and allows me to live out my faith in practical ways.
Application: Identify one area of service in the church where you feel called to contribute.
Commit to serving in that area for a specific period and reflect on how it impacts your spiritual
growth.
Homework: Take a spiritual gifts assessment or reflect on the areas where you have experienced
joy and effectiveness in serving. Share your results with a church leader or mentor and discuss
how you can use your gifts to serve at Christ Disciple Mission Church.
1 Spiritual Gifts Assessment. "Spiritual Gifts Assessment." Accessed August 4, 2024.
https://spiritualgiftsassessment.org/quiz.
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Comprehensive Quiz: Disciples Academy Pathway at Christ Disciple Mission Church
Instructions: Answer the following questions based on the lessons you have completed. This
quiz is designed to test your understanding of the key concepts discussed in the Disciples
Academy Pathway. Each question should be answered thoughtfully and with reference to the
lessons.
Lesson 1: Understanding Discipleship
1. Define discipleship in your own words.
oAnswer: Discipleship is the process of following Jesus, learning from His
teachings, and growing in His likeness. It involves a commitment to personal
spiritual growth and helping others on their spiritual journey.
2. What biblical passage forms the basis for the call to make disciples, and what does it
command?
oAnswer: The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 forms the basis,
commanding believers to "make disciples of all nations," baptizing them and
teaching them to obey everything Jesus has commanded.
3. Explain the role of the church in discipleship according to Ephesians 4:11-13.
oAnswer: The church equips the saints for the work of ministry and for building up
the body of Christ, with leaders such as pastors and teachers helping believers
grow in their faith and discipleship.
Lesson 2: The Call to Be a Disciple
4. What does Jesus mean when He says, "Take up your cross and follow me"?
oAnswer: Jesus means that following Him requires self-denial, sacrifice, and a
willingness to endure hardship for the sake of the Gospel.
5. Identify two challenges you might face in your discipleship journey and how you
plan to overcome them.
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oAnswer: Answers may vary but could include peer pressure, time management,
balancing work and faith, etc. Overcoming these challenges might involve prayer,
seeking accountability, and prioritizing time with God.
6. What is the ultimate reward for those who follow Christ, according to Philippians
3:7-8?
oAnswer: The ultimate reward is the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus as
Lord, which is far greater than any earthly gain.
Lesson 3: The Church as a Community of Disciples
7. What are the key elements of the early church's community life as described in Acts
2:42-47?
oAnswer: The key elements include devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship,
breaking of bread, prayer, sharing of resources, and supporting one another.
8. How does fellowship within the church contribute to spiritual growth?
oAnswer: Fellowship provides encouragement, accountability, and support, helping
believers grow in their faith and remain committed to following Christ.
9. Give one example of how you can contribute to building a strong community of
disciples at Christ Disciple Mission Church.
oAnswer: Examples might include participating in a small group, serving in a
ministry, building relationships with other members, or mentoring a new believer.
Lesson 4: Personal Disciple-Making
10. What is personal disciple-making, and why is it important?
oAnswer: Personal disciple-making is the intentional process of helping others
grow in their faith and follow Christ. It is important because it fulfills Jesus'
command to make disciples and ensures the multiplication of disciples within the
church.
11. List three qualities of an effective disciple-maker and explain why each is important.
oAnswer: Faithfulness (ensures commitment to the process), humility (allows the
disciple-maker to lead by example and remain teachable), and love (demonstrates
genuine care for the spiritual growth of others).
12. Describe how mentoring plays a role in disciple-making according to Titus 2:3-5.
oAnswer: Mentoring allows older, more mature believers to teach and guide
younger believers in the faith, fostering spiritual growth and the continuation of
discipleship within the church.
Lesson 5: Serving in the Church
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13. Why is serving in the church considered a vital aspect of discipleship?
oAnswer: Serving in the church is vital because it allows believers to use their gifts
to build up the body of Christ, contribute to the church’s mission, and grow
spiritually through acts of service.
14. According to 1 Peter 4:10, how should believers use their spiritual gifts?
oAnswer: Believers should use their spiritual gifts to serve one another as good
stewards of God's varied grace, contributing to the overall health and function of
the church.
15. What is the relationship between joy and serving others as described in Acts 20:35?
oAnswer: Serving others brings joy and fulfillment because it reflects the heart of
Christ, who said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
16. Identify your spiritual gifts and suggest one way you can use them to serve at Christ
Disciple Mission Church.
oAnswer: Answers will vary depending on individual gifts, such as teaching,
hospitality, administration, etc. The response should include a specific plan for
serving in the church based on those gifts.
Bonus Question: Application and Reflection
17. Reflect on your discipleship journey so far. How have the lessons from this course
influenced your understanding and practice of discipleship?
oAnswer: Answers will vary but should demonstrate a thoughtful reflection on the
impact of the course on the participant’s spiritual growth, understanding of
discipleship, and commitment to following Christ.
15
Bibliography
Christopher Moody, Disciple-Making Disciples: A Practical Theology of the Church (Franklin,
TN: Carpenter’s Son Publishing, 2021).
Millard J. Erickson, Christian Theology, 3rd ed. (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2013).
