By Andrew Williams
Opening Prayer
Lord, as others have guided us, equip us to be patient and faithful guides for those who are new in their journey of faith.
Today’s Scripture (NLT)
Colossians 2:6-7
“And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.”
Making a disciple is more than just leading someone in a prayer of salvation. That is the wonderful starting point, the moment of conversion. But our goal is to help that convert become a mature and fruitful disciple. This passage gives us the roadmap: just as they accepted Christ, they must learn to continue to follow Him.
How do we help them do that? We help them put down roots. The very habits that we have focused on in this series—abiding in the Word, learning to pray, getting connected to community—are the foundational practices we must pass on to others. Our role is to be a spiritual guide, patiently helping a new believer learn how to read their Bible, how to talk to God, and why the church is so important.
By helping someone build their life on the foundation of Christ, we are helping their faith “grow strong.” Discipleship is the process of lovingly and patiently teaching others how to stand on their own two spiritual feet, so they too will one day be able to help someone else.
Disciples’ Life Tip: If you are discipling someone, don’t just tell them to read the Bible. Offer to read a chapter with them. Don’t just tell them to pray. Ask, “How can I pray for you right now?” and pray with them on the spot. Model the habits you want them to develop.
Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for those who taught us how to follow You. Make us patient and practical guides, helping new believers establish the spiritual roots that will last a lifetime. Amen.
