Imagine standing at the edge of a forest, ready to embark on a hike. The trail ahead winds through towering trees and rugged mountains, with rustling leaves and distant bird calls hinting at what’s to come. You’re equipped with a backpack, boots, and a map, but the path’s twists and turns remain a mystery. Excitement mixes with hesitation: Am I ready? What if I get lost? This is what it feels like to begin discipleship under Jesus Christ—a journey filled with potential, mystery, and a choice to take the first step.
In this post, we’ll explore the question: Where does discipleship begin? Whether you’re new to Christianity or seeking to deepen your faith, this question is vital. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but through biblical foundations, real-life examples, research insights, and practical steps, we’ll uncover where this transformative journey starts and how you can take your next step.
Biblical Foundations: The Call to Follow
Scripture offers timeless insights into the starting point of discipleship. Let’s look at two key passages.
Matthew 4:18-22 – A Direct Call
In Matthew 4:18-22 (ESV), Jesus walks along the Sea of Galilee, sees Simon Peter and Andrew casting nets, and says, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They drop everything to follow Him. Moments later, James and John leave their boat and father to join Him.
While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.
This passage highlights a direct, personal encounter with Jesus and an immediate response. These fishermen weren’t scholars with a five-year plan—they were ordinary people interrupted by a simple invitation. Their willingness to act, despite not knowing the full path, shows that discipleship doesn’t require complete understanding, just trust and obedience. Today, this might look like hearing a sermon that resonates, feeling a tug during prayer, or meeting someone whose faith inspires you to step toward Jesus.
John 1:35-39 – A Gentle Invitation
In John 1:35-39 (ESV), two disciples of John the Baptist hear him call Jesus the Lamb of God. Curious, they follow Jesus and ask, “Rabbi, where are you staying?” He replies, “Come and you will see.” They spend the day with Him, marking the start of their journey.
The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and you will see.” So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour.
This story reveals a softer entry into discipleship, sparked by curiosity and an invitation to explore. Unlike the fishermen’s decisive leap, these disciples begin with a question and a desire to know more. Jesus welcomes them to walk alongside Him, showing that discipleship can start small—with doubts, questions, or quiet interest. This resonates with those who begin by reading the Gospel, joining a friend at church, or pondering life’s deeper meaning.
These scriptures reveal two truths: discipleship begins with an encounter—direct or subtle—and a choice to follow. Jesus meets us where we are, inviting us into transformation without requiring a full roadmap.
Real-Life Examples: Diverse Starting Points
Discipleship begins in varied ways, as these (fictional but relatable) stories illustrate.
Sudden Conversion
David, 28, battles alcohol addiction and hits rock bottom after losing his job. At a church recovery meeting, he hears a volunteer share how Jesus offered hope. In that moment, David feels an overwhelming sense of love and prays, “Jesus, if you’re real, help me.” Something shifts. He joins the group, gets sober, and starts reading the Bible, marking the start of his discipleship. Crises can become trailheads where vulnerability opens the door to Jesus.
Gradual Awakening
Sarah, 32, grows up in a Christian family but sees faith as routine, not a relationship. In her 20s, she drifts away, exploring other philosophies. Years later, a friend invites her to a Bible study where Jesus’ teachings come alive. For the first time, Sarah sees faith as personal. She starts praying and feels a quiet pull to commit to Christ. Her discipleship begins with a slow, personal yes after years of searching, showing that the journey can unfold gradually.
Seeker’s Path
Alex, 25, a skeptic who loves big questions, reads about world religions and stumbles across Jesus’ teachings. Intrigued, he listens to faith-based podcasts and debates with Christian friends. One Sunday, he visits a church out of curiosity and feels unexpected peace during worship. Though he doesn’t have all the answers, Alex joins a small group to learn more, deciding to follow Jesus step by step. His story highlights how discipleship can begin with intellectual curiosity and small actions.
These stories show that discipleship starts in unique ways—sudden, gradual, or inquisitive. Reflect: What moment or person first sparked your interest in Jesus? How could you be that spark for someone else?
Research Insights: Two Perspectives
Research offers two perspectives on where discipleship begins, each emphasizing a personal choice to follow Jesus.
Perspective 1: Radical Surrender
Discipleship begins with an all-in decision to follow Jesus, like a lifelong covenant. It’s a total surrender of your life, plans, and comforts—similar to a marriage vow. Jesus’ words in Luke 9:23, “Take up your cross,” underscore the depth of this choice. This perspective challenges half-hearted faith, urging you to ask: Am I all-in or just dipping my toes? It’s a call to see discipleship as a transformative, defining moment.
Perspective 2: Belief, Repentance, Baptism
Discipleship starts with three practical steps: belief, repentance, and baptism. Belief means accepting Jesus as God’s Son and Savior. Repentance is turning away from sin, like a hiker correcting their course. Baptism is a public declaration, like a wedding ring, signaling commitment. This framework is actionable: start with faith, take a step of change, and seal it with commitment. It’s less about intensity and more about intentionality.
Both perspectives agree that discipleship begins with a heart turned toward Christ, ready to learn and live like Him. Traditions may emphasize conversion, baptism, or obedience, but all see it as the start of a transformative journey. If you choose to follow Jesus, you’re choosing to be a disciple—one who follows and acts.
The Role of Community
Community is where discipleship thrives. Acts 2:42-47 (ESV) describes early believers devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayers. They grew through teaching, fellowship, and prayer together, sharing possessions and praising God. Their community attracted others, adding to their number daily.
Christian groups—mentors, small groups, or service opportunities—nurture discipleship. As a practical step, find a local or online community to immerse yourself in. If you’re struggling, reach out to connect with others. While the decision to follow is personal, growth flourishes in community.
Overcoming Barriers
Common myths can stop people from starting. Let’s tackle three:
- “I need to know everything first.” Discipleship is a journey of learning as you go. Jesus teaches along the way, meeting you where you are. The fishermen didn’t have theology degrees—they learned by walking with Him.
- “I’m not worthy.” Jesus calls imperfect people. Transformation follows the decision, not precedes it. He went to the cross because you are worthy. Repentance and reconciliation offer a path forward.
- “I can do it solo.” Growth flourishes with others. Community provides encouragement, accountability, and celebration. In-person connections are powerful, but online groups can be a starting point.
Wherever you are, Jesus meets you there—no prerequisites required.
Reflective Questions
Pause and consider these questions. Jot down your thoughts or share them with your community:
- What first drew you to Jesus, or what might draw you now?
- Is there a moment you felt invited to follow Him more closely?
- What’s one step you could take toward Him today?
Explore these at your own pace, listening for the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Your Next Step
Discipleship begins with a decision to follow Jesus, ignited by unique moments—a sudden call, gradual awakening, or curiosity. Rooted in faith and repentance, often marked by baptism, it thrives in community. Each path varies, but the essence remains: a life-changing relationship with Christ offering purpose, joy, and eternal hope.
- If you’re seeking: Read the Gospel of John, pray for clarity, and talk to a Christian friend.
- If you’re a new believer: Explore baptism and join a small group, preferably in person.
- If you’re a seasoned believer: Mentor someone or recommit to deeper discipleship.
For further reading, check out The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. No matter where you start, Jesus invites you to follow—and He’ll guide every step.
Thank you for reading! If this post inspired you, share it with someone who could benefit. Connect with me on social media or through the website, and let’s continue equipping for purpose together.