10 Powerful Bible Scriptures on Discipleship

Ashland Watson
Dec 18, 2025
8 min read

Discipleship is not just a call to follow Jesus; it’s a transformative journey that involves personal growth, the spreading of the Bible, and empowering others to do the same. In this article, we will explore five key Bible scriptures on discipleship that provide both inspiration and direction for followers of Christ.

Additionally, we will show how these scriptures connect with the work of Mosaic International and how you can support the movement of discipleship by joining us in this mission.

Who is Mosaic International?

Here at Mosaic International, our mission is to strengthen local churches and mobilize them to impact their communities. Through our work in countries like Tanzania, Rwanda, Belize, the Philippines, and South Asia, we aim to foster discipleship by empowering church leaders and believers to live out the Gospel practically.

We believe that true discipleship is the key to transforming both individuals and entire communities, and we invite you to join us in this powerful movement of faith and change.

What is Discipleship?

Discipleship is about following Jesus, learning from His teachings, and living a life that reflects His love and truth. It is a continual process of growth, marked by the commitment to "make disciples of all nations," as Jesus commanded in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). Discipleship is about more than just knowledge—it’s about transformation and action.

Bible Scriptures on Discipleship

The Bible offers many scriptures that teach us about discipleship, its cost, and its rewards. Let's dive into some key passages that help us understand what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

1. Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

“Therefore 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. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

These are the words of Jesus in what is commonly known as the Great Commission. Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey His commands. Discipleship, therefore, is not limited to personal growth—it is about reaching out to others, teaching them the ways of Christ, and building the Kingdom of God.

At Mosaic International, we view this as our central mission. Our goal is to strengthen local churches through discipleship efforts, equipping them to spread the Gospel and meet the unique needs of their communities. Whether it’s in Tanzania, Rwanda, or South Asia, our focus is always on mobilizing local churches to lead in discipleship.

2. Luke 9:23 (NIV)

“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.’”

Discipleship requires sacrifice. Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him every single day. This is not a one-time commitment but a daily choice to live in obedience to God, no matter the cost.

This scripture is a reminder that discipleship is not always easy, but it is always rewarding. It means living a life that is radically different from the world around us, focused on love, service, and obedience to God.

3. John 8:31-32 (NIV)

“To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’”

Discipleship is about holding fast to the teachings of Jesus. It is not merely about outward actions but about allowing His Word to deeply transform us. Jesus promises that if we remain in His teachings, we will know the truth—and this truth will set us free.

4. 2 Timothy 2:2 (NIV)

“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”

Discipleship is about multiplication. It is not just about one person following Jesus; it’s about passing the teachings of Christ to others so that they, in turn, can teach others. This process of multiplication is key to the spread of the Gospel and the building of Christ’s Kingdom on earth.

Mosaic International embodies this principle in the work we do. We don’t just provide relief and development; we focus on empowering local leaders through discipleship, training them to pass on the message of Jesus and create a sustainable impact in their communities.

5. Matthew 4:19 (NIV)

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”

Jesus’ invitation to His disciples is a call to action. He doesn’t just say “follow me” but promises to send His followers out to “fish for people.” Discipleship, therefore, is about actively engaging in the mission of reaching others with the Gospel. It’s not a passive journey but one that involves sharing the love of Christ with others and making new disciples along the way.

At Mosaic International, we strive to equip local churches to be “fishers of people” in their own communities. Whether it's through education, community development, or evangelism, we work hand-in-hand with church leaders to help them reach those who need Christ the most.

6. Acts 1:8 (NIV)

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Before ascending to heaven, Jesus promised His disciples something essential for their mission: power when the Holy Spirit arrived. Discipleship isn't something we do in our own strength.

We receive power from the Holy Spirit to be witnesses, starting in our own "Jerusalem" (our immediate community), extending to "Judea and Samaria" (the surrounding regions), and reaching to the ends of the earth.

7. John 15:8 (NIV)

"This is to my Father's glory, that you bear fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples."

Jesus teaches that true disciples bear fruit. Discipleship isn't just about what we believe; it's about the spiritual fruit that grows in our lives, love, joy, peace, patience, and the transformation we see in others as we share Christ with them. When we bear fruit, we bring glory to God and demonstrate that we are genuinely His disciples.

8. Luke 14:27-28 (NIV)

"And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?"

Jesus doesn't hide the reality of discipleship, He wants us to count the cost. Following Christ Jesus requires everything: our time, our resources, our very lives. But Jesus uses the illustration of building a tower to show us that wise disciples understand what they're committing to before they begin. Discipleship is costly, but it's also the most worthwhile investment we could ever make.

9. Romans 10:14-15 (NIV)

"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'"

This passage reminds us why discipleship must lead to action. People cannot believe in Christ unless they hear about Him, and they cannot hear unless someone is sent to share the good news.

As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet" of those who carry the Gospel to others. This is the heart of missions, and it's why Mosaic International equips local believers to be those "beautiful feet" in their own communities.

10. Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)

"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross!"

The ultimate model for discipleship is Jesus Himself. He shows us what it means to take up our cross, not just metaphorically, but in actual self-sacrificing service. Jesus, though equal with God, humbled Himself completely.

When we follow His example, we learn that discipleship is about servanthood, humility, and putting others before ourselves.

This is the model Mosaic International follows: not imposing solutions from the outside, but humbly serving alongside local church leaders as they disciple their own communities.

How You Can Be a Part of Discipleship

Discipleship is not only about what we do as individuals; it’s also about what we do together as a community. At Mosaic International, we believe that one of the most powerful ways to live out discipleship is by supporting local churches through relief, development, and mobilization efforts.

Your involvement in these areas is an act of discipleship in itself, as you help to bring the love and truth of Christ to those who need it most.

How You Can Give and Support Discipleship Efforts

We invite you to be a part of this transformative mission. By contributing to the work of Mosaic International, you help empower local churches to grow and disciple others in their communities. Your support allows us to continue expanding our work in countries like Tanzania, Rwanda, Belize, the Philippines, and South Asia.

Whether it’s through a one-time donation or becoming a monthly supporter, your gift directly supports our discipleship efforts. As we equip local believers to spread the Gospel and make disciples, your generosity is helping to fulfill the Great Commission. You can contribute online through our website, and we welcome you to partner with us in this vital work.

Take Action Today

Your support can make a lasting impact in the lives of those in need. Give today and be a part of spreading the message of hope, transformation, and salvation to communities around the world.

Living Out the Call to Discipleship

Discipleship is not a passive journey; it’s an active, daily commitment to follow Jesus and make Him known to others. The Bible is filled with scriptures that inspire and challenge us to live out this calling.

Give. Serve. Disciple. Help us continue the work of discipleship through Mosaic International and bring hope to the nations.

Frequently Asked Questions: Bible Scriptures on Discipleship

What are some Bible verses about discipleship?

There are many Bible verses that highlight what it means to follow Jesus Christ. Some of the most well-known include Matthew 28:19-20 (“make disciples of all nations”), Luke 9:23 (“deny yourself and take up your cross daily”), and John 8:31-32 (“the truth will set you free”). These verses remind us that discipleship involves obedience, sacrifice, and transformation.

What does “worshiped him but some doubted” mean in the Bible?

This phrase comes from Matthew 28:17, right before Jesus gives the Great Commission. When the disciples of Jesus saw Him after the resurrection, some worshiped Him, but others still wrestled with doubt. This moment shows that even those closest to Jesus needed faith to step into their calling to go to the nations baptizing in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

What did Jesus mean when He said, “Whoever loses their life for my sake will find it”?

In passages like Matthew 16:25 and Luke 9:23, Jesus explained that those who cling to worldly life will lose it, but whoever gives up their life for His sake will gain eternal life. Discipleship is costly, but the reward is far greater, life with Christ forever.

How are disciples equipped for every good work?

2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that Scripture equips believers for every good work. Discipleship involves studying God’s Word, being trained by the Holy Spirit teaching, and living in obedience so that we can serve others and spread the good news.

What does “authority in heaven and on earth” mean in the Great Commission?

In Matthew 28:18, Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This statement shows His divine power and sovereignty. Because Jesus holds all authority, His command to make disciples carries eternal significance and power.

How do we understand Jesus’ words when He answered questions about discipleship?

When Jesus answered His followers, He often used stories, parables, and direct commands, like “Come, follow me” or “take up your cross daily.” His words are timeless, calling every generation of disciples of Jesus to live with faith, sacrifice, and courage.

MOSAIC INTERNATIONAL