Getting Started

In seeking someone to disciple, we use a concept called Pre-discipleship. Pre-discipleship is as simple as forming a relationship with someone (e.g. Going on coffee dates, a surf sesh, etc.)!

We do it in order to evaluate if someone is full of F.A.I.T.H.

What is a person of F.A.I.T.H.?

• • • 1. • Faithful:
           Someone who is committed to growing in their walk with the Lord, remaining loyal and steadfast to Scripture. 

         • Available:
           Making time / having it as a priority to walk with God amidst a busy college life.

         • Initiative / Integrity:
           Willing take on their roles and responsibilities, being true to their word.

         • Teachable:
           Willing to receive feedback.

         • Humble:
           Not thinking of oneself as better than others, but being able to hold grace and truth well.

Here is a resource to discern if someone is ready for discipleship:

Read: The Right People for Discipleship

Ultimately, the process of discipleship is something to pass on to others. If you think you have found someone to disciple, read on to step B.

So, you’ve gone through pre-discipleship, and you think someone is ready to be discipled. The next step is to simply invite them into discipleship. Read the following article to better understand the commitment and challenges involved in a discipleship relationship.

Read: Commitment // Challenge to Discipleship

• After you have read the article, ask the student if they would be willing and able to commit to meeting regularly with you. If needed, give them a few days to pray, as we want them to consider the commitment involved. 

• We have a helpful resource for you to use in order to break the ice to deeper conversation and get to know one another’s stories. Go through the 5 H’s together and learn more about each other!

Read: The 5H’s

The best way to begin your discipleship journey with someone is to connect with them. To grow together it is important to know each other and share stories about life and, especially, your relationship with God. 

While going through Phase 1: Connection, also be focused on and thinking about step D...

In the 5 lessons of the connection phase, you will begin to understand your disciple better. During this process, think about which next phase would be best for them. Which lessons, concepts, or tools and training will be most helpful in their growth? Even asking them directly and looking over the phases and lessons list is a helpful way to understand and find the best way forward. 

There are so many well-thought-out lessons in these phases, full of rich material that dives deep into spiritual understanding, theology, tools, and training that will allow you to continue your discipleship journey for a long time together. Take time by yourself and then with your disciple to look over the material in the phases linked below to know how to continue to move forward together.

NOTE: We highly recommend moving on to Phase 2 immediately after Phase 1. This should be the typical pathway. Only on very rare occasions is it a good idea for a disciple to skip any lessons in Phase 2 before moving on to Phases 3 or 4.