Jesus said, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19)

What does it actually mean to follow Jesus?

That question is at the heart of our summer series: The 12 Steps to Discipleship.

In the church, the word “discipleship” can become a junk drawer term. We use it to describe Bible studies, classes, podcasts, books, and programs. Those can all be good things, but Jesus was never simply interested in transferring information. Jesus came to transform people.

When Jesus called His first disciples, He did not say, “Learn about me,” or even “worship me.”

He said: “Follow me.”

1. We are invited to follow Him – to spend time with Him.
2. He will make us – it is His refining work in our souls that will change us.
3. Fishers of Men – in order that we may discover our passion with a purpose.

Discipleship is a journey of learning to spend time with Jesus, to be changed by Jesus, in order to be used by Him.

That is why this summer we are exploring 12 practices that have shaped followers of Jesus for generations:

Learning to admit our need for grace.
Trusting God when we are not in control.
Bringing our struggles into the light.
Practicing confession.
Seeking healing and reconciliation.
Learning to walk with God daily.
Helping others experience the grace we have received.

But these 12 steps are not 12 ways to quickly fix yourself.

They are not a checklist to become a better Christian.

They are 12 practices that help us create space for Jesus to continue the work He has already started.

Because the goal of discipleship is not simply knowing more about Jesus.

The goal is becoming more like Him.

Download the 12 Steps to Discipleship Study Guide below. Each step walks through a story of Jesus encountering and transforming someone’s life, includes questions for personal reflection, and offers one simple spiritual practice to help you take the next step in following Jesus.