The Discipleship Process (Linking page)


  1. What Is a Disciple? Audio (57:48)
    We examine the Great Commission and consider four synonyms: disciple, follower, believer, and Christian. We examine three analogies of discipleship: abiding in the vine (John 15:1-9), sitting at Jesus' feet (Luke 10:39), and taking his yoke upon us (Matthew 11:23-30). Finally, we consider what Jesus expects of his disciples -- doing, obeying, continuing, and holding firmly, with grace when we slip.
  2. The Discipleship Process: Biblical Models for Spiritual Formation, by Ralph F. Wilson
    Available in book formats: paperback, Kindle, PDF
  3. Jesus' Discipling Strategy. Audio (52:44)
    We study the Gospels carefully to analyze how Jesus worked with his disciples -- selecting, spending time, teaching them to pray, teaching publicly and privately, rebuking, involving in ministry, and building a community of disciples.
  4. Paul the Disciple Maker. Audio (57:22)
    Paul worked differently from Jesus, but quite effectively. We'll consider various passages on maturity in Christ; being "formed in Christ"; correcting, rebuking, and exhorting; portraits of a disciple maker; use of his personal example; praying; mentoring; and writing letters.
  5. Elements of Discipleship Training. Audio (52:40)
    Turning to making disciples in our day, we examine the essential elements of the gospel, various disciple-training curricula, and the roles of mentors and influencers.
  6. Spiritual Disciplines (part 1). Audio (54:09).  We examine he role of spiritual disciplines in spiritual development and developing a rule of life Here we look at spiritual disciplines that can be practiced continually and daily, with particular focus on a bundle of spiritual disciplines wrapped into a daily Quiet Time.
  7. Spiritual Disciplines (part 2). Audio (42:26). We continue our study of spiritual disciplines with those that are typically practiced weekly, monthly, and annually. We'll also discuss developing a personal rule of life or spiritual trellis, as well as temptations to avoid.
  8. Becoming Both Disciple and Disciple Maker. Audio (50:06).  We conclude with the practicalities of growing as disciples ourselves and of discipling individuals, in small groups or classes.

Copyright © 2026, Ralph F. Wilson. <pastor@joyfulheart.com> All rights reserved. A single copy of this article is free. Do not put this on a website. See legal, copyright, and reprint information.