Evangelism vs. Discipleship
Key Scriptures
Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 2:41–42; 2 Timothy 2:2
Introduction
Many believers are passionate about evangelism — sharing the good news so people can meet Jesus. Others are passionate about discipleship — helping believers grow into maturity.
The truth is, the Great Commission calls us to both. Evangelism without discipleship is like delivering a newborn and leaving them without care. Discipleship without evangelism is like feeding the same family but never inviting anyone new to the table.
Jesus’ model was clear: win them → grow them → send them.
Biblical Foundation
- Matthew 28:18–20 – The Great Commission includes going (evangelism) and teaching (discipleship).
- Acts 2:41–42 – New believers were added and then devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, and prayer.
- 2 Timothy 2:2 – Paul instructs Timothy to pass on what he learned to faithful people who will teach others.
Kingdom Principles
- Evangelism starts the journey; discipleship sustains it.
- Evangelism is the front door; discipleship is the house where growth happens.
- Every believer can do both.
- You may lead someone to Christ and also walk with them as they grow.
- The goal is multiplication.
- Disciples make disciples, who make disciples — spreading the Kingdom exponentially.
Practical Differences: Evangelism => Discipleship
- Sharing the good news => Teaching and walking with believers
- Short-term entry point => Long-term growth process
- Focused on conversion => Focused on transformation
- Introduces to Christ => Deepens relationship with Christ
How They Work Together
- Step 1: Evangelism — Introduce someone to Jesus through words, actions, and love.
- Step 2: Discipleship — Walk alongside them, helping them grow in faith, prayer, and the Word.
- Step 3: Multiplication — Equip them to reach others and repeat the process.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Stopping at conversion – Leaving new believers without support.
- Overloading new believers – Expecting them to grasp deep theology too quickly.
- Separating the two – Treating evangelism and discipleship as unrelated instead of connected stages.
David led his co-worker to Christ over lunch. Instead of leaving it there, he invited him to a small Bible study, introduced him to church friends, and met regularly for prayer. Within a year, his co-worker was discipling a new believer himself — evangelism flowed naturally into discipleship.
Action Challenge: “This Week’s Mission”
- Think of one person you know who is not yet a believer and one who is a new believer.
- Pray for both, and look for a way to share the gospel with the first and encourage or mentor the second.
Interactive Discussion Prompts
- When you lead someone to Christ, what simple first steps could you take to help them grow?
- Have you experienced a time when someone invested in your spiritual growth? How did it shape you?
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