Gratitude and the Lifelong Journey of Discipleship

Devotional

Day 1: The Call of Discipleship—Obeying Jesus’ Great Commission

Jesus’ final command to His followers is to go and make disciples, not just converts, but people who are taught to obey all that He has commanded. This call is not reserved for a select few, but is the responsibility of every believer, regardless of their background or experience. Discipleship is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey of walking alongside others, helping them grow in faith, and being willing to be taught ourselves. We are all called to both learn and teach, to be poured into and to pour into others, as we seek to fulfill Jesus’ mission in the world. [27:43]

Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reflection: Who is one person God has placed in your life that you could intentionally encourage or walk alongside in their faith this week? How might you take a first step toward discipling or being discipled by them?

Day 2: The Heart of Discipleship—Living Out Christlike Character Together

Discipleship is rooted in relationships marked by compassion, humility, patience, forgiveness, and above all, love. These qualities are not just ideals but are to be actively practiced as we walk with others, bearing with one another’s weaknesses and encouraging each other to grow. True discipleship means letting the word of Christ dwell in us richly, teaching and admonishing one another with wisdom, and doing everything with thankfulness to God. When we build relationships on these foundations, we create a community where real transformation can happen, and where each person is supported in their journey to look more like Christ. [31:44]

Colossians 3:12-17 (ESV)
Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Reflection: Which of these Christlike qualities—compassion, humility, patience, forgiveness, or love—do you most need to grow in as you walk with others? What is one practical way you can practice it in a relationship this week?

Day 3: The Sacrifice of Discipleship—Denying Self and Following Jesus

Discipleship is not always comfortable or convenient; it requires sacrifice, just as Jesus called His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. This means giving up time, preferences, and even comfort to invest in others and to allow others to invest in us. It may mean stepping into awkward or unfamiliar situations, or choosing to serve when it would be easier to focus on ourselves. Yet, in this sacrificial living, we find true purpose and joy, knowing that our lives are not our own but belong to Christ, and that every act of sacrifice for His sake is never wasted. [47:19]

Matthew 16:24 (ESV)
Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”

Reflection: What is one area of comfort, time, or preference you sense God asking you to surrender for the sake of discipling or being discipled? How can you take a concrete step to offer that to Him this week?

Day 4: The Power of Real Relationships—Doing Life Together Authentically

Discipleship flourishes in the context of authentic, intentional relationships where people are real with one another, share their struggles, and invite each other into everyday life. It’s not just about meeting for Bible study, but about building genuine friendships, being open about joys and hardships, and supporting each other through all seasons. God designed us to journey together, not to walk alone, and He uses these honest, life-sharing relationships to bring healing, encouragement, and growth. Having someone you can truly be yourself with—who knows your heart and walks with you—can be life-changing and is a vital part of following Jesus. [43:25]

2 Timothy 4:9-11 (ESV)
Do your best to come to me soon. For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica, Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry.

Reflection: Who is someone you can be truly honest with about your spiritual journey? If you don’t have that person, what is one step you can take to begin building a more authentic, Christ-centered friendship?

Day 5: The Lifelong Impact of Discipleship—Persevering and Growing Together

Discipleship is not a short-term project but a lifelong journey that leaves a lasting impact, both on us and on those we walk with. Even the most devoted followers of Jesus, like Peter, experienced failures and setbacks, but through ongoing relationship and restoration, they grew in faith and courage. Jesus’ commitment to Peter shows us that discipleship is about perseverance, grace, and continually calling each other back to love and faithfulness. The relationships we build in Christ can sustain us for a lifetime, providing support, accountability, and encouragement as we follow Jesus together, no matter what comes. [58:28]

John 21:15-19 (ESV)
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”

Reflection: Looking back, who has made a lasting spiritual impact on your life through discipleship? How can you honor their investment by persevering in your own journey and by investing in someone else for the long haul?

Sermon Summary

Gratitude and discipleship are deeply intertwined in the Christian life. As we reflect on the ways God has blessed us, it should naturally lead us to pour into others, just as others have poured into us. My own journey is a testament to the power of intentional discipleship—how a few faithful people, willing to invest time and relationship, can change the trajectory of a life. Discipleship is not just a church program or a box to check; it is the very heartbeat of the Great Commission. Jesus’ final command was not simply to make converts, but to make disciples—teaching, walking alongside, and helping one another grow in Christlikeness.

Discipleship is a lifelong process, not a one-time event. It’s about sanctification—growing to look more and more like Jesus. This happens best in intentional, authentic relationships. Colossians 3 gives us a beautiful picture of what this looks like: compassion, humility, patience, forgiveness, and above all, love. These qualities are not just ideals, but practical necessities for real, life-giving discipleship. We are called to bear with one another, to forgive, to teach, and even to admonish when needed—all rooted in the love of Christ and the truth of His Word.

Practically, discipleship requires intentionality. It’s not about age or how long you’ve been a believer, but about spiritual maturity and a willingness to invest in others. Whether you’re being poured into, walking alongside a peer, or pouring into someone else, everyone grows. These relationships should be same-gender for wisdom and accountability, and they must be real—built on genuine friendship and openness. We need people in our lives with whom we can be honest, share our struggles, and invite into our everyday routines.

Discipleship is also sacrificial. It costs us time, comfort, and sometimes our preferences. But the reward is a deeper relationship with God and others, and a church that is truly journeying together. The impact of discipleship is lifelong, as seen in the life of Peter and in the ongoing relationships that shape us. As we launch Journey 24-7, I invite you to commit to this path—whether meeting weekly or monthly, what matters is intentionality and faithfulness. Let’s be a church marked by gratitude and discipleship, growing together for God’s glory.

Key Takeaways

1. Discipleship is a Lifelong Journey Discipleship doesn’t end at conversion; it’s a continual process of growth, sanctification, and transformation. Like Peter, we may stumble, but the call to follow Jesus and be shaped by Him is ongoing. The relationships we form in discipleship can have a lasting impact, echoing through our lives and the lives of those we invest in. [55:07]
2. Authentic Relationships Require Intentionality True discipleship flourishes in relationships marked by honesty, vulnerability, and real friendship. It’s not enough to meet occasionally or keep things surface-level; we must be willing to open our lives, share our struggles, and walk together through both joys and hardships. This kind of intentionality creates space for genuine growth and mutual encouragement. [41:46]
3. Discipleship Demands Sacrifice Investing in others means giving up time, comfort, and sometimes our own preferences. Jesus calls us to take up our cross and follow Him, which means putting others’ needs before our own and being willing to step into discomfort for the sake of another’s growth. The fruit of this sacrifice is a deeper sense of community and a life that reflects Christ’s love. [47:19]
4. The Word of Christ is Central At the heart of discipleship is the Word of God. We are called to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly, teaching and admonishing one another with wisdom. Discipleship that is not rooted in Scripture is just friendship; it is the Word that transforms, convicts, and guides us as we journey together. [34:46]
5. Everyone Has a Role in Discipleship No matter your spiritual stage, you have something to give and something to receive. Whether you are a new believer or have walked with Christ for decades, God uses each of us to build up the body. Discipleship is not reserved for the “spiritually elite”—it’s the call and privilege of every follower of Jesus. [37:44]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[17:16] - Discipleship Cards and Introduction
[18:41] - Gratitude and Discipleship Overview
[19:39] - Opening Prayer
[20:33] - What is Discipleship?
[21:13] - Personal Story: The Power of Discipleship
[26:56] - The Call of Discipleship: The Great Commission
[29:32] - Sanctification and Lifelong Growth
[31:15] - Colossians 3: The Heart of Discipleship
[32:47] - Practical Qualities of Discipleship
[36:07] - Spiritual Stages and Relationship Types
[39:06] - The Importance of Intentionality
[41:46] - Doing Life Together Authentically
[44:52] - The Centrality of God’s Word
[47:19] - Discipleship as Sacrifice
[55:07] - Lifelong Impact: The Example of Peter
[59:04] - Journey 24-7: A Call to Commitment
[65:14] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
[68:04] - Final Encouragement and Dismissal

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Colossians 3:12-17 (ESV) — Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV) — And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Matthew 16:24 (ESV) — Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”

Observation Questions

According to Colossians 3:12-17, what are some of the qualities that should mark our relationships with one another?
In Matthew 28:18-20, what does Jesus specifically command his followers to do, and what does that include beyond just making converts?
The sermon described discipleship as a lifelong process, not a one-time event. What examples did the pastor give from his own life to illustrate this ongoing journey? [[26:00]]
What does Jesus mean when he says, “let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” in Matthew 16:24? How does this relate to the idea of sacrifice in discipleship? [[47:19]]

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think Paul emphasizes compassion, humility, patience, forgiveness, and love as essential for discipleship relationships? How might these qualities make a difference in real-life situations?
The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 includes both “making disciples” and “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” What is the difference between making a convert and making a disciple? Why is the second part so important? [[29:51]]
The sermon talked about the need for intentionality and authenticity in discipleship. Why is it not enough to just meet occasionally or keep things surface-level? What happens when relationships lack intentionality? [[41:46]]
Discipleship is described as sacrificial, requiring us to give up time, comfort, and preferences. Why is sacrifice necessary for true discipleship, and what might happen if we avoid it? [[47:19]]

Application Questions

The pastor shared how a few people intentionally poured into his life and changed his spiritual direction. Who has poured into your life in a meaningful way? How did their investment impact you? [[26:00]]
Colossians 3 lists qualities like compassion, humility, patience, forgiveness, and love. Which of these do you find most challenging to practice in your relationships, and why? What is one step you could take this week to grow in that area?
The sermon emphasized that discipleship is for everyone, not just the “spiritually elite.” Do you see yourself as someone who can disciple others, or do you feel unqualified? What holds you back, and what would help you take a step forward? [[37:44]]
Authentic discipleship requires being real and vulnerable. Is there someone in your life you can be truly honest with about your struggles? If not, what would it take to build that kind of relationship? [[41:46]]
The pastor mentioned that discipleship relationships should be intentional and same-gender for wisdom and accountability. Do you have a relationship like this right now? If not, who could you reach out to this week to start one? [[38:46]]
Sacrifice is a key part of discipleship—giving up time, comfort, or preferences for the sake of another’s growth. What is one specific way you could sacrifice this month to invest in someone else’s spiritual journey? [[47:19]]
The sermon challenged the church to commit to Journey 24-7, whether meeting weekly or monthly, as long as it’s intentional. What would it look like for you to make a real commitment to discipleship in this next season? What practical steps can you take to get started? [[01:03:11]]

Sermon Clips

A lot of times we think of discipleship a lot like what we think of our salvation. See, our salvation, we always say there's three, I call them stages. Now, I'm careful when I call them stages because from the first stage, you're saved. It's complete. But you have justification, sanctification, and glorification. Justification is that moment that you surrender your life to the Lord. You are justified in the eyes of the Lord. You are cleansed. You are forgiven. You are His. But we know that that's not where our life ends. [00:28:19] (28 seconds) #SalvationIsAGrowthJourney

It doesn't stop with just going and sharing the gospel and somebody coming to know the Lord. No, it's coming alongside them, because if you see here, it says, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. It doesn't stop with make the disciples and be done. No, it's go from there and teach them to observe all that I have commanded. [00:29:55] (22 seconds) #ImperfectButGrowing

I think we would all agree that none of us are at the point where we follow all that God commands of us. We try, we make efforts, but none of us are all the way there. None of us on this earth will ever arrive. We're all imperfect beings. So therefore, we all still have more to be taught and we all still have things to teach others. So we are called to discipleship. [00:30:18] (27 seconds) #CompassionAndHumility

But then I love, in verse 16, let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom. Let's stop right there. It brings it back to the word of Christ. We let the word of Christ dwell in us richly. It takes it back to God's word right here. Each and everything that he tells us, this is the guide for us all. So it's keeping that in our heart, but it's also teaching one another, coming alongside and teaching, but then also admonishing. [00:34:46] (34 seconds) #LoveBindsUs

Sometimes it may be that you're having to confront them. When I say confront and I don't do that, I don't mean that in a mean way or a harsh way. No, we do it in a loving way. And we also recognize in it that we're sinful too. We don't come to somebody and say, hey, I'm perfect but here's what you're dealing with. No, it's, hey, I've been dealing with this man but I've also noticed this in your life and I want to help you through it. What can I do to help you? How can I help you fight this? [00:46:06] (30 seconds) #EternalFocus

Because when we get in these discipling relationships, we realize that it's not just about us. It's about someone else. And that's because discipleship is sacrificial. We see in Matthew 16 24, that Jesus told his disciples, if anyone would come after me, in some translations it actually says if anyone would be my disciple, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Jesus says if you're going to follow after me, if you're going to live a life that I have called you to live, you must be willing to take up your cross and follow. [00:46:36] (37 seconds) #SacrificeYourTime

But when he said this, the view of the cross was of pain, of punishment, of death, of sacrifice. At the time, the cross was viewed as one of the most despicable ways, one of the most humiliating ways someone could die. So we have this view of the cross of hope and redemption while also recognizing the pain that Jesus suffered. We must remember that there was that pain and suffering and that sacrifice. And that's what he's called us to live a life of. [00:47:49] (37 seconds) #EmbraceDiscomfort

There's one theme I constantly find myself coming back to. And it's keeping our mind on eternal things, not earthly things. If we do that, it shifts our mindset in all of it. Everything can come back to that. Because if we keep our mind on eternal things, we recognize nothing on this life is ours, not the time, not the space, not the property, not any of it. How can we use it to glorify God? [00:49:00] (30 seconds) #FaithThatLasts

But I can honestly say there's never been a time where I've gone and spent time with someone in a discipling relationship and left. I've been like, man, I wish I hadn't done that. So when we sacrifice our time, I can promise you the Lord is going to work in it as long as we hand it over to him. And we're not going to regret it. [00:51:21] (25 seconds)

So we see a man that came to know the Lord, walked with him, messed up. But then because the Lord continued to pursue him and disciple him, grew in courage, grew in strength, and ultimately went out and shared God's word, was persecuted, and eventually killed for his faith. That's a lifelong impact that the discipleship of Jesus had on him. It didn't end. We also see that Jesus discipled him up until he ascended back into heaven. [00:57:56] (40 seconds)

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