Discipleship DNA: Becoming and Multiplying True Followers of Jesus

Introduction

Just as DNA forms the building blocks of life, discipleship has its own 'DNA': three intertwined strings that define what it means to follow Jesus. This 'DNA' is a metaphor for the core principles of discipleship, which are like the genetic code that shapes our spiritual life. In the Bible, Jesus calls us to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). This isn't just a command; it's an invitation to a transformed life.

The strings that define discipleship

Let’s explore the three strings of discipleship DNA that defines what it means tobe a disciple:

1. Identity in Christ: Understanding who you are as a reborn child of God. 

2. Transformation: Growing in character and obedience through the Holy Spirit's work. 

3. Mission: Living sent, serving others, and multiplying disciples.

1. Identity in Christ

Just as a newborn child is welcomed with songs and blessings, your new identity in Christ is not just a change, but a precious and warmly welcomed transformation (Luke 15:10).

It is not something you earn, but something you receive through faith. We are born spiritually dead due to sin. Still, through faith in Jesus' death and resurrection, and unfailing grace, the Holy Spirit regenerates us (Titus 3:5). It’s God's promises, not feelings, that assure us (Romans 8:16).  Some of the signs are Love for God, obedience, and the fruit of the Spirit. This is also a sign of spiritual health and growth.

2. Transformation by the Spirit

This occurs through step-by-step growth, always enabled by the Holy Spirit, as we build character amid life's challenges. As Paul urges, 'Be transformed by the renewing of your mind' (Romans 12:2). This string covers spiritual growth, character formation, and obedience, all under the loving guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual Growth, from milk to solid food, comes through spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, fasting, meditation, and worship. Character Formation, dying to the flesh, and living by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-25), is the primary aspect of transformation by the Spirit. Loving Jesus means keeping commands, and to grow in obedience, submitting to empowerment by the Spirit (Ezekiel 36:26-27). To see this happen in our lives, submitting to the holy spirit and practicing spiritual disciplines is vital.

3. Mission with Jesus

The third string of Discipleship DNA is mission: living sent, which means being constantly aware of our role as disciples and actively seeking opportunities to serve and make disciples. Jesus said, 'As the Father has sent me, I am sending you' (John 20:21). This string focuses on multiplication, service, and outreach. Bearing fruit that can in turn bear fruit or make disciples that make other disciples is the center of our life as disciples of Christ. This is the goal of our calling as Christians and being able to do that is a sign of a healthy and mature disciple.

We are sent to make disciples who make disciples, and we can start our mission as small as one or two believers. A heartbeat of disciple-making is relationships and humility, characterized by love, service, and servant leadership, for which Jesus was our role model that we can follow. As sent, we are called to live a life of witnesses empowered by the Holy Spirit, and by doing so, we can make an impact from local to global.

 Take an Action

Discipleship DNA is not a training program but a lifestyle. Like an intertwined string, identity, transformation, and mission form a resilient foundation for disciples. Go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19). Be cultivating and multiply disciples in your locality. The Spirit will empower you.

Reflection Questions

• Which fruit of the Spirit do you need most? Why? 

• What fears hold you back from multiplication?