Discipleship: Following Up On New Converts

DISCIPLESHIP: FOLLOWING UP ON NEW CONVERTS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:

"Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." – Matthew 28:20

Supporting Texts:

Acts 2:42, Colossians 2:6-7, Hebrews 5:12-14, 2 Timothy 2:2, John 8:31

INTRODUCTION:

The journey of salvation does not end at conversion; it is only the beginning of a lifelong walk with Christ. Jesus commanded His disciples not only to preach the gospel but also to teach new believers to observe all that He had commanded (Matthew 28:20). This process of nurturing, teaching, and strengthening new converts is what we call discipleship. Without proper follow-up, many new believers may struggle, fall away, or remain spiritually immature.

Discipleship involves guiding new converts into spiritual maturity so that they can grow in faith, understand the Word of God, and live out their Christian calling. The early church model in Acts 2:42 shows that the first believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, and prayer. This deliberate follow-up ensured that their faith was deeply rooted, and they could withstand trials and temptations.

As the body of Christ, we must take discipleship seriously. It requires patience, commitment, and intentional efforts to teach, mentor, and encourage new believers. In this study, we shall discuss the importance of discipleship, the key components of effective follow-up, and the role of the church in nurturing new converts.

1. THE IMPORTANCE OF DISCIPLESHIP

Discipleship is essential for the spiritual growth and stability of new believers. Without proper follow-up, many converts may not develop a strong foundation in Christ.

a) Establishing new converts in the faith.

Teaching new believers the fundamentals of Christianity helps them grow in faith and confidence (Colossians 2:6-7).

b) Protecting them from backsliding.

Without guidance, new converts can easily fall back into their old ways due to temptations and challenges (Hebrews 5:12-14).

c) Helping them develop a relationship with God.

Discipleship encourages personal devotion through Bible study, prayer, and fellowship (John 8:31).

d) Preparing them for Christian service.

As new believers grow, they are equipped to serve and share the gospel with others (Ephesians 4:11-12).

e) Biblical Example: Paul mentoring Timothy.

Paul took Timothy under his wing, teaching and preparing him for ministry, which ensured his growth and effectiveness (2 Timothy 2:2).

2. KEY COMPONENTS OF EFFECTIVE FOLLOW-UP

For discipleship to be effective, there must be structured and intentional steps taken to nurture new converts in their faith.

a) Teaching foundational doctrines.

New believers must be taught core Christian doctrines such as salvation, faith, baptism, and the Holy Spirit (Hebrews 6:1-2).

b) Encouraging regular Bible study and prayer.

A strong spiritual life is built through consistent study of the Word and communication with God (Joshua 1:8).

c) Connecting them with a church community.

Fellowship with other believers strengthens faith and provides encouragement (Acts 2:42).

d) Assigning mentors and spiritual leaders.

Having mature believers guide new converts helps them navigate their spiritual journey (Titus 2:1-7).

e) Biblical Example: The early church’s commitment to discipleship.

The early Christians devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers, ensuring steady spiritual growth (Acts 2:42-47).

3. THE ROLE OF THE CHURCH IN DISCIPLESHIP

The church has a vital responsibility in ensuring that new believers are nurtured and guided into spiritual maturity.

a) Creating discipleship programmes.

Churches should have structured discipleship classes, Bible studies, and mentoring programmes (2 Timothy 2:2).

b) Encouraging active participation in church activities.

Getting new converts involved in church activities helps them feel connected and grow spiritually (Romans 12:4-6).

c) Providing pastoral care and counselling.

New believers often face challenges, and the church must offer spiritual and emotional support (Galatians 6:1-2).

d) Teaching them to evangelise and disciple others.

Discipleship is not complete until the new believer can also disciple others (Matthew 28:19-20).

e) Biblical Example: Jesus and His disciples (Mark 3:14)

Jesus spent time teaching, mentoring, and equipping His disciples to carry on the work of the kingdom.

CONCLUSION:

Discipleship is the lifeline of the church. When we fail to follow up on new converts, we risk losing them to spiritual confusion, temptation, or false teachings. Jesus commanded us not just to make converts but to make disciples, ensuring they grow in knowledge and commitment to Him. True discipleship requires patience, dedication, and a heart for souls.

Every believer has a role to play in discipleship. Whether through teaching, mentoring, encouraging, or praying, we must commit ourselves to helping new believers become strong, mature followers of Christ. The kingdom of God grows not just by numbers but by strong, rooted believers who continue the work of evangelism and discipleship.

PRAYER POINTS:

1.  Lord, give me a heart for discipleship and follow-up.

2.  Father, establish every new convert in the faith.

3.  Lord, raise up dedicated mentors and teachers in the church.

4.  Holy Spirit, strengthen new believers against temptations.

5.  Father, help our churches to develop effective discipleship structures.