What is a Disciple | Pat Lessard

Main message: Discipleship means following Christ, being progressively changed by Christ, and committing to Christ’s mission — and it’s grown most effectively in relational, church-centered environments where believers invest time in one another. The sermon used Acts 11 and other passages to show that faithfulness, example, and patience are essential as God uses hard times and community to make disciples.

Key points:

• Definitions matter: a disciple is one who follows Jesus, is changed by Jesus, and is committed to Jesus’ mission.
• The local church (Acts 2:42-47 model) provides the family, temple, body, and bride contexts needed for biblical discipleship.
• Acts 11 (Barnabas and Saul/Paul in Antioch) models how God uses hardship/scattering and faithful investment to grow believers and start the church.
• Disciple-making takes time and proximity — sustained, relational engagement (circles not rows) like small groups or year-long mentoring is required.
• Be faithful amid persecution or cultural distraction; identify and point out God’s grace in others’ lives and model Christlike character.

Scriptures mentioned: Matthew 4:19, Matthew 16 (I will build my church), Revelation 2:5, Acts 2:42-47, Acts 11:19-26, Ephesians, Ephesians 5:18