22 Jul W2 | Building Legacy (Discipleship)

Posted at 01:48h in August, Topics 2025 by

REFERENCE BIBLE VERSES

Psalm 78:4 ESV | “We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.” 


2 Timothy 2:2 ESV | “and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.”

 

OBJECTIVE

To understand the importance of discipleship in ministry as a way to pass on God’s love and wisdom to the next generation.

CONTENT

UNDERSTANDING DISCIPLESHIP: BUILDING WHAT LASTS

  • Some people might ask, "What will you leave behind?" We often focus on material wealth we want to pass down, or raising successful children. But what if we think deeper? True legacy isn’t measured in money or achievements, but in transformed lives. Psalm 78:4 (ESV) says, "We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that he has done." Our greatest purpose isn't just raising successful children or building wealth. It's planting faith that outlives us.
  • After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples in Galilee and gave them a lifelong mission: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19-20 ESV). His call to "make disciples" reminds us that discipleship demands intentionality. Like a farmer planting seeds, we cultivate spiritual growth through patient, deliberate investment in others.
  • "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also." (2 Timothy 2:2 ESV). This verse shows us discipleship's beautiful ripple effect: Paul shaped Timothy → Timothy equipped other leaders → those leaders trained the next generation. This is how God's kingdom spreads, through life-on-life relationships, where faith is both taught and passed on by example.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE, NOT JUST WORDS

  • Many see mentoring and discipleship as a top-down hierarchy, like saying: "Listen to me, watch me, do what I do." This mindset can easily slip into pride or control, harming those we are meant to serve. Jesus, the highest of all, said whoever wants to be great must become a servant to others (Matthew 20:26). In both His actions and words, Jesus gives us the true model of discipleship. It isn't about authority, it's about humility and service.
  • Discipleship is more than transferring knowledge. Jesus didn't just lecture the twelve disciples, He lived with them. They saw Him withdraw to pray alone, showing dependence on the Father (Luke 5:16). They saw Him serve the needy, showing compassion in action (Matthew 14:14). And ultimately, they saw Him surrender to the Father's will, showing obedience through suffering (Luke 22:42). His life was a living lesson. So, as His disciples today, we are called to reflect His character in every area of life, so that others may see Christ in us.
  • Discipleship grows best through genuine relationships. Just as iron sharpens iron, our faith grows stronger when we walk with other believers (Proverbs 27:17). The first Christians didn't rely on podcasts or books. They shared life, met in homes, encouraged each other daily, and showed what Jesus looks like in everyday life. When we learn from others and help them grow, we create a legacy that lasts for generations.

HOW CAN WE BE INTENTIONAL TODAY?

  • Discipleship doesn’t happen automatically, it requires intentional investment. We’re called to actively strengthen others in faith. Here’s how to start:
  • Initiate. Don’t wait for "the right time." Reach out to someone newer in faith, invite them for coffee, study a Bible verse together, or simply ask, "How can I pray for you this week?" Small beginnings often lead to lifelong growth.
  • Be present. Discipleship happens in the ordinary: car rides, coffee breaks, and honest conversations. Make time for people intentionally, and be fully present when others share their struggles or joys.
  • Be real. People don’t need perfect role models. They need to see how real faith works. Admit when you’re struggling, share how God is teaching you, and let them witness your dependence on prayer.
  • Pass it on. Encourage those you disciple to pour into others. One intentional relationship can start a chain reaction of faith.

BIBLICAL EXAMPLE

  • In the Bible, we see powerful examples of how godly relationships build lasting legacy:
  • David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 23:15-16).
    While David was hiding from Saul, Jonathan sought him out and encouraged him in God. A true disciple relationship points others back to God’s promises, especially in times of fear or uncertainty.
  • Paul and his companions (Colossians 4:10-11).
    Paul found encouragement through friends like Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus. Discipleship is not one-sided, even mature believers need the support and comfort of faithful companions.
  • We were never meant to walk alone. Discipleship works through relationships and person-to-person teaching. It is a beautiful cycle of growth that leaves a lasting legacy for generations to come.

REFLECTION/DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  • What legacy of faith do you hope to leave behind? How is this different from worldly measures of success?
  • Who invested spiritually in you? How did their investment shape your faith journey?
  • Who in your life needs an "iron sharpens iron" relationship? How could you initiate this?

REFERENCES