Pathway of Discipleship
At Cogdell we believe that discipleship is a life-long discovery process that begins with God’s grace drawing us into relationship with Jesus Christ. As we grow as disciples, we grow closer to God. As the process evolves, so do the spiritual practices that shape your growth. Each of us has a unique way in this process of growing closer to God. We are not all in the same place on this path, and we learn, grow and move in different ways.
Disciples follow Jesus by engaging in worship, studying scripture, especially the teachings of Jesus, supporting each other through prayer and companionship, sharing faith stories with others and generously giving and using gifts and graces from the Holy Spirit to build up the Church—the Body of Christ.
Discipleship involves:
- Worshiping God regularly in a community of faith
- Learning about the Bible and how to study the Bible
- Growing in your faith through prayer and spiritual disciplines
- Using your spiritual gifts from the Holy Spirit to build up the church
- Sharing your faith story with others either to bring them into a relationship with Jesus Christ or to strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ
- Serving God and neighbor through missions and outreach by embracing a hurting world
Spiritual Practices Evolve as We Grow
Personal Spiritual Practices
Category | Exploring | Growing | Going Deeper |
---|---|---|---|
Prayer | Lord's Prayer Grace at meals Prayers for help | Regular times Different types of prayer Conversational prayer | Silent Prayer Contemplative prayer |
Scripture | Informal Bible reading | Daily reading and reflection | Lectio Divina |
Giving | Occasional | Regular and tithing | Sacrificial, beyond tithe |
Faith Sharing | Learning about Jesus | Gospel story & your story | Sharing with others |
Engaging in Christian Community
Category | Exploring | Growing | Going Deeper |
---|---|---|---|
Small Groups | Sunday school | Short term study group | Wesleyan Group |
Worship | Occasional attendance | Regular attendance | Engaged in participation |
Service & Outreach | Serve where needed | Serve out of giftedness | Leadership and equipping others |
Faith Sharing | Learning about Jesus | Gospel story & your story | Sharing with others |