Discipleship is an integral part of our walk as Christians. It is also an integral aspect of success in college. Here are three reasons why:
1. Jesus Commanded It
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” Matt. 28:19-20
Discipleship is important because Jesus commanded it. Stan Crocker, 2017 PHC alum, said:
“The goal of discipleship is to honor God by teaching others to follow Jesus and to imitate God. This happens in homes and churches around the world, and we as individual Christians seek to be disciples and to be disciple-makers.”
Going to college does not put this commandment on hold! Many students seek out mentors or form discipleship groups. In fact, multiple faculty members, such as Dr. Doug Favelo, Dr. Stephen Hake, and Professor Doyle disciple and mentor students.
2. Helps You Learn
College is a huge learning curve. Students are constantly growing and developing not only as adults but as godly young men and women. Discipleship enables someone else to help with this process by speaking into a student’s life to help keep them on the right track. Students, along with faculty mentorships, organize accountability groups and prayer meetings to encourage each other. Upper-classmen often disciple younger students and freshmen. Meredith Monroe, a senior and an RA on campus, said:
“It’s so encouraging to find someone who has walked the path before you, to know that you’re not alone and someone understands. It takes a dose of humility to admit that you need help and guidance from someone else, but that is vital to spiritual growth.”
This idea of passing along wisdom originates in 2 Timothy 2:2: “What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.”
3. Develops Close Friendships
Discipleship includes sharing and fellowship, which creates close ties between students and their discipleship partners. Students form “beautiful friendships and lifelong memories” from their bonds with discipleship partners, Monroe said.
Scripture also commands us to fellowship. The author of Hebrews writes in chapter 10:24-25: "Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
[Related Post: What Does it Mean to Have Accountability in Friendships]
PHC has a culture of discipleship, Crocker said, which should remind students that they are apart of a bigger plan than themselves. Thus, they can “invest in others for the glory of God. God can use humble college students to display His power and love.”
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