Discipleship: it’s more than just showing up to church on Sunday. It’s about growing, learning, and actively following Jesus in your daily life. But where do you even start? Feeling lost is normal. That’s why diving into good books on discipleship can be a game-changer. They offer guidance, challenge your perspectives, and help you understand what it truly means to walk with Christ.
This article will explore some of the best books on discipleship available today, helping you find the perfect resource to deepen your faith journey.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A classic that challenges comfortable Christianity.
- Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples by Francis Chan and Mark Beuving: Practical guide on how to make disciples.
- Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes: Focuses on building character in men.
- Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero: Explores the intersection of emotional and spiritual health.
- Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream by David Platt: A call to a more radical, biblical lifestyle.
Top 5 Best Books On Discipleship
1. The Cost of Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s *The Cost of Discipleship* is a powerful and challenging book that dives deep into what it truly means to follow Jesus. Written during a dark period in history, it confronts the idea of “cheap grace” and calls for a radical commitment to Christ. This book isn’t a light read, but it will reshape your understanding of discipleship.
Pros:
- ✅ Profoundly challenges comfortable faith.
- ✅ Offers a historical and theological perspective.
- ✅ Encourages a deeper commitment to Christ.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be dense and difficult to read.
- ❌ Some historical context may be needed.
- ❌ Not for those seeking a light or easy read.
Verdict: This is a must-read for serious Christians seeking a deeper understanding of discipleship and a challenge to live out their faith more authentically. Be prepared to be challenged.
2. Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples
*Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples* by Francis Chan and Mark Beuving is a practical guide for anyone wanting to learn how to make disciples. It’s designed to be simple and accessible, providing a framework for understanding the core principles of discipleship and how to effectively share your faith with others. I used this in a small group once, and it really got us talking about our roles in helping others grow.
Pros:
- ✅ Very practical and easy to understand.
- ✅ Focuses on multiplication and making more disciples.
- ✅ Includes discussion questions and activities.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too simplistic for some.
- ❌ May not delve deeply into theological nuances.
- ❌ Relies heavily on personal experience.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a hands-on guide to discipleship, this is an excellent choice. It’s great for small groups or individuals who want to learn how to effectively share their faith.
3. Disciplines of a Godly Man
R. Kent Hughes’ *Disciplines of a Godly Man* is specifically geared towards men and focuses on the essential disciplines needed to cultivate godly character. It addresses various aspects of a man’s life, including his relationships, work, finances, and spiritual life. It offers practical advice and biblical principles to help men grow in their faith. My dad loved this book and often referenced it in conversations.
Pros:
- ✅ Specifically tailored for men.
- ✅ Covers a wide range of practical topics.
- ✅ Biblically sound and challenging.
Cons:
- ❌ Only applicable to men.
- ❌ Can feel overwhelming due to the number of disciplines covered.
- ❌ Some may find the tone too prescriptive.
Verdict: This is a valuable resource for men who are serious about growing in their faith and developing godly character. It provides a roadmap for spiritual growth and offers practical guidance for everyday life.
4. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
Peter Scazzero’s *Emotionally Healthy Spirituality* explores the often-overlooked connection between emotional and spiritual health. It argues that we cannot fully grow in our relationship with God if we ignore our emotional wounds and patterns. This book challenges readers to integrate emotional awareness into their spiritual practices. It really made me think about how my past experiences were affecting my faith.
Pros:
- ✅ Addresses the important connection between emotional and spiritual health.
- ✅ Offers practical tools for emotional healing and growth.
- ✅ Challenges traditional approaches to spirituality.
Cons:
- ❌ May challenge some deeply held beliefs about spirituality.
- ❌ Requires vulnerability and willingness to confront personal issues.
- ❌ Can be triggering for those with past trauma.
Verdict: This is a transformative book for anyone seeking to integrate emotional and spiritual health. It’s particularly helpful for those who have experienced emotional wounds or are seeking a more authentic relationship with God.
5. Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream
David Platt’s *Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream* is a call to a more radical and biblical lifestyle. It challenges Christians to examine their priorities and consider whether they have become too comfortable with the American Dream. Platt encourages readers to live more generously, serve the poor, and prioritize missions. It definitely made me rethink my spending habits.
Pros:
- ✅ Challenges complacency and materialism.
- ✅ Inspires readers to live more generously.
- ✅ Focuses on missions and serving the poor.
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel guilt-inducing for some.
- ❌ May require significant lifestyle changes.
- ❌ Some may find the message too extreme.
Verdict: This is a powerful and challenging book for Christians who are seeking to live a more radical and impactful life for Christ. It’s a great read if you feel like something is missing in your comfortable, Americanized faith.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right discipleship book depends on your individual needs and where you are in your faith journey. Here are a few things to consider:
- Your current level of faith: Are you a new believer or have you been following Christ for many years? Some books are better suited for beginners, while others are more challenging and require a deeper understanding of theology.
- Your specific needs: Are you struggling with a particular area of your life, such as your emotions, finances, or relationships? Look for books that address those specific issues.
- Your preferred learning style: Do you prefer practical guides, theological treatises, or personal stories? Choose a book that aligns with your learning style.
- Read reviews: Before buying a book, read reviews from other readers to get a sense of its content and quality.
- Consider a small group: Many discipleship books are designed to be used in small groups. Consider reading a book with a group of friends or fellow believers to discuss the concepts and encourage one another.
Ultimately, the best discipleship book is the one that challenges you to grow in your faith and live more fully for Christ.
FAQs
Q: What is discipleship?
A: Discipleship is the process of learning to follow Jesus Christ and becoming more like Him. It involves studying the Bible, praying, serving others, and sharing your faith.
Q: Why is discipleship important?
A: Discipleship is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. It helps us understand God’s will for our lives and empowers us to live according to His principles.
Q: How can I start my discipleship journey?
A: Start by praying and asking God to guide you. Read the Bible regularly, join a small group, and seek out mentors who can help you grow in your faith. Also, pick up one of the books mentioned above!
Q: What are some common challenges in discipleship?
A: Some common challenges include time constraints, lack of motivation, and difficulty applying biblical principles to everyday life.
Q: How do I choose a good discipleship book?
A: Consider your current level of faith, your specific needs, your preferred learning style, and read reviews before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Discipleship is a lifelong journey, and there’s no single “right” way to go about it. Hopefully, this list gives you a good starting point. Choosing the right resources can make a big difference, offering guidance, encouragement, and challenges that help you grow in your relationship with Christ. No matter where you are in your faith, there’s always room to learn and grow. So, pick up a book, join a small group, and embrace the adventure of following Jesus.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
