FG LESSON & PERSONAL REFLECTION GUIDE
Based on the message, “MAKING DISCIPLE, NOT JUST ATTENDERS”
Ptr. James Santos & Ptra. Niña Peñaranda
1. CELEBRATIONS
As we look back at the commitments we made from our previous reflections, what were you able to follow through on, that we can thank God for and celebrate together? We’d love to hear your story—would anyone like to share?
2. CHALLENGES
What made it difficult for you to follow through on your commitment? What kept you from doing it?
Let’s take time to pray for these things and for one another.
3. CONTENT & REFLECTION
MAKING DISCIPLES, NOT JUST ATTENDERS
Last Sunday, we were reminded that there is nothing wrong with attending church. We need worship, God's Word, fellowship, and community.
But Jesus didn't simply call us to gather people. He called us to make disciples.
Matthew 28:18–20 gives us the mission:
“Go and make disciples…”
Jesus didn't say simply, “Teach them” or “Get them to attend.” He said to teach them to obey everything He commanded.
So discipleship is more than knowing what Jesus said. It's learning to live what Jesus said.
And Matthew 4 shows us what this looks like in the life of the disciples.
A. FOLLOW JESUS
When Jesus called Peter and Andrew, His first words were:
“Come, follow me.” — Matthew 4:19
Discipleship begins with Jesus.
Following Jesus means that He is not simply an addition to our lives. He becomes the One who leads our lives.
As we grow, even the way we respond to difficult seasons can change. Instead of only asking, “Lord, bakit?”, we also learn to ask, “Lord, what are You teaching me?”
Following Jesus means learning to surrender our plans, preferences, and own way to Him.
B. BE TRANSFORMED BY JESUS
Jesus continued:
“Follow me, and I will make you…”
Jesus didn't expect Peter, Andrew, James, and John to become mature disciples overnight. They walked with Him, learned from Him, failed, grew, and were changed along the way.
That's what discipleship looks like.
As we follow Jesus, He changes our character, priorities, relationships, attitudes, and the way we respond to people.
And this transformation isn't only for Sundays.
It follows us into our homes, friendships, workplaces, schools, and everyday lives.
Discipleship is not simply about learning more about Jesus. It's about becoming more like Jesus.
C. JOIN JESUS IN HIS MISSION
Jesus also said:
“I will send you out to fish for people.”
Peter, Andrew, James, and John were simply doing their ordinary work when Jesus called them.
This reminds us that God can use us where we already are.
Our workplace, school, business, home, or even our everyday relationships can become places where we live out our faith and point people toward Jesus.
We don't always need a different position or a different place.
Sometimes we simply need to see our current place differently.
Kung nasaan ka ngayon, maaaring may purpose si Lord doon.
D. MAKE DISCIPLES WHO MAKE DISCIPLES
Matthew 28 gives us the mission: “Make disciples.”
Matthew 4 shows us the journey: Follow Jesus. Be transformed by Jesus. Join Jesus in His mission.
And what Jesus is doing in us is eventually meant to flow through us.
Discipleship is not meant to stop with us.
Someone walks with us, helps us grow, and points us toward Jesus. Eventually, we can do the same for someone else.
We don't need to be a pastor or have a ministry title to disciple someone.
Sometimes it looks very simple:
Having coffee.
Checking on someone.
Praying together.
Opening God's Word together.
Listening.
Encouraging.
Correcting when necessary.
It's not just a program or an event. It's relationship.
REFLECTION & DISCUSSION
1. Which part of the discipleship journey is God highlighting in your life right now?
Following Jesus, being transformed by Jesus, or joining Jesus in His mission?
Why do you think God is highlighting this area?
2. Who is one person God may be inviting you to walk with?
What is one simple way you can encourage, pray for, listen to, or help that person take a step closer to Jesus?
Take time to listen to one another and pray for each other.
4. COMMITMENT
Who is God asking you to walk with this week, and what simple step will you take?
It doesn't have to be something big.
One person. One simple step. This week.
Let's share our commitments and pray for one another.