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Discipleship

FAQ’s about Discipleship at UPC

What is a disciple?

Originally, the word “disciple” referred to a follower or student. When Jesus called Peter, James, John, Andrew, and the other disciples, he said “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” So a disciple is someone who spends a significant amount of time with a mentor – learning from, emulating, and living life with him or her. Here at UPC, we define a disciple as a mature, reproducing follower of Jesus Christ.

How important is discipleship?

Very important. Jesus’ last command before his ascension was “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:18-20). Note that the command was not just to tell people about Jesus, but to make disciples. It is better to build disciples than to win converts.

How does discipleship fit into the ministry plan of UPC?

Discipleship is a key way we help people grow. While it is important to attend worship, join the church, participate in a Life Group, and attend other church functions, a Christian can easily get lost in such groups. In order to grow, you need to be in vital relationship with one, two, or three other people who really know you and can challenge you to maturity. We believe that especially in the early stages of your Christian walk, you need a more mature believer to come alongside and be your discipler. Then later, when you are ready, you need to begin leading others to spiritual maturity by discipling them.

What is UPC’s discipleship plan?

It’s called D-Groups. A D-Group is a group of 2-4 men or women who meet regularly for the purpose of spiritual transformation. Each group consists of a discipler and one to three disciples. The group first completes a 9-week foundational course called The Gospel Centered Life, and then moves on to a 6-month course called Discipleship Essentials. Each disciple pledges to consider starting his or her own D-Group at the end of that first-year experience. So our vision is to multiply disciples at UPC by reaching out into our networks of relationships outside the church.

What is the difference between D-Groups and Life Groups?

Life Groups are UPC’s small group ministry. A Life Group is a group of roughly five to twelve people who meet regularly for learning, intercessory prayer, fellowship, and extension. The basic purposes of a Life Group are friendship and care. By joining a Life Group, a new person at UPC experiences community. Life Groups serve the church, have fun, study the Bible and pray together, care for one another during times of crisis, and grow deeper in relationship with one another. By contrast, D-Groups exist for the purposes of transformation and multiplication. There is a more set structure and set curriculum for D-Groups than for Life Groups. The accountability level is higher in a D-Group than in a Life Group. Also, D-Groups are segregated by gender, while Life Groups are generally made up of both men and women. Finally, the life span of a D-Group is limited to roughly one year, while that of a Life Group is open ended.

What does a D-Group meeting look like?

Meetings are normally held weekly. A typical D-Group meeting lasts 60-90 minutes. It begins with small talk, “catching up,” and prayer. Then the group moves through a lesson in one of the two books of the core curriculum. There is a time of sharing, talking about life’s challenges, and being honest and accountable with one another. Then there is a closing prayer, including praying for non-Christians in each person’s circle of influence.

How do I get into a D-Group?

Contact one of our pastors: