Are You Being Discipled?
Adrian Thornton

This month, we’re diving into discipleship. The series is called Being disciples. Making disciples. And it starts with one important question: Are you being discipled?

Not, “Are you a Christian?” But—are you becoming more like Christ? Are you obeying His commands? Are you joining in His mission?

In Matthew 4:19, Jesus says, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” That invitation shows us two key things: discipleship involves transformation (“I will make you”), and it happens in community (Jesus called a group, not individuals).

At Citylife, we believe small groups—what we call Cells—are essential for discipleship. So, let’s take the question a little further: are you being discipled in a Cell?

Here’s why it matters:

Love will grow you
We live in a culture obsessed with self-love. But God’s love—agape love—is self-giving. Paul writes in Ephesians that the body of Christ “grows and builds itself up in love.” That kind of growth doesn’t happen in isolation.

Yes, we need to look after ourselves, but when that comes at the expense of the love experienced in community, then we are selling ourselves short of being built up in the full expression of God’s love.

Being known will free you
Shame causes people to hide and is a huge barrier to community. It’s what Adam and Eve did in the garden. But healing begins when we’re known and loved. John Ortberg points out that in AA, real breakthrough often comes after Step 5—confession. When you share your struggles in a safe group, you experience freedom through love.

You were made for human connection
We’re more digitally connected than ever—and yet more lonely than ever. Why? Because digital connection can’t replace human connection. Again, Paul says in Ephesians that we are “joined and held together.” Discipleship happens when we share life together in person, and you can’t replace that.

Community (being in a Cell) isn’t always easy or convenient, and that’s okay. Part of following Jesus is making sacrifices. While it may be challenging, it will be the best thing for you. You will make great friends. You will build a resilient faith. And, you will become a disciple!

So, let me ask again—are you being discipled?

Below is Sunday’s message on YouTube

Bible discovery story:
Mat. 4:18-22

Questions:
1) What individualistic tendencies do you wrestle with when it comes to being part of the regular life of Jesus’ body (the church)?
2) In what ways is God discipling you through community now?
3) Think about the people at Citylife who aren’t in a cell and could be a good fit in yours. Pray for them and discuss possible ways of connecting them in.
4) Pick another cell and pray for them!

Here is a list of Cells at Citylife. If you aren’t in one yet, reach out to the leader to find out more. Remember, disciples are in community, so we encourage you to join one!