“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
— Matthew 28:19
So you have decided to follow Jesus, or you are close, and you are wondering what comes next. These discipleship steps for new believers give you a simple, doable path. Discipleship just means learning to follow and become like Jesus, and Jesus Himself told us to make disciples (Matthew 28:19).
Discipleship is a journey, not a leap
You do not have to figure everything out at once. Following Jesus unfolds one step at a time, with His grace at every point. The steps below build naturally on one another: begin with trusting Christ, take the early steps of obedience, and settle into rhythms that help you keep growing. None of this is about earning God's love, which is already yours in Jesus; it is about responding to it.
You were made to grow with others
Notice that several of these steps involve other people. God designed the Christian life for community, where we encourage and strengthen one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11). That is why joining a church and a wider fellowship matters so much. PraiseHim Club is free to join and exists to walk these steps with you, surrounding you with prayer and friendship as you grow in Christ.
How to Begin Discipleship as a New Believer
-
1
Trust in Jesus
Believe that Jesus died for your sins and rose again, and turn to Him in faith. Tell God honestly that you trust Jesus as your Savior and Lord (Romans 10:9).
-
2
Get baptized
Take the public step of baptism to declare your new life in Christ. Ask a local church to help you understand and arrange it (Acts 2:38).
-
3
Read the Bible daily
Begin reading a little Scripture each day, starting with the Gospel of John. Ask what it shows about God and how to respond.
-
4
Pray regularly
Set aside time each day to talk honestly with God in thanks, confession, and requests. Prayer grows your friendship with Him over time.
-
5
Join a local church
Find a Bible-teaching church and commit to gathering with God's people. You will grow far better with others than on your own (Hebrews 10:25).
-
6
Share and serve
As you grow, tell others what Jesus has done for you and look for simple ways to serve people in His name (Matthew 5:16).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does discipleship take? +
Do I have to do these steps in order? +
Take Your First Discipleship Steps
Join a free community that will pray for you, answer your questions, and walk with you as you begin to grow in Christ.
Join Free