Discipleship 101 Lesson 5: Connected BtP 2.8.2026

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A disciple is called by Jesus

A disciple is converted to Jesus

A disciple is committed to Jesus and the Church

Today: A disciple is connected to Jesus and the Church

Discipleship as designed by Jesus is a group activity.

We are connected to Him

John 15:1–5 ESV

1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

We are connected to one another

John 13:34–35 ESV

34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Romans 15:5–7 ESV

5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

Ephesians 4:25 ESV

25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.

Ephesians 4:32 ESV

32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Ephesians 5:21 ESV

21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Kinds of Connections

Local

Personal

Communal

Regional

Cooperation

Coordination

Global

Connected to all Christians everywhere

Culturally diverse and  inclusive

Some necessary goals

Nurture

Witness

Encouragement

Measure