How to Start a
Discipleship Group
In Matthew 28:18-19, Jesus gave you a mission—what we call the Great Commission: “Go make disciples.”
You’ve probably heard about discipleship at church. Maybe you’ve even sat through sermons or classes on it. Most Christians agree it’s super important—and something Jesus clearly commanded us to do. But if you’re like a lot of people, you might not actually be making disciples yourself. You’re not alone.
So what’s the problem? Why has the Great Commission turned into what some are calling the “Great Omission”? Honestly, one of the biggest reasons is this: no one ever showed you how to do it. You were told to go make disciples, but never trained to be a disciple maker.
Here at Bridgeway, we want to invite you to take a step onto a discipleship journey—a lifelong one. Along the way, you’ll see how God can use your life in ways you may have never imagined.
Ready to get started? Check out the videos from our our discipleship pastor, Perry Pugh, on how to start a discipleship group and take your first step today!
What Is a Disciple, Anyway?
Perry Pugh, our discipleship pastor, kicks off the series by asking a big question: why do so many Christians believe in the Great Commission… but don’t actually do it? Spoiler: most of us just don’t know how. He breaks it down simply—being a disciple means following and learning from Jesus, like an apprentice. It all starts with prayer, reflection, and saying “yes” to the journey.
How Discipleship Fits Into Our Mission
Our mission at Bridgeway is simple: helping each other follow Jesus by building gospel bridges to Starkville and beyond. Perry introduces five traits every disciple should have and explains how D-Groups—small, tight-knit crews—help make it all happen. Think Scripture, prayer, memory verses, and real talk. Let’s go!
Kick-Starting a D-Group
Starting a D-Group? It’s easier than you think. First, pray. Then, invite a few people (yep, just ask them!). Make a solid commitment to each other, and keep investing in the relationship—inside and outside your weekly meetups. Perry walks you through the four simple steps: Pray, Invite, Commit, Invest. That’s it.
How to Run a D-Group
Here’s your game plan for a one-hour D-Group that’s actually meaningful. Start with prayer, share real life, quote your memory verse, dive into your H.E.A.R. journals, and wrap it up with more prayer. Stick to this rhythm and it’ll feel natural in no time. Bonus: no one feels like they’re stuck in a never-ending meeting.
Learn How to H.E.A.R. Journal
This one’s all about the H.E.A.R. journal—your go-to method for reading the Bible with purpose. Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond (get it?). It’s simple, doable, and life-changing. Perry also answers the big questions: yes, D-Groups are same-gender, meet weekly, and stick to Scripture. You’ll get a starter kit and loads of support. Let’s grow together!