Discipleship is at theheart of the Christian faith, a call to follow Jesus, grow in His likeness, andshare His love with the world. Yet, in our fast-paced, technology-driven age,the idea of discipleship can feel distant or disconnected from daily life. Thegood news?
Scripture and historyoffer us a treasure trove of ancient practices that remain profoundly relevanttoday. These time-tested disciplines provide wisdom, structure, and depth tomodern discipleship, helping us live out our faith with intention and purpose.
The early Christiansdidn’t have apps, notifications, or instant access to information, yet theycultivated a vibrant faith that transformed lives and communities. By exploringtheir practices, rooted in Scripture and shaped by devotion, we can rediscovera richer, more grounded approach to following Christ in the 21st century.
The early churchthrived through simple yet powerful habits. Acts 2:42 paints a picture of their life:“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to thebreaking of bread and to prayer.” These foundational practices weren’t justrituals, they were a way of being, a rhythm that sustained their faith amidpersecution and uncertainty.
Let’s unpack whatthese ancient disciplines teach us about modern discipleship.
The early believersimmersed themselves in the apostles’ teaching, which became the foundation ofthe New Testament. They hungered for God’s Word, seeing it as life-givingtruth. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lampfor my feet, a light on my path.” For them, Scripture wasn’t optional, it wasessential for knowing God and living faithfully.
Modern Lesson: Today, we’re bombarded withinformation, but not all of it draws us closer to Christ. Discipleship beginswith prioritizing God’s Word. Whether through daily Bible reading, group study,or meditation on a single verse, engaging with Scripture keeps us anchored. Setaside time to listen, not just to read, but to let God’s truth shape yourthoughts and actions.
The early churchdidn’t follow Jesus in isolation. They met in homes, shared meals, andsupported one another. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges, “Let us consider howwe may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together.”Fellowship wasn’t a social add-on, it was a lifeline that strengthened theirfaith.
Modern Lesson: In an age of individualism anddigital connections, authentic community is more vital than ever. Discipleshipthrives when we commit to real relationships, whether in a small group, church,or mentorship. Seek out believers who challenge and encourage you. Share yourstruggles and victories. Together, you’ll reflect Christ’s love more fully thanyou could alone.
Communion, or theLord’s Supper, was a sacred act for early Christians, recalling Jesus’sacrifice and uniting them as one body. Beyond the formal ritual, sharing mealswas a daily expression of gratitude and connection. In Luke22:19, Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me,” tying thispractice to His presence among them.
Modern Lesson: Breaking bread, whether throughCommunion or a simple meal, reminds us of our dependence on Christ and eachother. In modern discipleship, make space for shared meals or coffee withfellow believers. These moments deepen bonds and ground us in gratitude. If youlead others, invite them to the table; it’s a powerful way to model Jesus’hospitality.
Prayer was theheartbeat of the early church. They prayed together in times of joy, crisis,and everything in between. Philippians 4:6 instructs, “Do not be anxiousabout anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, withthanksgiving, present your requests to God.” For them, prayer wasn’t a lastresort, it was a first response.
Modern Lesson: In our busy lives, prayer canslip to the margins. Yet, discipleship without prayer is like a plant withoutwater, it withers. Ancient practices teach us to weave prayer into our days,morning petitions, evening thanksgivings, or quick breaths of dependence onGod. Start small: a five-minute pause to listen and speak to Him. Over time, itbecomes a rhythm that sustains your faith.
The early Christianslived simply, sharing their possessions with those in need. Acts4:32 says, “All the believers were one in heart and mind… theyshared everything they had.” This wasn’t forced, it flowed from heartstransformed by Christ’s love. Their generosity stood out in a greedy world.
Modern Lesson: Today’s culture pushesconsumerism, but discipleship calls us to simplicity. What do you cling to thatcould bless others? Giving, whether money, time, or skills, frees us fromself-focus and aligns us with Jesus’ mission. Try a one-off act of generositythis week and watch how it shifts your perspective.
Fasting was common inthe early church, often paired with prayer to seek God’s guidance orbreakthrough. Jesus taught in Matthew 6:16-18 to fast humbly, not for show. Itwas a way to deny the flesh and draw closer to the Spirit.
Modern Lesson: Fasting isn’t just about food,it’s about refocusing. In a distracted world, try fasting from social media,screens, or a comfort habit. Use that time to pray or reflect on God’s voice.Even a day-long fast can sharpen your spiritual awareness and renew yourcommitment to discipleship.
Though rooted in theOld Testament, the principle of Sabbath carried into the early church as a timeto rest and worship. Exodus 20:8 commands, “Remember the Sabbath day by keepingit holy.” It was a gift, a pause to trust God’s provision and presence.
Modern Lesson: We’re addicted to hustle, butrest is a radical act of faith. Modern discipleship needs Sabbath, a day oreven an hour to stop, worship, and recharge. It’s not laziness; it’s obediencethat reminds us God sustains us, not our striving. Experiment with a tech-freeevening or a quiet walk, see how it restores your soul.
The early Christiansdidn’t keep their faith private. They shared the Gospel despite risks, as Acts 1:8 commissions: “You will be mywitnesses… to the ends of the earth.” Their boldness came from a deepconviction in Christ’s power.
Modern Lesson: Discipleship isn’t passive, it’sactive. You don’t need a megaphone; start with a conversation. Share how God’sworking in your life with a friend or coworker. Ancient believers teach us thatwitnessing flows naturally from a heart changed by Jesus. Step out in small,brave ways, and trust God with the rest.
These practices aren’trelics, they’re tools for spiritual formation. They strip away the noiseof modern life and draw us back to the essentials: God’s Word, His people, andHis presence. The beauty of ancient discipleship is its simplicity, it doesn’trequire wealth, status, or technology, just a willing heart.
Imagine weaving theseinto your week: a morning in Scripture, a meal with friends, a prayer beforebed, a gift to someone in need. Over time, they become less about “doing” andmore about “being”, a disciple shaped by Christ’s love and wisdom.
Ancient practicesremind us that discipleship isn’t a solo journey or a checklist. It’s alifestyle rooted in dependence on God and connection with others. By embracingthese disciplines, we grow closer to Jesus and equip ourselves to guide othersin faith.
If you’re longing todeepen your walk with Christ, start today. Pick one practice, prayer,fellowship, or generosity, and lean into it. Ask God to show you how it fitsyour life. He’s faithful to meet you there, just as He did with the earlychurch.
For more resources ongrowing as a disciple, visit Exponent Group.If you’re ready to explore these ancient practices further, check out our guideat Exponent Group Discipleship Practices. Together, let’s liveout a faith that echoes the past and transforms the present.
