If you’ve ever felt like you need a master’s degree in theology just to lead a simple conversation about Jesus, I have some good news for you: No seminary degree is required.
When Jesus called His first disciples, He didn't start with a syllabus or a classroom. He started with an invitation: "Follow me" (Matthew 4:19). At Disciple Maker, we believe that the most effective way to grow the Kingdom is to return to that simple, Jesus-centered model.
I’m Dr. Adam Grill, and I’ve spent years watching people overcomplicate the Great Commission. Many well-meaning believers want to know how to start a bible study group, but they get paralyzed by the "what-ifs." What if I don't have the answers? What if nobody shows up? What if I'm not a "leader"?
The truth is, making disciples is about relationship, not perfection. If you have a heart for people and a smartphone, you already have the tools you need to change a life. Here are five practical, actionable steps to get your group off the ground and start making disciples who make disciples.
Step 1: Pray and Gather Your "Few"
Jesus had crowds, but He invested in twelve. And even within that twelve, He had a core three. When you are figuring out how to make disciples, don't feel like you need to fill a stadium.
Start by asking God for two or three people who are hungry to grow. Look for "F.A.T." people, Faithful, Available, and Teachable.
Scripture Focus: “And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach.” , Mark 3:14
The goal of your group isn't just to "run a meeting." It’s to be with each other and with Jesus. Start by reaching out to friends, neighbors, or coworkers. A simple text works wonders: "Hey, I'm starting a small group to walk through the teachings of Jesus together. Would you be interested in joining me?"
Step 2: Choose Your Discipleship Curriculum
One of the biggest hurdles for new leaders is knowing what to actually study. You want something that is biblically sound but also easy to facilitate.
In the past, you had to carry around heavy workbooks or print out dozens of sheets. Today, we can leverage technology to keep things focused. This is why we built the Disciple Maker app.
Choosing the right discipleship curriculum shouldn't be stressful. Within the app, we offer Bible-based courses that guide you through the process. Whether you are leading a group of new believers or seasoned saints, having a structured yet flexible guide allows you to focus on the people rather than the paperwork.
When selecting your path, look for:
- Biblical Foundation: Does it point back to Scripture, or just someone’s opinion?
- Ease of Use: Can a busy person pick it up and understand it?
- Reproducibility: Could a member of your group lead this same study with someone else next month?
Our features are designed specifically to take the guesswork out of the "what" so you can focus on the "who."
Step 3: Keep it Simple and Relational
The early church didn't have dedicated buildings; they met in homes and broke bread together (Acts 2:42-47). Your group should feel like a family, not a lecture hall.
Pick a consistent time and place. It could be your living room, a local coffee shop, or even a park. The key is consistency. If people know that every Tuesday at 7:00 PM is "discipleship time," they are more likely to prioritize it.
Pro-Tip for Busy Leaders: Sometimes life happens, or the internet goes out. We’ve ensured the Disciple Maker app has offline accessibility. This means even if you're meeting in a basement or a remote area with limited Wi-Fi, your resources are always available.
Keep your format minimalist:
- Connect: 15 minutes of "how is your soul?"
- Read: Open the Bible (or the app) and read the passage together.
- Discuss: Use the guided questions.
- Apply: What is one thing you will obey this week based on what we read?
Step 4: Facilitate, Don't Lecture (The Power of One to One Discipleship)
The biggest mistake a small group leader can make is talking too much. You aren't there to be the "expert"; you are there to be a guide.
Real transformation often happens in the margins. While the group setting is great for community, one to one discipleship is where the deep roots are grown. Encourage your group members to pair up during the week to check in on their progress and pray for each other.
Scripture Focus: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” : Proverbs 27:17
By facilitating rather than lecturing, you empower others to engage with the Word of God for themselves. If someone asks a hard question, don't feel like you have to have the answer right then. Say, "That's a great question. Let's look into that together this week." This models humility and shows that we are all learners at the feet of Jesus.
If you find yourself making some common leadership blunders, check out our post on 7 mistakes you’re making with your church discipleship program.
Step 5: Focus on Multiplication
The goal of a Bible study group isn't to stay together forever. It's to multiply.
In the Disciple Maker app, we’ve built in tools to help you track discipleship progress. This isn't about "counting heads"; it's about making sure "hearts are accounted for." When you see a member of your group growing in their faith and starting to share what they've learned with others, that is the ultimate win.
Scripture Focus: “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” : 2 Timothy 2:2
Think of your group as a training ground. From day one, tell your members: "My goal isn't just to lead you; my goal is to help you lead someone else." This mindset shift changes the entire dynamic of the group. It moves from passive consumption to active mission.
Start Today
Making disciples is the most rewarding work on the planet. It’s how we fulfill our purpose and how we see our communities transformed. Don't wait until you feel "ready." Start with prayer, grab a couple of friends, and download the tools that will help you stay on track.
At Disciple Maker, we’re here to walk with you. We want to see every believer equipped to lead others closer to Jesus.
Are you ready to start?
Download the Disciple Maker App and take the first step today. No seminary degree required: just a willing heart and a step of faith.
Blessings,
Dr. Adam Grill
CEO, Disciple Maker