Vineyard Church North Phoenix | Vineyard Discipleship

Discipleship is a high value here at Vineyard Church North Phoenix. Discipleship is learning to be like and act like Jesus. We believe that we are to help all believers become mature Christians.

George Barna defines discipleship as “being and reproducing spiritually mature zealots for Christ” or “being a complete and competent follower of Jesus Christ.” Discipleship should create Christians who are radical for Jesus Christ; they should (again using Barna’s terms):

• Experience a changed future through their acceptance of Jesus Christ as savior and the Christian faith as their defining philosophy of life.
• Undergo a changed lifestyle, manifested through different values, goals, perspectives, activities, and relationships.
• Mature into a changed worldview, attributable to a deeper comprehension of the true meaning and impact of Christianity. Truth becomes an entirely God-driven reality to a disciple. Pursuing the truths of God becomes the disciple’s lifelong quest.

According to Barna discipleship doesn’t just happen. “It occurs when there is an intentional and strategic thrust to facilitate spiritual maturity. Specifically, the church must have a philosophy of ministry that emphasizes the significance of discipleship, and promotes a process for facilitating such maturity.”

Rick Warren wrote, “Spiritual growth does not just happen once you are saved, even if you attend services regularly. Churches are filled with people who have attended services for their entire lives, yet are still spiritual babies… The truth is this: Spiritual growth is intentional. It requires commitment and effort to grow.”

One of the ways that people at VCFNP learn to be like Jesus is by joining one of our small groups. Our small group leaders are trained to help people grow in their faith and grow in the application of that faith in their daily lives. Our model for Vineyard small group leaders is how Jesus led and helped the Apostles. Our small group leaders are the first line of pastoral care. If you interested in joining a small group, check out the Small Group section of the website.

Another way you will learn to be and act like Jesus is by taking one of our classes. Here at VCNP we have classes for brand new believers, people who have been Christians for years and everyone in between. See the Classes section of the website for more information.