Introduction: The Journey of Discipleship

What does it really mean to follow Jesus?

For many believers today, the Journey of Discipleship feels unclear. We know we are called to be disciples, but what does that look like in daily life? How do we walk this path faithfully in a world that pulls us in every direction?

Discipleship is not a slogan, a programme, or a church event. It is the lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus, in thought, word, and action. It is a journey that begins with revelation and continues through transformation.

Yet, if we are honest, many Christians struggle to understand how to walk this journey, often grappling with fundamental questions such as:

• What does God expect of me?
• How do I grow deeper instead of just busier?
• What does maturity look like?
• Where does this journey lead?

These are real questions. The modern church is full of activity but often shallow in formation. We attend services, serve in ministries, and read devotionals, but our hearts remain unchanged. We may know about Jesus, but do we truly know Him?

That is why Jesus’ question still matters today:

“Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16:15)

This question is not meant to make us feel good. It is meant to make us be good, to become the kind of disciples whose lives reflect Christ in every sphere. This book is written for that purpose: “To help you understand what the journey of discipleship truly involves and what it costs.”

It will not promise shortcuts or quick results. Discipleship is not instant. It is formed in the unseen places; in prayer, obedience, surrender, and perseverance. It takes time, humility, and grace.

In 2007, my then Senior Pastor, Reverend Edmund Chan, shared with us the framework known as the 8 Core Curriculum of Discipleship. It took me ten years to begin to understand it, and nearly another ten to internalise, apply, and adapt it into this book. These eight cores have become a roadmap for my own walk with God, shaping how I live, serve, and grow. This book is my attempt to pass that journey on to a new generation; to help others walk the same path of discovery and transformation.

The end goal of this journey is not success, comfort, or spiritual knowledge. The goal is Christlikeness, to think as He thought, love as He loved, obey as He obeyed, and serve as He served.

Each chapter in this book will guide you through:

• A biblical verse
• Objectives
• Learning Outcomes
• A biblical truth; what Scripture says.
• A reflection on life; what it means for us today.
• A call to obedience; how we live it out.
• Questions for reflection: to help you think, pray, and respond.
• Key Takeaways
• Summary

If you are looking for inspiration, this book may challenge you. If you are looking for transformation, this book may equip you. Because discipleship is not about feeling better; it’s about becoming better.

And it all begins with a question Jesus asked,

“Who do you say I am?”