by Hector Belen

Donna, Texas, a rural town near the border with Mexico, is home to Iglesia Cántico Nuevo. This church has become a beacon of hope in this economically challenged community, offering physical and spiritual nourishment. Iglesia Cántico Nuevo has reached many families through its weekly food pantry ministry, leading some to join the church.

When Moises and Rosa Vazquez joined the church’s ministry team, they brought a fresh passion for discipleship. Two years ago, at the General Council in Spokane, Washington, Rosa heard about the new church-based discipleship program for The Alliance, Project 2819, and immediately began imagining the potential within her community. She started using its materials with the church’s youth group during Sunday morning sessions. The results were remarkable. The students memorized Bible verses each week, applied what they learned, and shared it with their friends. Attendance averaged between 11 and 17 students.

“I have seen a big change in the lives of my students,” Rosa shares. “There is a strong desire to know God more personally. Some have even become more active in the church.”

Rosa’s discipleship efforts have extended beyond the church walls. As a registered nurse at a hospital in McAllen, Texas, she shares the gospel with her coworkers. Using Project 2819 materials, she launched a weekly prayers meeting during lunch breaks. The group, which includes individuals from various religious backgrounds, has grown to an average attendance of 12 to 15 participants.

One group member, Azenath Saenz, stood out for her curiosity and leadership potential. Rosa invited her to take on a leadership role in the prayer meetings, and Azenath’s passion for Christ has since blossomed. Under her guidance, the group continues to thrive, serving as a testament to the multiplying effect of discipleship.

When asked about her hopes for Project 2819, Rosa says, “I desire that more people come to know who Jesus is, that they may know more about what the Bible says, and that they can practice what they have learned. Project 2819 has been an excellent tool that has opened the door to sharing and becoming disciples of Christ, willing to disciple others for His glory!”

What is Biblical Discipleship?

Discipleship is a word that is often used casually within the church world, yet it holds a profound and transformative purpose. When we think of discipleship, the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:19–20 immediately come to mind: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This Great Commission challenges believers to embrace discipleship as a divine mandate, not an optional endeavor.

But what exactly is biblical discipleship? Simply put, it is learning from Jesus Christ, imitating His life and teachings, and becoming more like Him. This process is the heartbeat of spiritual growth and the cornerstone of Christian living. Understanding and implementing biblical discipleship is essential for both individual believers and the church as a whole.

Launching Project 2819

Rooted in the Great Commission, Project 2819 seeks to partner with churches to develop disciples committed to spiritual growth and guiding others on their faith journeys. The goal is not just to create followers but to cultivate disciplemakers who will carry the gospel to the ends of the earth.

Why is disciplemaking so crucial? Acts 6:7 highlights the transformative impact of discipleship: “So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.” Biblical discipleship achieves three key objectives:

1. Identifying and Developing Leaders—Jesus modeled this by choosing 12 disciples to follow Him closely (Mark 3:13–14). Through intentional mentorship, He prepared them to lead and expand His mission after His Ascension. Today, discipleship continues to raise faithful leaders who are deeply rooted in Christ.
2. Creating a Missional Culture—Discipleship fosters a missional mindset, motivating believers to share the gospel with the lost. It instills a passion for evangelism and equips disciples to reach their communities and beyond.
3. Expanding the Church—When disciples make disciples, the Church grows exponentially and spiritually. This multiplication leads to a thriving, vibrant Body of Christ.

Real-Life Impact

One example of discipleship’s transformative power can be found at Altoona Alliance Church (AAC) in Altoona, Pennsylvania. This congregation is “a loving and compassionate family of believers dedicated to sharing all of Jesus with all of the world.” Through intentional discipleship, AAC encourages its members to engage in spiritual mentoring with more mature believers who can help them grow in the deeper life.

Pastor Tim McGarvey discovered Project 2819 in Spokane and began implementing its resources shortly after. Since then, AAC has completed five of the six-week series provided by Project 2819, covering topics such as Christ our Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King and sharing Jesus. They are currently engaged in the series titled “All of Jesus for All the World.”

Pastor Tim has utilized these teachings within an adult Bible study group, which meets every Sunday evening. Attendance has ranged from 12 to 30 participants, with the studies on Christ as Sanctifier and Coming King generating the highest interest levels. According to Pastor Tim, the resources have deepened participants’ understanding of Alliance theology and sparked spiritual growth within the church. “We have people coming to our church who are new to The Alliance,” he says. “These studies have helped them learn more about The Alliance and helped all attending dig deeper into these themes.”

The Ripple Effect of Discipleship

The stories of Iglesia Cántico Nuevo and Altoona Alliance Church illustrate the profound impact of biblical discipleship. Through intentional teaching, mentorship, and practical resources like Project 2819, these churches have witnessed spiritual growth, community engagement, and the development of new leaders.

Discipleship is not merely a program, but a lifestyle rooted in obedience to Christ. It drives the Church’s mission, holds faith communities together, and catalyzes spiritual transformation. When believers embrace their role as disciples and disciplemakers, the ripple effect extends beyond their immediate circles, touching lives and shaping eternity.

A Call to Action

The call to discipleship is clear, urgent, and universal. As followers of Christ, we are all commissioned to make disciples, teaching others to obey His commands and live for His glory. When we take this calling seriously, lives are changed, communities are transformed, and the gospel spreads with power.

As you reflect on the Great Commission, consider how you can participate in this life-changing work. Whether its mentoring a new believer, leading a small group, or sharing the gospel in your workplace, every effort counts. Tools like Project 2819 can provide valuable resources to guide and equip you on this journey. Remember, discipleship is not about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about walking alongside others as we strive to become more like Christ. As we engage in this sacred mission, we hold onto Jesus’ promise: “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

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