List of 16 on discipleship books

When embarking on the transformative journey of discipleship, it's essential to seek guidance from those who have illuminated the path before us. That's why we've curated this exclusive list of the most profound books on discipleship, each a beacon of wisdom and inspiration. From the timeless insights of The Cost of Discipleship to the revolutionary teachings of The Divine Conspiracy and The Spirit of the Disciplines, these literary masterpieces offer a roadmap for navigating the complexities of following Christ.

Through these pages, you'll discover the profound teachings of master theologians and spiritual guides, whose words have shaped generations of believers. Their insights will challenge your understanding of discipleship, inviting you to embrace a deeper commitment to God and a life of purpose and meaning. Whether you're a seasoned follower or just beginning to explore the Christian faith, this list will ignite your passion for discipleship and empower you to live a life worthy of your calling.

NameAuthorPublishedRate (goodreads)
1. The Cost of DiscipleshipDietrich Bonhoeffer 1995 by Touchstone

46K + ( 4.3)

2. The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in GodDallas Willard 1998 by Harper

15K + ( 4.22)

3. The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes LivesDallas Willard 1999 by HarperOne

10K + ( 4.14)

4. The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus's Essential Teachings on DiscipleshipDallas Willard 2006 by HarperOne

2K + ( 4.23)

5. Live No Lies: Recognize and Resist the Three Enemies That Sabotage Your PeaceJohn Mark Comer 2021 by WaterBrook

11K + ( 4.49)

6. Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples a Few at a TimeGreg Ogden 2003 by IVP

593 + ( 4.08)

7. The Master Plan of EvangelismRobert E. Coleman 2006 by Revell

8K + ( 4.11)

List of 16 on discipleship books

1. The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Contributor: Eric Metaxas(Foreword)

A standout work from 1937 on discipleship and the Christian faith

Information
PublisherTouchstone
Published1995
Page320
LanguageEnglish
Rate

46K + ( 4.3)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Religion

In an era of spiritual complacency, Dietrich Bonhoeffer's The Cost of Discipleship stands as a clarion call to those seeking a deeper, more authentic relationship with Christ. This seminal work, hailed as one of the most influential theological texts of the 20th century, challenges the notion of "cheap grace" – a superficial, self-serving faith that distorts the true nature of discipleship. Bonhoeffer invites us to embrace "costly grace" instead, a grace that demands sacrifice, obedience, and an unwavering commitment to following Christ's teachings.

Through a profound exploration of the Sermon on the Mount, Bonhoeffer unveils the radical nature of Jesus' call to discipleship. He argues that true discipleship is not a passive acceptance of doctrine, but an active, transformative journey that involves denying ourselves, taking up our crosses, and following Christ. Bonhoeffer's words resonate deeply with those who yearn for a faith that transcends mere intellectual assent, a faith that permeates every aspect of our lives and empowers us to live as true witnesses of God's kingdom.

✨ Read more: best books by dallas willard

2. The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in God by Dallas Willard

Information
PublisherHarper
Published1998
Page448
LanguageEnglish
Rate

15K + ( 4.22)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity
  • Theology

From the very first pages, this book pulled me into a whirlwind of indescribable emotions. The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard is a groundbreaking work that challenges everything I thought I knew about discipleship. It's a book that will ignite your faith and empower you to live a life of purpose and meaning.

Willard argues that the Christian life is not about following a set of rules or adhering to a particular dogma. It's about entering into a divine conspiracy with God, a conspiracy to restore the world to its original beauty and wholeness. Willard masterfully weaves together biblical teaching, science, and personal anecdotes to paint a vivid picture of what this conspiracy looks like in practice. He shows us how to experience God's presence in our daily lives, how to discern his will, and how to live in accordance with his kingdom. If you're ready to embark on a journey of transformation, I highly recommend picking up a copy of The Divine Conspiracy. It's a book that has the power to change your life.

3. The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives by Dallas Willard

A Standout Work from 1988 on Discipleship that Unveils God's Transformative Power

Information
PublisherHarperOne
Published1999
Page288
LanguageEnglish
Rate

10K + ( 4.14)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity
  • Theology
  • Faith

From the very first pages, The Spirit of the Disciplines by Dallas Willard captivated me with its profound insights into the transformative power of spiritual practices. Willard argues that the key to living a life of purpose and meaning lies in the practice of spiritual disciplines, such as solitude, fasting, and meditation. These disciplines are not about self-denial or legalism, but rather about aligning our lives with God's purposes and becoming more like Jesus.

Willard writes, "The spiritual disciplines are not techniques for manipulating God or getting what we want. They are ways of opening ourselves to God's transforming power." Through the practice of these disciplines, we can experience God's presence more deeply, discern his will more clearly, and live in accordance with his kingdom. The Spirit of the Disciplines is an essential guide for anyone who wants to grow in their faith and live a life that is truly pleasing to God.

4. The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus's Essential Teachings on Discipleship by Dallas Willard

Learn practical ways to follow Jesus' teachings on discipleship in daily life.

Information
PublisherHarperOne
Published2006
Page256
LanguageEnglish
Rate

2K + ( 4.23)

  • Christian
  • Christianity
  • Theology
  • Faith

The main character in this book, the church, has a broken heart. It has forgotten its first love, Jesus Christ, and has become entangled in a world of rules and regulations. The Great Omission by Dallas Willard is a clarion call to the church to return to its true purpose: making disciples of Jesus Christ.

Willard argues that the church has made a "great omission" by focusing on making "Christians" instead of making "disciples." He writes, "The word disciple occurs 269 times in the New Testament. Christian is found three times and was first introduced to refer precisely to disciples of Jesus.... The New Testament is a book about disciples, by disciples, and for disciples of Jesus Christ." Willard challenges us to rethink what it means to be a Christian. He says that it is not enough to simply believe in Jesus; we must also follow him. Discipleship is not a passive activity; it is an active, lifelong journey of learning and growing in Christ. The Great Omission is a must-read for anyone who wants to deepen their faith and live a life that is truly pleasing to God.

5. Live No Lies: Recognize and Resist the Three Enemies That Sabotage Your Peace by John Mark Comer

Information
PublisherWaterBrook
Published2021
Page336
LanguageEnglish
Rate

11K + ( 4.49)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity

This book is a journey into the depths of your soul, where you will encounter the three enemies that sabotage your peace: the devil, the flesh, and the world. Live No Lies by John Mark Comer is a clarion call to arms, a call to recognize and resist the lies that have taken root in our hearts and minds.

Comer writes, "We are at war. Not with a foreign government or domestic terrorists or a creepy new artificial intelligence hell-bent on taking over the world. No, it's a war we feel deep inside our own chests: we are at war with lies." These lies are not always easy to spot. They can be subtle, insidious, and they can lead us down a path of destruction. But Comer shows us how to identify these lies and how to fight back against them. He draws on the wisdom of ancient spiritual warriors, the saints of the Way, to develop a strategic plan for overcoming the three enemies. Live No Lies is a must-read for anyone who wants to live a life of freedom and peace.

6. Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples a Few at a Time by Greg Ogden

Information
PublisherIVP
Published2003
Page209
LanguageEnglish
Rate

593 + ( 4.08)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity

"Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples a Few at a Time" by Greg Ogden is the book you need to help you change the lives of your people. Set in a time where churchgoers complain about the lack of coherent plans for discipleship and spiritual growth, this book offers a new perspective - a perspective that emphasizes that the solution isn't in large-scale, finely-tuned, resource-heavy programs. Instead, Ogden emphasizes the recovery of Jesus' method of accomplishing life change by investing in just a few people at a time. "If Jesus had been interested in numbers, he would have stayed home and preached to the crowds that flocked to him" (Transforming Discipleship). Instead we see Jesus investing deeply in the lives of twelve disciples.

Ogden provides the insights and philosophy of ministry behind his earlier work, Discipleship Essentials. Together, these ground-breaking books have the potential to transform how your church transforms the lives of its people. In a world where people are looking for true meaning and purpose, Transforming Discipleship offers a way to help them find it. Through a unique blend of biblical insights and practical advice, Ogden shows how discipleship can become a self-replicating process with ongoing impact from generation to generation. So if you're looking for a way to make a real difference in the lives of others, then this is the book for you.

7. The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman

Information
PublisherRevell
Published2006
Page162
LanguageEnglish
Rate

8K + ( 4.11)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity
  • Theology

In today's fast-paced world, we often get lost in the hustle and bustle of life and forget the importance of sharing our faith with others. "The Master Plan of Evangelism" by Robert E. Coleman is a book that will help you to refocus your life on the Great Commission.

For more than forty years, this classic study has challenged and instructed more than 1.5 million readers in reaching the world for Christ. With a foreword by Billy Graham, The Master Plan of Evangelism will show every Christian how to minister to the people God brings into their lives. Instead of drawing on the latest popular fad or the newest selling technique, Robert E. Coleman looks to the Bible to find the answer to the question, "What was Christ's strategy for evangelism?" Through a thorough examination of the gospel accounts, Coleman points out unchanging, simple, yet profound biblical principles of how to emulate Christ to others. "Evangelism is not an option for the church. It is not a department of the church. It is the church." (The Master Plan of Evangelism). Pick up your copy today and learn how to share your faith with boldness and compassion.

8. Discipleship Essentials: A Guide to Building Your Life in Christ by Greg Ogden

Information
PublisherIntervarsity Pr
Published1998
Page223
LanguageEnglish
Rate

573 + ( 4.12)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity

Are you looking to grow in your faith and become more like Christ? "Discipleship Essentials: A Guide to Building Your Life in Christ" by Greg Ogden is the perfect resource for you. This practical workbook will help you develop spiritual maturity and strengthen your relationship with God.

Divided into 24 weekly sessions, Discipleship Essentials covers key disciplines, basic beliefs, essential character traits, and important activities of the Christian life. Each session includes a core truth presented in question/answer format, a memory verse and application study, an inductive Bible study, a reading on the theme for the week, and questions to draw out key principles from the reading. With space for writing questions, responses, and prayers, this workbook is ideal for individual study or for use in small groups. "Discipleship is not a program or a method. It is a way of life, a journey of transformation that takes place as we follow Jesus Christ and learn from him." (Discipleship Essentials). Pick up your copy today and start growing in your faith!

9. The Complete Book of Discipleship: On Being and Making Followers of Christ by Bill Hull

Learn about discipleship and its impact on society

Information
PublisherNavPress
Published2006
Page352
LanguageEnglish
Rate

445 + ( 4.02)

  • School
  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Religion
  • Christianity

As a child, I was captivated by the fairy tales my grandmother told. Reading "The Complete Book of Discipleship: On Being and Making Followers of Christ" by Bill Hull brought me back to those dreamy, magical days. This book is a comprehensive guide to discipleship that is well-organized and easy to read. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of the Christian faith to the practicalities of living out our faith in the world.

Hull writes with passion and conviction. He believes that discipleship is not just a nice idea, but an essential part of the Christian life. He challenges us to go beyond simply knowing about Jesus to actually following him. "Discipleship is not a program or a method. It is a way of life, a journey of transformation that takes place as we follow Jesus Christ and learn from him." (The Complete Book of Discipleship). If you are looking for a book that will help you grow in your faith and become a more effective disciple of Christ, then this is the book for you.

10. Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples by Francis Chan

Contributor: David Platt(Foreword), Mark Beuving(Collaborator)

Key highlights on discipleship include developing deep relationships, focusing on spiritual growth, and emphasizing practical application

Information
PublisherDavid C Cook
Published2012
Page333
LanguageEnglish
Rate

6K + ( 4.05)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity

In today's fast-paced world, we often get lost in the hustle and bustle of life and forget the importance of making disciples. "Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples" by Francis Chan, David Platt, and Mark Beuving is a book that will help you refocus your life on the Great Commission.

Designed for use in discipleship relationships and other focused settings, Multiply will equip you to carry out Jesus's ministry. Each of the twenty-four sessions in the book corresponds with an online video at www.multiplymovement.com, where New York Times bestselling author David Platt joins Francis in guiding you through each part of Multiply. "We often forget what an honor it is that God would offer relationship. We can get so accustomed to people begging us to follow God that we forget what a miracle it is that we are invited." (Multiply). One plus one plus one. Every copy of Multiply is designed to do what Jesus did: make disciples who make disciples who make disciples…. Until the world knows the truth of Jesus Christ. Pick up your copy today and start multiplying disciples!

11. The Lost Art of Disciple Making by LeRoy Eims

Discover valuable insights on discipleship with this inspiring spiritual guide.

Information
PublisherZondervan
Published1978
Page192
LanguageEnglish
Rate

800 + ( 4.1)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Religion
  • Christianity
  • Spirituality

Have you ever wondered what happens when we invest in the spiritual development of others? "The Lost Art of Disciple Making" by LeRoy Eims is a book that will help you discover the power of investing in the lives of new believers.

In simple, practical, and biblical terms, LeRoy Eims revives the lost art of disciple making. He explains how the early church discipled new Christians, how to meet the basic needs of a growing Christian, how to spot and train potential workers, and how to develop mature, godly leaders. "True growth takes time and tears and love and patience," Eims states. There is no instant maturity. This book examines the growth process in the life of a Christian and considers what nurture and guidance it takes to develop spiritually qualified workers in the church. If you are looking for a book that will help you grow in your faith and become a more effective disciple maker, then this is the book for you.

12. Follow Me: A Call to Die. A Call to Live. by David Platt

Information
PublisherTyndale Elevate
Published2013
Page245
LanguageEnglish
Rate

7K + ( 4.19)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity
  • Theology
  • Faith

In a world where everything revolves around self, Jesus said, "Slay yourself." "Follow Me: A Call to Die. A Call to Live." by David Platt is a book that will challenge you to rethink what it means to be a Christian.

Platt contends that multitudes of people around the world culturally think they are Christians yet biblically are not followers of Christ. He reveals a biblical picture of what it means to truly be a Christian, exploring the gravity of what we must forsake in this world, as well as the indescribable joy and deep satisfaction to be found when we live for Christ. The call to follow Jesus is not simply an invitation to pray a prayer; it's a summons to lose your life—and to find new life in him. This book will show you what such life actually looks like. "We want to be disciples as long as doing so does not intrude on our lifestyles, our preferences, our comforts, and even our religion." (Follow Me). If you are ready to take up your cross and follow Jesus, then this book is for you.

13. The Call to Discipleship by Karl Barth

Contributor: K.C. Hanson(Editor), Geoffrey William Bromiley(Translator)

Information
PublisherFORTRESS PRESS
Published2003
Page96
LanguageEnglish
Rate

105 + ( 4.06)

  • Nonfiction
  • Grad School
  • Religion
  • Theology
  • Discipleship

As the author once said, "Every story is a journey into the reader's heart." The Call to Discipleship by Karl Barth, K.C. Hanson, and Geoffrey William Bromiley is a vivid testament to that. In this brief yet profound essay, Barth takes readers on a journey into the heart of what it means to follow Jesus in faith.

Barth emphasizes that discipleship is not a passive or easy undertaking. It requires a radical detachment from the authority of possessions, a renunciation of personal glory, and a challenge to the fear and use of force. Discipleship dissolves self-evident personal attachments and demands a "better righteousness" that goes beyond actions to intentions and practices piety in secret. As Barth writes, "The command of Jesus... is issued with all the freedom and sovereignty of grace against which there can be no legitimate objections." This clarion call, he argues, is not only a command but also an invitation to a transformative journey of faith.

14. Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard J. Foster

Explore the transformative path of discipleship for spiritual growth and mindfulness in the modern world

Information
PublisherHarperSanFrancisco
Published1998
Page228
LanguageEnglish
Rate

38K + ( 4.2)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity
  • Theology
  • Faith

As a child, I was captivated by the fairy tales my grandmother told. Reading Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard J. Foster brought me back to those dreamy, magical days. Foster's book is a modern-day fable, a story of transformation and growth that will inspire you to embark on your own spiritual journey.

Celebration of Discipline explores the "classic disciplines," or central spiritual practices, of the Christian faith. Foster shows that it is only through these practices that the true path to spiritual growth can be found. He divides the disciplines into three movements of the Spirit: inward, outward, and corporate. The inward disciplines of meditation, prayer, fasting, and study offer avenues of personal examination and change. The outward disciplines of simplicity, solitude, submission, and service help us prepare to make the world a better place. The corporate disciplines of confession, worship, guidance, and celebration bring us nearer to one another and to God. Foster provides a wealth of examples demonstrating how these disciplines can become part of our daily activities—and how they can help us shed our superficial habits and "bring the abundance of God into our lives."

15. Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream by David Platt

Learn discipleship from a radical perspective

Information
PublisherMultnomah
Published2010
Page230
LanguageEnglish
Rate

65K + ( 4.18)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Religion

Set in the heart of the American Dream, Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream by David Platt is a call to discipleship that will challenge everything you thought you knew about following Jesus. Platt asks the hard questions: What is Jesus worth to you? Are you willing to leave behind everything for him?

Radical is a wake-up call for American Christians who have become complacent in their faith. Platt shows us what Jesus actually said about being his disciple—and it's not what we've been taught. True discipleship is costly. It requires us to deny ourselves, take up our crosses, and follow Jesus wherever he leads. But it's also the most rewarding thing we can do in this life. When we choose to follow Jesus radically, we will experience a joy and fulfillment that we never thought possible.

16. Not a Fan: Becoming a Completely Committed Follower of Jesus by Kyle Idleman

Information
PublisherZondervan
Published2011
Page215
LanguageEnglish
Rate

37K + ( 4.2)

  • Nonfiction
  • Christian
  • Christianity

From the very first pages, Not a Fan: Becoming a Completely Committed Follower of Jesus by Kyle Idleman pulled me into a whirlwind of indescribable emotions. Idleman's words are both convicting and inspiring, challenging me to examine my own heart and ask myself the hard question: Am I a true disciple of Jesus?

Not a Fan is not a book for those who are content to be lukewarm Christians. It's a call to discipleship, a call to follow Jesus with everything we have. Idleman writes, "Being a fan is easy. It doesn't cost you anything. You can come and go as you please. But being a follower is different. It requires commitment. It requires sacrifice. It requires putting Jesus first in your life." Not a Fan is a book that will challenge you to grow in your faith and become a more committed follower of Jesus.