Preaching as Discipleship: Growing in Faith Through the Power of the Word

More Than a Message

Preaching has long been at the heart of Christian ministry, but is it truly effective in shaping disciples? Some argue that sermons feel too distant from daily life to foster meaningful spiritual growth. However, when preaching is approached with intentionality, it becomes a powerful act of discipleship—guiding believers beyond passive listening and into a transformational journey.

Preaching is not just about delivering information; it is an invitation to a deeper walk with Christ. Through the spoken word, faith is nurtured, convictions are challenged, and believers are equipped to embody the gospel in their daily lives. In this article, we will explore how preaching serves as a vital tool for discipleship, countering common criticisms and looking to Jesus as the ultimate model of preaching that transforms lives.

The Power of Preaching in Discipleship

From the earliest days of the church, the proclamation of God’s word has been essential to discipleship. Scripture itself affirms the power of preaching:

“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” – Romans 10:17

When a sermon is spirit-filled and delivered with genuine intent, it does more than inform—it stirs hearts, provokes thought, and challenges listeners to live out their faith. A well-crafted sermon calls believers into a deeper relationship with God, equips them for His mission, and sends them out to build His kingdom. In this way, preaching becomes a transformative tool that encourages both the preacher and the congregation to grow beyond their current spiritual state.

The greatest example of preaching as discipleship comes from Jesus Himself. His sermons were never just about imparting knowledge; they were about transformation. Consider the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). Jesus didn’t merely teach theological concepts; He called His listeners to live differently. His preaching was an invitation into a new way of life. He walked with His disciples, answered their questions, and demonstrated the truths He preached. Jesus’ ministry reminds us that preaching should not be separate from discipleship but a key part of it. When preachers follow His model—teaching truth while walking alongside their congregation—their sermons become catalysts for genuine spiritual growth.

Overcoming Criticism: Can Preaching Foster Deep Commitment?

Some critics argue that preaching is too detached from believer’s everyday realities, making it ineffective in fostering deep, relational discipleship. The concern is that true discipleship requires more than listening to a sermon—it demands personal engagement, accountability, and ongoing mentorship.

While these concerns are valid, they overlook the fact that preaching is not meant to be a passive experience. A spirit-filled sermon is not a one-way transmission of information but a conversation starter, a call to reflection, and an invitation to action. When preachers deliver messages that resonate with real-life challenges, they create space for ongoing dialogue and communal growth.

Discipleship is not confined to small groups or one-on-one mentorship—it also happens in the gathered body of believers. Through preaching, the church as a whole is shaped, challenged, and mobilized to live out the gospel.

Why Preaching is More Than a Sermon

Preaching extends far beyond the Sunday service—it is a foundational tool for shaping discipleship throughout the week. A sermon is not just a speech given from the pulpit; it is a call to transformation that should linger in the minds and hearts of believers long after they leave the church. When preaching is approached with intentionality, it moves beyond the realm of knowledge-sharing and becomes a guiding force for spiritual growth. A truly effective sermon does not merely provide information but compels action, challenging listeners to embody biblical truths in their everyday lives.

Discipleship is not a passive process; it requires engagement, reflection, and application. Preaching, when understood as a discipling practice, encourages believers to internalize God’s word in a way that reshapes their thoughts, decisions, and behaviors. A preacher’s responsibility is not just to instruct but to equip—helping believers bridge the gap between what they hear and how they live. In this way, a sermon is not just an isolated message but a catalyst for ongoing spiritual formation, reinforcing the call to walk faithfully in Christ.

Furthermore, preaching should not be seen as a one-way monologue but as an interactive and communal experience. A powerful sermon sparks dialogue, both within the church and beyond, as believers wrestle with its implications and apply its truths in their lives. Whether through small group discussions, personal reflection, or daily conversations, the impact of a sermon continues long after the words have been spoken. Preaching, when approached as an act of discipleship, serves as a bridge between hearing and doing—between faith and practice—ensuring that the word of God is not just received but lived.

The Lasting Impact of Preaching on Spiritual Growth

When approached as an act of discipleship, preaching becomes more than a weekly ritual—it is a sacred means of shaping hearts, renewing minds, and calling believers into a deeper walk with Christ. Each sermon serves as a step in a believer’s faith journey, urging them to hear and embody the Word. Discipleship flourishes within the gathered body of believers, where the preached word stirs hearts and compels action. When preachers view their role as disciple- makers, they transform how people engage with God’s Word—moving from passive listeners to active participants in their faith. In a world where faith is often challenged, the pulpit remains a guiding light, shaping believers in knowledge and true, lived discipleship. The question is not whether preaching can be an effective tool for discipleship but whether we will embrace it as one.

By Darron Goodrich

Darron Goodrich lives in St. Louis, Missouri, with his wife, Samone Goodrich, whom he has been married to for five years. He serves as the Associate Pastor of Faith Community Bible Church in Jennings, Missouri, where he is dedicated to teaching, preaching, and community outreach. With over 15 years in ministry, Darron is passionate about helping others in faith and fostering spiritual growth.