Spiritual Talk Ep. 27: Walking the Journey of Discipleship

Karen Scheepers
Apr 19
3 min read

In episode 27 of Spiritual Talk, Pieter Conradie welcomes back Werner Broodryk to explore a topic central to Christian life, but often misunderstood or overlooked: discipleship.

While the word “discipleship” may feel familiar, this episode reminds us that its meaning runs deep. It’s not just a program or Bible study group. It’s about committing to walk with someone in love, truth, and transformation. It’s about choosing relationship over routine and showing up for someone, not once, but consistently.

What is discipleship, really?

At its core, discipleship means walking with others as they grow in Christ. It’s not just about evangelism or conversion, it’s the journey after the “yes” to Jesus. It’s where real transformation happens, often in the mundane: through coffee conversations, emotional support, truth-telling, and steady presence.

Werner explains:

“When Jesus sent his disciples, He didn’t say ‘Go and make converts.’ He said, ‘Go and make disciples.’ That means showing people the way, helping them grow, fall, and get up again. It takes time, sacrifice, and love.”

The Cost of Discipleship

One of the most powerful parts of the episode is the honest discussion around the cost of discipleship. It’s not free. It will cost you time, energy, emotion, and sometimes finances. It demands intentionality, sacrifice, and most of all, love.

“Discipleship isn’t convenient, it’s costly. But so is love. God gave His Son while the world was still in sin. That’s the model of love and discipleship we’re called to.” Pieter

This sacrifice, however, bears eternal fruit. A life touched through real discipleship leads to another life touched, and so the Kingdom expands.

Discipleship Means Showing a New Way to Live

Discipleship doesn’t mean being perfect, it means being present. It means saying, “I’ve made mistakes too. Let me walk with you.” Many young believers are left asking, “What’s next?” after encountering Jesus. Without guidance, they may fall back into the habits of the world.

That’s where the disciple-maker steps in.

Werner shares how even things that once seemed enjoyable in a worldly life lose their appeal when we grow spiritually.

“The things I did when I was lost, yes, they were fun. But now I find joy that lasts. Now I party differently. I surround myself with people who love Jesus. I live for something bigger.”

The Role of Community and Consistency

Discipleship thrives in community. This episode highlights the importance of walking with others, not just talking at them. It means meeting people where they are, just like Jesus met Zacchaeus, the woman at the well, or the leper.

Discipleship happens in:

Everyday conversations
Coffee shop moments
Honest prayers
Parties that reflect joy, not just hype
Holding someone accountable with love

And yes, sometimes it means lovingly confronting a friend with truth, even when it’s hard. Because love doesn’t always say what’s easy; it says what’s necessary.

Discipleship in a Fast-Paced, Shallow World

One of the episode’s most compelling points is the contrast between the depth of discipleship and the shallowness of modern life. AI, social media, and instant gratification have shortened our attention spans and made us expect quick fixes in every area of life, including our faith.

“We’re so used to fast results that we forget the spiritual life takes time. Growth takes roots. Discipleship takes relationship.” Werner

Final Thoughts: Truth Over Trends

Discipleship is about trading comfort for calling, noise for truth, and isolation for relationship. It’s saying, “I’ll walk with you. I’ll listen. I’ll guide. I’ll show you how I follow Jesus, not perfectly, but wholeheartedly.”