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Discipleship vs. Mentoring: Understanding the Difference

Writer's picture: Darrell Stetler IIDarrell Stetler II

Updated: Jan 21

When we think about spiritual growth, the terms discipleship and mentoring often come up. Sometimes, they’re used interchangeably, but they aren’t quite the same thing. Understanding the differences—and the overlaps—is essential for anyone serious about fulfilling the Great Commission.


Discipleship: The Bigger Picture

Discipleship is a lifelong process of following Jesus, growing in His likeness, and obeying His teachings. It’s a comprehensive journey that involves:

  • Learning from Scripture

  • Practicing spiritual disciplines

  • Living in community with other believers

  • Sharing the Gospel with others

  • Serving in the body of Christ

At its core, discipleship is about holistic transformation. It encompasses every aspect of a believer’s life and leads them to become more like Christ.


Mentoring: A Subcategory of Discipleship

A mentor is someone who walks alongside a disciple in a more personal and focused way, offering guidance, encouragement, and accountability.


While discipleship involves a wide range of activities and influences, mentoring zeroes in on the relational aspect of one-on-one or small-group investment.

discipleship and mentoring conversation

Here are a few key characteristics of mentoring:

  • Relational Focus: Mentoring happens within the context of a close, intentional relationship.

  • Personal Guidance: A mentor helps a disciple navigate specific challenges and take actionable steps in their faith journey.

  • Accountability: Mentoring provides a safe space for discussing struggles, victories, and growth areas.

  • Emotional support: Helping your new Christians have the emotional energy to grow spiritually.


The Overlap Between Discipleship and Mentoring

While discipleship is broader and mentoring is more focused, the two are deeply interconnected. Mentoring is one of the critical components that must happen for mature disciples to be made. A new believer might learn foundational truths in a class or sermon, but it’s in the mentoring relationship where those truths often get applied to real-life situations.


Think of mentoring as the “on-the-ground” work of discipleship. It’s the day-to-day, practical implementation of the principles of following Jesus. Mentoring helps:

  • Solidify spiritual habits like Bible reading and prayer

  • Apply biblical truths to personal struggles

  • Model Christlike behavior through a mentor’s example


Why Mentoring Is Essential for Discipleship

Without mentoring, discipleship can remain theoretical. Mentoring brings it to life. That’s why I’ve written extensively on the topic and created resources like the NewStart Discipleship Mentoring Guide.


To download the Mentoring Guide, drop your name and email right here:



The NewStart Guide gives disciple-makers a clear, structured way to mentor new believers, focusing on practical steps and relational investment. It helps bridge the gap between the big-picture goals of discipleship and the personal, transformative work of mentoring.


A Call to Action

If you’re serious about making disciples, don’t overlook the importance of mentoring. It’s not an optional add-on to discipleship; it’s a vital part of the process. Whether you’re a pastor or a lay leader, investing in a one-on-one mentoring relationship can have an eternal impact.


Other Mentoring Posts & Resources

For tools to help you mentor effectively, check out:



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