What We've Forgotten About Following Jesus: Lessons in discipleship from the early church to today

What does it actually mean to follow Jesus—and what can Christians today learn from those who followed Him centuries before us? In this conversation, Dr. Gerald Sittser, professor emeritus at Whitworth University and author of Water from a Deep Well, takes us on a journey through Christian history, from the early martyrs and desert fathers to monasteries, mystics, and missionaries. We explore why early Christians developed rigorous processes for discipleship, what a Rule of Life can teach us today, and how learning to "inhabit time" through rhythms of prayer, work, silence, and stillness can reshape our lives with God.

But this conversation isn't simply about looking backward. It's about recovering something we desperately need today: a deeper, more embodied way of becoming like Jesus. Dr. Sittser explains the Christian understanding of union with God, the difference between relationship and absorption, and why serious discipleship ultimately moves us outward into mission. Following Jesus isn't merely about believing the right things; it's about closing the gap between who we are in Christ and how we actually live, trusting that grace is present from beginning to end.

Learn more about Dr. Sittser here. And be sure to check out his book Water from a Deep Well: Christian Spirituality from Early Martyrs to Modern Missionaries.

Follow him on Facebook: @jerrysittser and Instagram: @jerrysittser.

More from Dr. Carol Ministries:

In-Person Intensive Weekend - Experience true healing and wholeness as you unpack your personal story around intimacy and relationships in a safe, caring, Christ-filled environment.    

Individual Coaching with Dr. Carol - A one-on-one format to help you navigate your personal journey through practical encouragement and scriptural- based perspective.  

Have a question for Dr. Carol? She loves to hear from you! You can send her a confidential message here.