“Discipleship” may be a hazy or unfamiliar term to some. So Barna offered a definition when we set out to study the practice among churchgoers for our Discipleship in Community report, produced in partnership with RightNow Media: “Being discipled means someone is intentionally walking alongside you to help you grow spiritually and live out the disciplines of the Christian faith.” With this definition in mind, nearly two-thirds of churchgoers (64%) tell us they are presently being discipled.

We most wanted to learn about churchgoers’ personal experiences of being discipled. Who are the “someones” walking alongside them? What are they doing together? And how can they be more effective in helping someone truly grow in and live out their faith?

Pastors emerge as an obvious source of discipleship—but churchgoers point to other key relationships, too, often a personal mentor (the top response), a small group / Bible study or a family member they live with.

This is a potent reminder of the reality of discipleship: Yes, ministers and church staff and other professionals are present and important. They might set the tone, provide leadership or impart wisdom that structures other discipleship opportunities. But the day-to-day work of choosing the way of Jesus, endeavoring to become more like him, incorporating rhythms and routines that strengthen one’s faith (even when the speed and pressures of life do not readily accommodate or celebrate these things)—that is a journey largely undertaken in our personal communities.

The data tells us that, beyond the pulpit or a Sunday service, spiritual instruction and growth is typically facilitated in personal mentorships, in small groups and in our households.