The Up, In, Out Triangle: A Simple Way to Follow the Example of Jesus

When we look at the life of Jesus, we do not just see truth that He taught. We also see a pattern He lived.

In Luke 6, Jesus went up on the mountain to pray. Then He came down and called His disciples to Himself. After that, we see Him moving among the people, healing, teaching, and demonstrating the kingdom of God.

This gives us a simple picture for discipleship: Up, In, Out.

Up speaks of our relationship with the Father. It is the place of prayer, worship, hearing from God, and being with Him. Jesus made time to go up on the mountain and seek the Father. We need that in our lives too.

In speaks of spiritual family. Jesus did not build His life only around crowds. He called disciples to Himself and walked closely with them. We also need real community, friendship, fellowship, and spiritual relationships where we are known and growing together.

Out speaks of mission. Jesus and His disciples did not stay inward-focused. They went out to preach the gospel, heal the sick, and serve people. In the same way, we are called to live outwardly—through outreach, everyday witness, and serving people where we live, work, and spend time.

One of the most helpful ways to use this tool is as a mirror. We can ask ourselves:

• Do I have a real “up” in my life with God?

• Do I have an “in” with spiritual family and community?

• Do I have an “out” where I am living on mission?

This also works for discipling others. It gives us a simple way to help someone assess their life and find areas where they need to grow. It is also a helpful framework for a spiritual family or disciple-making community. If a group has lots of prayer and community but no mission, something is missing. If it has lots of mission but no depth with God or real relationships, something is out of balance.

The life of Jesus was not one-dimensional. It was full, balanced, and rooted in relationship with the Father, spiritual family, and kingdom mission.

Take time this week to draw the triangle and assess your own life. Then walk someone else through it. Start with Luke 6:12–19, show them the triangle, and help them think through where they need to grow.

This simple tool can help us keep following the way of Jesus and keep making disciples who make disciples.