The Forge of Faith: How Alex and Stephen Kendrick Are Reigniting the Great Commission

When Jesus commanded His followers to “Go and make disciples of all nations” in Matthew 28:19, He set in motion a movement that would define the Christian faith. This mission, known as the Great Commission, is not merely a suggestion; it’s a mandate. Yet, in today’s church, the essence of true discipleship often feels diluted or lost. Enter Alex and Stephen Kendrick, the filmmaking duo whose latest project, The Forge, tackles this very issue. Premiering on August 23, the movie is poised to reignite the fire of discipleship within the church—a call that many believe is long overdue.

For fans of the Kendrick brothers, The Forge is much more than just another film; it’s a spiritual sequel to their 2015 hit, War Room. Stephen Kendrick describes it as “part two” of a powerful message. “If you liked War Room, you’re going to love The Forge,” he said. “War Room was a call to prayer, and this one is a call to discipleship.” With some of the same beloved characters returning, the movie delves deeper into what it truly means to disciple others—to engage in relationships, build friendships, and lead others to a mature faith in Christ.

This cinematic journey was born out of a season of prayer. The brothers sought God’s direction for their next project, and the answer was clear: discipleship. Alex Kendrick recalls how God guided them as they read Scripture and examined the principles of true discipleship. One verse that stood out was Luke 9:23, where Jesus says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” For the Kendricks, this Scripture was a reminder that walking as a disciple requires a radical commitment to becoming more like Christ.

“I have to die to myself,” Alex explained. “To deny yourself, take up your cross daily—that’s the heart of discipleship.” He emphasized that this process demands a deep, unwavering commitment, rejecting a lukewarm faith. The Forge explores this journey through the character of Isaiah, a 19-year-old who learns what it means to be a disciple. By the film’s end, Isaiah is not only passionate about his faith but is also ready to disciple others, exemplifying the multiplication that true discipleship brings.

Stephen Kendrick also touched on the challenges Christians face in surrendering fully to Christ. “Jesus said, ‘No man can serve two masters,’ and we can’t serve ourselves and Him at the same time,” he noted. “When we surrender to the lordship of Jesus Christ, He doesn’t make things worse; He makes everything better. He’s a really good driver. He’s a really good Lord.” This surrender is essential, yet it’s where many churches falter, clinging too tightly to control or relying too heavily on human logic rather than divine guidance.

The brothers believe that true discipleship is missing in many churches today. Stephen explained that while pastors may deliver powerful sermons, the larger church setting often lacks the intimacy needed for genuine discipleship. “True discipleship means small enough groups and close enough relationships so people can ask the hard questions,” he said. It’s in these smaller settings that deep, personal issues can be addressed, fostering a closer walk with the Lord.

The Forge aims to inspire Christians to create these smaller discipleship groups, where the Christian walk is modeled and difficult issues are confronted. The Kendricks hope that their film will serve as a catalyst for change, helping believers not only to live out their faith but also to guide others in doing the same. As the Great Commission calls for disciples to be made in all nations, The Forge is a timely reminder that the first step in fulfilling that mission begins with each of us, right where we are.