Discipleship is the foundation of the church. It’s one of the most important priorities of the church. Without it, you probably wouldn’t be attending church or even a follower of Christ. Yet, without Fellowship, Discipleship becomes stagnant. I want to break down Disciple(ship) so you understand why it’s needed in the church, how you become one and what you must do once you’ve become a Disciple.
A Disciple is a follower of Christ. They (1) believe his doctrine (2) rests on his sacrifice (3) imbibes (absorb or assimilate) his spirit (4) imitates his example.
Discipleship is the central theological theme of the Gospels and Acts. We see it in full display when Jesus walked the earth in ministry. The Old Testament prepares us for this relationship and the Epistles (we know are I-III John because John is the Apostle of Intimacy) and Revelation describe the relationship that is to happen after Jesus’ ascension; Fellowship.
Biblical Discipleship is rooted in God’s calling. This is why Fellowship with God is so crucial. During that time is when you hear your calling and are able to use it to disciple others.
Disciples represent God to nonbelievers. Authentic Discipleship requires selfless servanthood. What we do, say, act, our behavior in life’s situations as well as our character tells them who God is. We’re a reflection so that reflection has to show authenticity as well as glorify God. “I will be your God, and you shall be my people.” It’s not to boost or use it to prop yourself up so you’re followed. We’re sharing so God and Jesus are followed.
Believers are to be a source of blessings to all nations. That’s where one half of God’s purpose comes in. We are to serve others. Through serving is when others receive their blessings.
Jesus came to be God in the flesh. To fulfill the deepest meaning of covenant with God so we may replicate that. As a Disciple of Christ, we are to lose our old life (which we did when he died on the cross) and receive a new one (through obeying God’s Word). While all Disciples are to count the cost, most will not have to leave their homes, possessions or money. That is for a select few. But we all must deny self (forego personal pleasure that’s outside of the Will of God), take up the cross (daily obedience) and follow Jesus on a daily basis. “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.”
The process of Discipleship is to bring you closer to an intimate relationship with our Lord God. That means you enter into Fellowship with Lord God. That is the goal of individual Discipleship. Once you begin to take on Jesus’ traits, characteristics, share God’s Word with others and learn the Word for yourself, you must go deeper. That’s Fellowship.
As Disciples become the salt (deliberately seeking to influence the people in your life by showing God’s unconditional love) and light (to bring awareness, understanding and knowledge of God’s Word) of the world, they become living examples of Christ for others to follow.
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