The Basics of Discipleship

Dear Friends,

One of the most basic truths of disciplemaking is bringing people to Jesus. We cannot change anyone, but we can bring people to the One who does. In my devotions this morning I came across some good thoughts from Henry Blackaby. Enjoy!

October 21
Bringing People to Jesus

He first found his own brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah!” (which means “Anointed One”). . . —John 1:41

People become known for many things. Noah is known as a righteous man in an evil age. David is known as the man after God's own heart. Peter is known as the outspoken disciple. John is known as the disciple whom Jesus loved. Judas is known as the betrayer. Paul is known as a fearless proclaimer of the gospel. Andrew is known for bringing others to Jesus.

The first person Andrew brought to Jesus was his brother Peter. As soon as Peter joined the disciples, he became the spokesperson for the Twelve, while Andrew remained in the background. It was Peter, not Andrew, who rose to prominence as one of Jesus' inner circle of three. We do not read of Andrew resenting Peter; it seems he was satisfied to bring others to Jesus and leave the results to Him.
It is not surprising that Andrew found the boy with the loaves and fishes and brought him to Jesus (John 6:8–9). Andrew brought Greeks to Jesus, even though they were despised by pious Jews (John 12:20–22). There is no record of Andrew ever preaching a sermon, performing a miracle, or writing a book of Scripture. He is remembered for those whom he brought to Jesus.

Andrew is a good role model for us. Our job is not to transform people into Christians nor to convict them of their sin. It is not our responsibility to make people do what they ought to do. Our task is to bring them to Jesus, and He will perform His divine work in their lives.

—Experiencing God Day by Day (Henry Blackaby)

Praying for One Another

On the first Saturday of October, 18 men met on the campus of Columbia International University for a day of prayer. Our hearts were challenged by God's Word and refreshed as we worshiped Him, prayed to Him, and were blessed by a rich fellowship with each other. There is a certain power, a certain kind of blessing, when men pray to God and pray for each other. This passage of Scripture is one of many verses in the Bible that speak of this wonderful act:

3 I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience the way my forefathers did, as I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day, 4 longing to see you, even as I recall your tears, so that I may be filled with joy. 2 Timothy 1:3-4 (NASB95)

As a result of this prayer retreat, we are seeking to keep the momentum of prayer by asking men who have a heart for spiritual growth to meet with us on the first Sunday of each month from 5:30pm to 6:30pm at Church at Sandhurst. We hope you can join us during this important hour. If you have any questions, please email me.

Speaking of praying for one another, please keep my friend (and a friend to many of you too) Jamie Grimsley in your prayers. Click on his blog--it will be an encouragement to you, and as you are encouraged, I'm sure he would love to hear from you. His link is http://www.jamiegrimsley.com/

Longing to spend time at His Throne. Hope to greet you there too!

Repentance and Discipleship

The Disciple’s Core Belief: Jesus preached repentance to those who sought the kingdom of heaven

12 When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee. 13 Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali--14 to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: 15 "Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles--16 the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned." 17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." Matthew 4:12-17 (NIV)

The Core Principle Applied:
Biblical repentance is a change of mind. It is not a decision based upon emotion or circumstance. Instead, repentance is a volitional choice of the will—a will that has been influenced by an inner conviction that comes from the Holy Spirit.

It is God who grants us the gift of repentance
Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 2 Timothy 2:25 (NIV)

Repentance is closely linked to the kingdom of God and belief in the Good News, the Gospel.
"The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" Mark 1:15 (NIV)

The fruit of repentance is always seen in a changed life.
But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount." Luke 19:8 (NIV)

Getting in the Correct Position

September 13

Prayer Is Preparation (by Henry Blackaby)

When the day of Pentecost had arrived, they were all together in one place.—Acts 2:1

Prayer does not give you spiritual power. Prayer aligns your life with God so that He chooses to demonstrate His power through you. The purpose of prayer is not to convince God to change your circumstances but to prepare you to be involved in God's activity.

The fervent prayer of the people at Pentecost did not induce the Holy Spirit to come upon them. Prayer brought them to a place where they were ready to participate in the mighty work God had already planned.

Jesus told His followers to remain in Jerusalem until the Spirit came upon them (Acts 1:4–5). The disciples obeyed His command, waiting for God's next directive. As they prayed, God adjusted their lives to what He intended to do next. As they prayed, a unity developed among them. For the first time the disciples used Scripture as their guide in decision making (Acts 1:15–26). The day of Pentecost arrived, and the city of Jerusalem filled with pilgrims from around the world. When God released His Holy Spirit upon the disciples, He had already filled the city with messengers who would carry the Gospel to every nation. Prayer had prepared the disciples for their obedient response.

Prayer is designed to adjust you to God's will, not to adjust God to your will. If God has not responded to what you are praying, you may need to adjust your praying to align with God's agenda. Rather than focusing on what you would like to see happen, realize that God may be more concerned with what He wants to see happen in you.

—Experiencing God Day by Day

My Ten Year Anniversary

July 3....1998....what a day! It has been 10 years since the Lord trusted me with my heart attack and bypass surgery. By His grace, He has given me 10 years of memories....10 years of seeing things from a fresh perspective...10 years of being able to experience the joy of deeper relationships....10 years to learn how much He loves me...10 years to consider how important making disciples is to Jesus. 10 years to appreciate the way His Spirit leads me, comforts me, counsels me. Below are some of the lessons I have learned about the Wonderful Counselor:

So, we have been given a Counselor, one who defends us, helps us, and leads us.

What does it mean to be Spirit-led by this Counselor? How does this play out in practical ways in the life of the believer?

You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalms 16:11 (NASB95)

It is the Counselor, the Wonderful Counselor, who makes known to us, the path of life.

A. He knows how to get us to that path of life (the knowledge of His will)

For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, Colossians 1:9 (NASB95)

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. John 16:13 (NIV)

We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. 1 Corinthians 2:12 (NIV)

B. He knows how to keep us on that path of life (the fullness of joy that comes from being in His presence)

¹⁹ and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:19 (NASB95)

³⁴ For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. John 3:34 (NIV)

¹⁸ For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Ephesians 2:18 (NIV)

⁵ And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 5:5 (NIV)

C. He knows what we need while we are on that path of life (the Fruit of the Spirit; the Provision of God)

²² But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. ²⁴ Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. ²⁵ Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. ²⁶ Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galatians 5:22-26 (NIV)

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

¹⁹ And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (NIV)

CONCLUSION:

Do you need more love? More joy? More peace? More patience? More kindness? More goodness? More faithfulness? More gentleness? More self-control? These pleasures are all available in His right hand by His Spirit.

The Fruit of the Spirit comes from Him and is produced through His disciples. It is by grace, through faith.

Are we bearing the Fruit of the One who is the Wonderful Counselor? Do we have an intimate relationship with our live-in Counselor? What is the key to intimacy?

¹⁶ So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. ¹⁷ For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. ¹⁸ But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. Galatians 5:16-18 (NIV)

As disciples of Jesus Christ, we must be Spirit-led: not by the world, by Satan, and even by our own flesh, our own desires of the sinful nature. During this intense “tug-of-war” we need to plead with our Counselor to help us live a life marked by His Fruit. We need to live the discipled life.

Thanking the Lord for your faithful friendship--for all of these years,

Denny

The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25

Why Discipleship Matters

Dear friends,

Came across this article from USA Today (More Americans Dropping Dogma For Spirituality ). There is much for us to chew on as leaders and disciplemakers, but if we are committed to the task of making disciples of Jesus Christ we will need be more than prepared to help others walk through the dangerous undercurrents of our culture. Here is an excerpt. If you have time, I'd invite you to read the entire article. (Refer to June 23, 2008)

A 'spiritual salad bar'

"Americans believe in everything. It's a spiritual salad bar," says Rice University sociologist Michael Lindsay.

Rather than religious leaders setting the cultural agenda, today, it's Oprah Winfrey, he says.

"After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the national memorial service was at Washington's National Cathedral, conducted by Episcopal clergy. After the 9/11 attack, Oprah organized the official memorial service at Yankee Stadium, and while clergy participated, she was the master of ceremonies.

"The impact of Oprah is seen throughout this survey. She uses the language of Bible and Christian traditions and yet includes other traditions to create a hodgepodge personalized faith. Exclusivism (the idea that one religion has the absolute and exclusive truth) has gotten a bad name in America today," says Lindsay, author of a book on the rise of evangelical social and political clout.

Nevertheless, Jesus said "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me". John 14:6

Making disciples with you,

Denny

Creating a Culture of Biblical Discipleship

The Lord Jesus, at the conclusion of His earthly ministry, gave to His disciples a compelling charge that has become known as the “Great Commission.” In very clear and convincing terms, He challenges each one of His disciples to “Go and make disciples…teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you…” (Matthew 28:19-20). Years later, the Apostle Paul writes his final letter to his disciple, Timothy, and urges him to “…be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:1-2). Discipleship is the heartbeat of the Church. When discipleship is woven into the inner fabric of our being, the Church is healthy and growing. When discipleship becomes a hollow pledge and a forgotten way of life, the Church becomes sick.

A believer in Jesus Christ, a Christ-follower, needs to be fully engaged in discipleship. This task, this wonderful privilege, of being His disciple and making other disciples for Him, is not another “religious” duty, but a way of life. Discipleship, biblical discipleship, is the normal Christian life. Any other way of living as a Christian is fraudulent and will certainly lead to an unfulfilled life. We know that it is God’s will for His people to be fully committed disciples of His. We also know that for every requirement that God places before us, He also provides for us the necessary resources we need to do what He has called us to do. This is also true about discipleship.

Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 (NLT)

The Kind of Discipleship That Protects Against False Teaching

The Bible has much to say about the danger of false teaching. The best way to protect yourself from false teaching is to be intimately informed of what is the truth. Below is just a sampling of what the Bible has to say about this topic:

FALSE TEACHERS:

THE CHARGE TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THEM—A DESCRIPTION OF THEM AND THE DANGER THEY PRESENT

• Behavior - Characteristics – Traits of False Teachers.

• Are deceptive. Romans 16:18; Colossians 2:4; Ephesians 4:14

¹⁷ I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. ¹⁸ For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. Romans 16:17-18 (NIV)

• Are not saved. / Are worldly minded and sensual. / Cause division. Jude 17-19

¹⁷ But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. ¹⁸ They said to you, "In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires." ¹⁹ These are the men who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. Jude 1:17-19 (NIV)

• Are prideful. What false teachers take pride in. 1 Tim. 6:4

³ If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, ⁴ he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions ⁵ and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. 1 Timothy 6:3-5 (NIV)

• Are deceiving and being deceived. 2 Tim. 3:13

¹³ while evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13 (NIV)

• Are troublemakers. Galatians 1:6-7

⁶ I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel--⁷ which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. Galatians 1:6-7 (NIV)

• Boast in the flesh. Galatians 6:12-13

¹² Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. ¹³ Not even those who are circumcised obey the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your flesh. Galatians 6:12-13 (NIV)

• Deny Christ. 2 Peter 2:1

¹ But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them--bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Peter 2:1 (NIV)

• Do not understand what they teach. 1 Tim. 1:6-7

⁶ Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk. ⁷ They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm. 1 Timothy 1:6-7 (NIV)

• Enslave others. Galatians 2:3-5 / • Enter the church hypocritically. Galatians 2:3-5

³ Yet not even Titus, who was with me, was compelled to be circumcised, even though he was a Greek. ⁴ [This matter arose] because some false brothers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves. ⁵ We did not give in to them for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might remain with you. Galatians 2:3-5 (NIV)

• Follow false messiahs and saviors. John 5:43

⁴³ I have come in my Father's name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. John 5:43 (NIV)

• Follow the way of rebellion against God and reject authority. Jude 11

¹¹ Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam's error; they have been destroyed in Korah's rebellion. Jude 1:11 (NIV)

• Lead sheep to destruction, away from life. John 10:10

¹⁰ The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 (NIV)

• Preach and teach fables. 2 Tim. 4:3-4

³ For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. ⁴ They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (NIV)

• Preach and teach myths and speculations and controversies. 1 Tim. 1:3-4

³ As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer ⁴ nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God's work--which is by faith. 1 Timothy 1:3-4 (NIV)

• Preach and teach tradition. Matthew 15:9

⁶ …Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. ⁷ You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: ⁸ "'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. ⁹ They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.'" Matthew 15:6b-9 (NIV)

• Resist the truth. 2 Tim. 3:8

⁸ Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these men oppose the truth--men of depraved minds, who, as far as the faith is concerned, are rejected. 2 Timothy 3:8 (NIV)

• Seduce and deceive. 2 Cor. 11:13-15

¹³ For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. ¹⁴ And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. ¹⁵ It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (NIV)

• Serve their own desires and appetites. Romans 16:17-18

¹⁷ I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. ¹⁸ For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. Romans 16:17-18 (NIV)

• Spirit of. Is evil. 1 John 4:1

¹ Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. ² This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, ³ but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. 1 John 4:1-3 (NIV)

• Turn people away from the truth. 2 Tim. 3:3-4

² People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, ³ without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, ⁴ treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God--⁵ having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. 2 Timothy 3:2-5 (NIV)

• Protection against False Teachers.

• By an anointing from Christ. 1 John 2:20

²⁰ But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. ²¹ I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth. ²² Who is the liar? It is the man who denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a man is the antichrist--he denies the Father and the Son. 1 John 2:20-22 (NIV)

• By fearing false teachers because they are messengers of Satan. 2 Cor. 11:13-15

¹³ For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. ¹⁴ And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. ¹⁵ It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (NIV)

• By guarding oneself. Mark 8:15; Philippians 3:1-3; Hebrews 13:9-16; 2 Peter 3:17; 1 John 2:18-22

¹ Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. ² Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. ³ For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh-- Philippians 3:1-3 (NIV)

• By knowing their danger. 1 Tim. 1:3-11

• By marking and watching out for false teachers. Romans 16:17-20

• By not welcoming false teachers in one's home. 2 John 10-11

⁷ Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. ⁸ Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. ⁹ Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. ¹⁰ If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take him into your house or welcome him. ¹¹ Anyone who welcomes him shares in his wicked work. 2 John 1:7-11 (NIV)

• By turning away from false teachers. 1 Tim. 6:20-21

²⁰ Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, ²¹ which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith. Grace be with you. 1 Timothy 6:20-21 (NIV)

• Source - Where false teachers are.

• From within and without the church. Acts 20:29-30

²⁹ I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. ³⁰ Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. ³¹ So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. Acts 20:29-31 (NIV)

—Source: POSB (Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible) NT Master Subject Index

The Case For A Disciple-Making Church--Part 2

What comes first…the chicken or the egg? Who knows? I’m not sure, but I am sure about these:

What comes first?

• Discipleship or Worship

• Discipleship or Missions

• Discipleship or Evangelism

• Discipleship or Social Action

Matthew 28:19-20

“Go and make disciples (first)…teaching them (about worship, missions, evangelism, social action) to obey everything I have commanded you…”

An undiscipled life will demean the value of worship, missions, evangelism, and social action. If we are not living the discipled life, we will be seeking to do these activities in our own way and not in God’s. No doubt, many will be busy doing some very good things. But if these are done by undiscipled believers, the end result will be a hollow experience.

What did Jesus have in mind when He charged us to go and make disciples? What is He looking for in a person who loves Him? As we survey the New Testament, we can highlight at least seven qualities of a disciple who follows Jesus.

1. Jesus wants us to make disciples who have a firm foundation of GRACE.

2. Jesus wants us to make disciples who WORSHIP God in the way He desires.

3. Jesus wants us to make disciples who love to STUDY the BIBLE.

4. Jesus wants us to make disciples who PRAY.

5. Jesus wants us to make disciples who are in COMMUNITY, building RELATIONSHIPS.

6. Jesus wants us to make disciples who SERVE, using their GIFTS.

7. Jesus wants us to make disciples who SHARE their FAITH.

As believers, we are called to participate in His work--the task of making disciples of Jesus Christ.

This is my thesis, my statement for consideration: If we are fully engaged in a culture of making (and living as) a disciple, then the natural outflow of a believer following Jesus as His disciple will be one who is actively engaged in…

• Worship—a seven day a week, twenty four hour a day way of life.

• Missions—a commitment to make disciples who will reach the ends of the earth for the Gospel.

• Evangelism—a natural expression of having to share the reality of the Christian life with the lost—using both words and deeds.

• Social Action—a pledge to become salt and light, doing good works and building relationships as the Kingdom of God is extended.

I believe that “Discipleship” is so much more than just another thing to get involved in. I believe it is the thing. It is reasonable to expect: The more I grow as a disciple of Jesus Christ, the more impact I will have on worship, missions, evangelism, and social action.

And how does a believer grow as a disciple, a Christ-follower? He or she embraces at least these seven qualities:

1. A disciple of Jesus Christ grows spiritually when he or she has a firm foundation of GRACE.

2. A disciple of Jesus Christ grows spiritually when he or she WORSHIPS God in the way He desires.

3. A disciple of Jesus Christ grows spiritually when he or she STUDIES the BIBLE.

4. A disciple of Jesus Christ grows spiritually when he or she PRAYS.

5. A disciple of Jesus Christ grows spiritually when he or she is in COMMUNITY, building RELATIONSHIPS.

6. A disciple of Jesus Christ grows spiritually when he or she SERVES, using their GIFTS.

7. A disciple of Jesus Christ grows spiritually when he or she SHARES their FAITH.

The Case For A Disciple-Making Church--Part 1

The Case For A Disciple-Making Church:

Rethinking The Way We Do Church In America

Part 1

Key Scriptures to Consider:

¹⁸ Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. ¹⁹ Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)

¹¹ It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, ¹² to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up ¹³ until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. ¹⁴ Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. ¹⁵ Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. ¹⁶ From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4:11-16 (NIV)

¹ You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. ² And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. 2 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

Introduction:

What is Biblical discipleship? Are we living a discipled life? Are we making the kinds of disciples who are following Jesus? These are questions that require any serious follower of Jesus Christ to carefully weigh. Living in a culture that encourages us to live as buffet Christians—taking what we like and rejecting what does not please us—we face the danger of settling for a watered-down version of authentic Christian discipleship. Like a zombie, many of us simply go through the motions of a religion we can live with, neglecting the very thing Christ has called the church to do: not to only be a disciple of His, but to make them as well.

I. The Command Is For All

Jesus promised His resources “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” to accomplish His work “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” It is important to note here: that the Greek use of the word “make disciples,” not only means to reproduce the essence of discipleship in others, but it also means that I too must have those same elements of discipleship at work in my own life. It is impossible for me to make something (a disciple of Jesus Christ), when the very life I am seeking to reproduce does not live in me.

II. The Role Of The Church And Its Leaders

Yes, first and foremost, the role of the Church of Jesus Christ is to glorify Him. Once that fact has been established, we then see in Ephesians 4 that the role of the leaders of the church is the preparation of God’s people for works of service. Why? So that the body of Christ may be built up, mature in our faith, learning to live in an authentic community of truth-telling, becoming more and more like Jesus Christ as each one of us finds our niche in the body of Christ. This process of spiritual growth is made possible because of intentional discipleship. I believe the implication of this passage of Scripture is that as the leaders of the church lead in discipleship, others will follow and also make disciples too. “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” (vs. 16)

III. Grace: The Foundation For A Fruitful Ministry Of Discipleship

Without a foundation of grace in our life, any attempt to make disciples will only be another thing we add to our "appear spiritual" list. It becomes a program, a burdensome duty, a religious exercise with no lasting value. However, if we are, as Paul suggests, “to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus,” then our investment in the lives of other disciples will produce generations of future disciples. Because of grace, note the progression of the chain of discipleship (in this one verse, we see four generations):

And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. (vs. 2)

There was (1) Paul, (2) Timothy, (3) Reliable men who will also be qualified to teach, (4) Others

How far does your chain of discipleship go? Are you stuck on you or are you moving on into a fruitful legacy of building up disciples of Jesus Christ?

Summary:

Discipleship is not “another thing to do” as we live out our Christian life. No, it is “the thing we must do” if we are willing to live in obedience according to His Word. In a future discussion we will talk in detail of what makes a disciple of Jesus Christ a “Quality Disciple.” For now, we will list them in a logical progression. They are Grace, Worship, Bible Study, Prayer, Community (building relationships), Service, and Evangelism.

Perhaps, you would like for this prayer to become your own:

Lord Jesus, I come to You with a sincere desire to please You. I know, by reading Your Word, becoming a disciple and making a disciple is not optional. It is Your Word to me. I can rest upon Your resources (Your strength) to give me everything I need in order to fulfill my part of the Great Commission. Lord, may I be used by You as one who helps others grow up spiritually in my church. Send me strong believers who will disciple me. As I look around, lead me to those that I can mentor and disciple. Finally, may I always be reminded that there will never be lasting spiritual fruit if I do not fully engage in Your grace. For the sake of others I influence, and for my sake, may Your grace in me grant me a legacy of disciples who follow after You.

The Great Need For Biblical Quality Disciples

With so many voices in the media saying there are other legitimate options besides a relationship with Jesus Christ, a quality disciple of Jesus Christ must be grounded in what God's Word teaches.

This video clip is a stark reminder of all of the false teaching that seeks to deceive.

² Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction. ³ For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. ⁴ They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 2 Timothy 4:2-4 (NIV)

Evangelism

FACE TIME:

Getting To Know God Better By Spending Face Time With Him

WEEK ONE / DAY 7 / EVANGELISM

V. EVANGELISM is not optional. The story of the Gospel is too good to ignore. It must be told to others—both in word and in deed.

For the quality disciple, it all begins with having a foundation of grace…where as a result, we can worship God in the way He prefers…then, and only then, will we be able to experience genuine spiritual growth…where we will be able to serve as we share our spiritual gifts…and as we experience God’s grace, worship Him as He sees fit, grow in our relationship with Him, and serve using our gifts for Him, we will consequently have an authentic WITNESS to the lost using both our words and our deeds.

We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect* in Christ. Col. 1:28

*A Clearer Meaning:

What does it mean to present everyone perfect in Christ? Simply this: it does not mean to make perfect converts who never make a mistake, but to make disciples who are spiritually mature as they grow in Christ. It is called “discipleship.”

What does this say…What does it mean…What is God saying to me?

Am I comfortable talking about Jesus with a non-believer?

Do I have a good grasp of the teachings of Christianity in order to point seekers to saving faith in Jesus Christ?

Is the priority of my life such that the end goal of every relationship is to present everyone perfect (spiritually mature) in Christ?

Talking To God: My Face Time With Him

Lord of the Harvest, I want Your heart for the lost. How will they hear, if no one, including me, does not tell them about Your Gospel? I need Your grace as I proclaim You, admonishing and teaching everyone You place across my path with all wisdom; so that I may present them perfect and mature in Christ.

Service

FACE TIME:

Getting To Know God Better By Spending Face Time With Him

WEEK ONE / DAY 6 / SERVICE

IV. SERVICE is the natural outflow of having a relationship with the Lord. God has saved me so that I might serve Him and others.

For the quality disciple, it all begins with having a foundation of grace… where as a result, we can worship God in the way He prefers…then, and only then, will we be able to experience genuine spiritual growth…where we will be able to SERVE as we share our spiritual gifts…

17If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? 18Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.
1 John 3:17-18

What does this say…What does it mean…What is God saying to me?

What kinds of material goods has the Lord entrusted to me that can be a blessing to another member of the body of Christ?

How keen am I to the lives of needy believers who are in my circle of influence?

What have I done lately that has shown love to a needy person?

Talking To God: My Face Time With Him

Lord, You have blessed me with more than I deserve. You have blessed me with both material and spiritual blessings. Give me Your eyes to see the needs around me. May I be a blessing to both You and to others. Your Word is a sober reminder of what You expect from me: If I have material possessions and see my brother in need but have no pity on him, how can the love of God be in me? As a dear child of God, let me not love with words or tongue but with actions and truth.

Spiritual Growth: Community (Relationships)

FACE TIME:

Getting To Know God Better By Spending Face Time With Him

WEEK ONE / DAY 5 / SPIRITUAL GROWTH / COMMUNITY

III. SPIRITUAL GROWTH must be the norm for every Christian believer.

For the quality disciple, it all begins with having a foundation of grace… where as a result, we can worship God in the way He prefers…then, and only then, will we be able to experience genuine SPIRITUAL GROWTH…

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18

C. Community (Relationships) is essential for a healthy Christian. No one can live the Christian life in a vacuum. I need meaningful relationships with other believers.

We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 1 John 1:3

What does this say…What does it mean…What is God saying to me?

Who is in my circle of fellowship, other believers, whom I desire to have a meaningful relationship?

What kinds of choices do I make in order to enhance my relationship with my Father and with my Savior, Jesus Christ?

Talking To God: My Face Time With Him

Lord Jesus, You are the glue that holds every relationship together. Forgive me for the times when I leave You out and seek out friendships that are not built around You. You have given me wonderful counsel as I seek to build relationships. A healthy Christian community is as the Apostle John suggests, “that I might also may have fellowship with other believers. And our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ.”

Spiritual Growth: Prayer

FACE TIME:

Getting To Know God Better By Spending Face Time With Him

WEEK ONE / DAY 4 / SPIRITUAL GROWTH / PRAYER

III. SPIRITUAL GROWTH must be the norm for every Christian believer.

For the quality disciple, it all begins with having a foundation of grace… where as a result, we can worship God in the way He prefers…then, and only then, will we be able to experience genuine SPIRITUAL GROWTH…

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18

B. Prayer is akin to breathing in the air of heaven.

To the Lord I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. Selah Psalm 3:4

What does this say…What does it mean…What is God saying to me?

Is my prayer to the Lord my first response when I face a crisis?

Why is it important for me to cry aloud to the Lord?

How do I know when God answers me from His holy hill?

Talking To God: My Face Time With Him

Lord, You are not only the answer to my prayers, You are my Prayer. I want the kind of relationship with You that does not treat You like my cosmic bellhop, but to be Your friend and walk with You day by day, moment by moment, breath by breath. Lord it is to You I cry aloud; knowing that You will answer me from Your holy hill.

Spiritual Growth: Bible Study

FACE TIME:

Getting To Know God Better By Spending Face Time With Him

WEEK ONE / DAY 3 / SPIRITUAL GROWTH / BIBLE STUDY

III. SPIRITUAL GROWTH must be the norm for every Christian believer.

For the quality disciple, it all begins with having a foundation of grace… where as a result, we can worship God in the way He prefers…then, and only then, will we be able to experience genuine SPIRITUAL GROWTH…

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18

A. Bible Study is an integral part of my day.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. Col. 3:16

What does this say…What does it mean…What is God saying to me?

Have I given the Word of Christ “permission” to take root in my heart?

Does the fruit of my Bible study impact those of whom I have a relationship?

Have I been experiencing a thankful heart?

Talking To God: My Face Time With Him

Lord, You are the Word of God. It is my heart-felt desire that You come and fill my heart with Your precious Word. I have grown weary of shallow. I want it deeply and richly. I want Your Word to be the grid for everything I think, say, and do. I make a willing choice, I give You permission to let the Word of Christ dwell or live in me richly. I thank You that the outcome will impact those I teach and admonish with all of Your wisdom as my heart is filled singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude and thanks in my heart to God.