Principle #1--Psalms of Discipleship

Key Scripture: How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers Psalm 1:1

Core Value: Community

Connecting in community is not an option if one wishes to grow in faith and in relationship. The answer for a meaningful relationship and spiritual growth is not isolation nor a program steeped in religious rituals. What really matters in Christian spiritual formation is the relationship with other believers. “Ironically, one problem we often see in the Christian community is that people get more into religion and less into the connectedness the Bible prescribes, with the result that they get sicker” (How People Grow: Cloud & Townsend 2001, 123). It was the great writer and thinker John Donne who stated these timeless words: “No man is an island unto himself.” This simply means that it is crucial for a believer who wishes to grow spiritually to have frequent times of fellowship with other like-minded believers. In addition to times of corporate worship, time must be spent in a smaller group setting in order to build lasting, meaningful relationships. There is a great need for a healthy community of believers who are committed to building authentic relationships.

Principle #1 & Personal Application: The quality disciple places great value in being a part of a biblical community of other disciples.

The quality disciple:

• Refuses to walk in the counsel of the wicked; instead, seeking out those who are godly and wise.

• Refuses to stand in the path of sinners; instead, surrounding themselves with those who are seeking a right relationship with Jesus Christ.

• Refuses to sit in the seat of scoffers; instead, keeping themselves from those who poison the heart with doubt and unbelief and seeking out those who believe God.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

Who are the people I trust the most with my life?

In what ways am I blessed with the company I keep?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for allowing me to be a member of the body of Christ. Continue to guide me into the kind of relationships with other disciples that will strengthen my relationship with You.


The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

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