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Holy Club



Jesus used many different styles of teaching. There were also times when Jesus would teach with stern authority because he wanted to be clear in his intent. These were moments he issued commands. Not suggestions. Not general “take it or leave it” statements to ponder. Commands….period.

A command is “to direct with authority” or something “demanded.” It is an action or assignment directed from Superior to a subordinate that must be carried out with undue haste and with the utmost effort for the greatest degree of success.

Jesus gave us such a command in Matthew 28:19-20, “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….”

Simply put, we ARE to make disciples and teach them to obey the teachings of Jesus. This isn’t open to debate or discussion nor is it open to be modified or ignored. We must obey this command of Jesus. If we are not doing this then we must ask why. Whatever is in our way, we must remove it immediately and adjust our lives accordingly to come into compliance with this command of Jesus.

Maybe our lack of understanding just makes this command appear to be complicated and unattainable. Could there even be a chance that we are over-thinking this command to make something that is simple appear to be complicated, hard, and challenging. It is not. At all.

Discipleship is easier than your think. Our Methodist “founder” John Wesley (1703-1791) is historically noted as one of the greatest authors of the discipleship method. Although mocked for his strict and dedicated “methods” (where the term “Methodist” was derived), his concepts of spiritual disciplines lead many to Jesus Christ who were people who then turned around and lead others to Christ themselves. A simple theory of multiplication.

Discipleship is something all of us can do. Jesus would never command us to do something He didn’t first equip us to do. You are capable. You possess the ability. God has already placed within you the gifts, talents, and personality (along with His Holy Spirit) to fulfill this command of Jesus.

John Wesley was instrumental in formulating small groups outside the weekly, formal worship services on Sunday. Outside the formal structure of the Church, he grouped small “bands” (classes) of people to do several things: pray, read Scripture, share the experiences of their day/week, to uplift and encourage one another (accountability).

Yes, it is that simple! Find two or three (five or six) fellow Christians that you connect with and find a time to gather each week to “check up” on each other. Meet to pray, read select passages of Scripture, and see how each other is progressing in their faith. One of the best questions John Wesley loved to ask is “how is it with your soul?”

These weekly meetings were taken seriously. Each time together was purposed with spiritual emphasis. In no way was this meant to be downgraded to just “having the gang over to watch the game” type of meetings. I am not saying we can’t gather in the form of a cook-out, dinner, or informal setting with refreshments. I am stating that we must be intentional with our faith in these gatherings.

This was a sacred time for like-minded believers who were serious about their faith to get together to encourage one other and to challenge each other to grow in their relationship with Christ. The end result was not only for one’s personal benefit, but to be strengthened to share this faith with others to lead them to Jesus Christ. This “process” not only makes better Disciples, but makes more Disciples who make other Disciples.

Are you part of a “Holy Club” and actively pursuing growth and discipleship? If not, could you make it happen by gathering together a small band of friends who could commit to “doing life together” in a small group setting? At your home? Their home? A private, but public area?

Small accountability groups provide a foundational place to focus on Scripture study, to encourage each other, and to reach out to people beyond the group. I hope you are “doing life” with a small group…and if not, making the time and taking the initiative to start a group or actively pursue a group to fulfill this command of Jesus.

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