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.