Discipleship

Jesus uses the word "disciple" to refer to those who respond to the call to follow Him. The purpose for following a teacher as a disciple was to learn from him through his teaching and by observing his way of life. Another word for "disciple" in our context today would be "apprentice"... followers of Jesus could be described as apprentices! Apprentices of Jesus learn from Him and become His ambassadors in our world. Learning how to be faithful in this task is a lifelong, eternal journey. ("Disciple" - Luke 14:26-33; John 8:31, 15:80 "Follow" - Matt 10:37-39; 16:24; John 8:12; 10:27-28; 12:23-26)

When Jesus was 30 years of age, He knew it was time for Him to do the things His Heavenly Father(God) had in mind. So He began to tell people that the realm of God's presence and influence(the kingdom of God) is close at hand. Christ told us that we are now to change the way we perceive reality and take the truth of God's Kingdom into account in our lives(repentance) and live as if it is true(believe this Good News)! (Mark 1:15) Then He calls us to follow Him, just as He called Simon & Andrew to become His "followers" in verse 17. Later, Jesus commanded His disciples to make other disciples. As a result of their faithfulness, you have heard the Good News about Jesus and His Kingdom and have believed. Having become His disciple, it is time to learn how!

The Disciple - Belonging in the Church

The Disciple - Prayer and the Bible

The Disciple - Growth through Training

Discipleship is not just an intellectual pursuit... it is a relationship with Christ that finds expression in the way we live. This life requires the implimentation of the grace and truth of His Kingdom and the practice of the reality of His presence. It is a way of life that demands our involvement. It finds purpose in promoting the coming of God's Kingdom, in strengthening His Kingdom community and in the growth His loving rule in all of creation! (John 14:6)