Discipleship requires intimacy with Jesus, transformation of character, and participation in the kingdom of God.
Following Jesus as a disciple involves lifelong practice, consistent engagement with his teachings, and growth in love and service.
Deep dives
The Three Goals of Discipleship
Discipleship is about three main goals: being with Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing what Jesus did. The call to follow Jesus is an invitation to apprentice under him. It involves spending every waking moment in connection with Jesus, learning from him, and becoming like him. Discipleship is a lifelong process that requires practice, training, and community. It is not just a set of beliefs, but a way of life centered around intimacy with Jesus, transformation of character, and participation in the kingdom of God.
The Open Invitation to Apprenticeship
The invitation to discipleship is open to anyone. Jesus' call to discipleship is not limited by background, achievements, intelligence, or abilities. It is a call for all who desire to follow Jesus and learn from him. Discipleship is not about merely identifying as a Christian, but actively engaging in the process of becoming a disciple, a student, and an apprentice of Jesus. This invitation challenges the cultural understanding of Christianity and calls for a wholehearted commitment to following Jesus as the focal point of life.
Practice and Training in Discipleship
Following Jesus as a disciple requires practice and training. It is not a one-time event or a matter of trying harder. Discipleship is a lifelong journey that involves consistent practice of the teachings and commands of Jesus. It is a process of transformation that takes time, effort, and discipline. Through the spiritual practices and engagement in community, disciples learn to live out the teachings of Jesus and grow in their capacity to love, serve, and live according to the values of the kingdom of God.
The Life of Discipleship
Discipleship is a life-changing way of living. It is not a hobby or an add-on to one's life, but the very essence and focal point of life. It is a life built around the three goals of being with Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing what Jesus did. Discipleship involves continually practicing the presence of God, growing in likeness to Jesus, and engaging in the work of the kingdom. The journey of discipleship is marked by a lifetime commitment, consistent practice, and the support of a community of fellow apprentices.
Have you ever wanted to have the abundant life of Jesus? In this new series, John Mark outlines the what, how, and why behind Practicing the Way. For the first episode, John Mark outlines the cultural context behind Jesus's identity as a first-century rabbi, and what that means for us as His followers as we practice being with Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing what Jesus did.
Key Scripture Passages: Mark 8v34-36; Mark 1v16-20; Mark 2v13-14; Mark 3v13-14; John 15v1-8; Matthew 5-7