The Spirtual Forge

DISCIPLESHIP

• DISCIPLE - A person who learns from another, especially one who then teaches others; An active follower or adherent of someone.  
• DISCIPLESHIP - the act or position of being another's learner.

These are good words to become familiar with, because as Christians we are all disciples of Jesus. We have chosen this (Mt.11:28-30). It means not just academically learning what the scriptures say, but learning of Jesus to come to a point of DOING what Jesus did. To become a DOER of what He taught, and to teach others how to do the same (Mt.7:24; 1 Jn.5:3-5).

Yet, Jesus warns us, "Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me (Mt.10:37,38)." 

Discipleship is not like a career that we map out for ourselves. We cannot arrange our service to God to suit ourselves; otherwise, we end up serving Jesus according to what WE think. We promised Him that we would "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness...(Mt.6:33)."  Jesus knew that there would be those who would adapt the "service to suit" path.  In Luke 9:61,62 he tells the instance of one who states that they obediently follow Jesus, but then turn the tables and decide on our own what should take priority in our lives. We may accomplish many good things, but that doesn't make us HIS disciple.  We are HIS only when we seek HIS will above our won (Jas.4:15).  

Looking back is double-mindedness (James 1:8, 4:8). It makes us unstable and uncertain, and that’s the exact opposite of what Jesus expects of us. It means there are moments in our relationship with Jesus when we say, “I’ll get back to you on that, Jesus, just as soon as I finish with my what I need to get done.” 

Are you holding off truly following Jesus until he fits into your schedule? Is biblical teaching, values, and the way of God on hold "until I get through this stage of life?"   Then you might wish to consider what Jesus stated further in Luke 9:59-62 "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God."

Jim