Disciples study the teacher/leader and desire to imitate the paradigms/actions and obviously teaching. Apostle Paul encourages us to have the mind of Christ. The disciples followed Christ and did not initially comprehend the teachings and spiritual application. Following the death and resurrection of Jesus, the disciples made disciples, transforming hearts and lives of many in the known world! Those men, remaining faithful, taught Christ's teaching in the face of persecution.
Taking consideration for space and time, I will not place it here but I encourage you to read; Acts 2:42-47. The focus of my blogs, videos and books is to encourage spiritual maturity and to develop disciples that make disciples. (that is what we are commissioned to do).
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Followers of Jesus Christ live focused and intentional. I read an acronym once; L.I.F.E.= Living Intentionally Focused Eternally.
Three areas for true disciples?
EXALT - The disciple worships God in Spirit and in Truth. We worship with our mouths and our DAILY behavior. The follower knows the worthiness and majesty/Holiness of our Lord and desires to exalt Him. Though none is needed, we are an "advertisement" for God. Our worship and joy are testimonies and proof that what we have is real! Good times and bad we are not under the circumstances. While at work, school, home and play, we live a life of thanksgiving and praise to God. Others are watching as well.
EQUIP - You've heard we are to use the right tools for the right job. Putting on the whole armor of God Paul described in Ephesians 6:10-20 makes us strong in the Lord. Peter wrote to desire the pure milk of the Word that we might grow by it. Ephesians 4: 11 indicates we are to be under teachers that will equip us for the work of the ministry. We then after our own growth begin to equip others. Being a born again Christian doesn't end at new birth. The disciple spends much time in prayer and in the Word of God while reading other books and commentaries, to come along side. This all must be done under the submission and empowerment of God's Holy Spirit!
ENGAGE - The New Testament followers of Christ were scattered by persecution but planted churches and engaged the communities they entered. Christianity is a personal relationship with God. We have peace with God through faith in Christ Jesus our Lord. It is personal but as Jesus and Paul displayed it is something to be shared. Since the fall of mankind, God is a going God ("Adam where are you?") We are to be a going church, spiritually as well as socially. It is; "Come and see." then "Go and tell." Whether it is in building relationships through service or spontaneous conversation we engage again; at Work, home school, home schooled or play, we are to go and make disciples and share the good news of Jesus Chris in our action AND in speech. We engage not in order to get rewarded with eternity spent with God, but because we know we already are!
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