“And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.””
Matthew 28:18-20
In our journey of faith, one of the greatest privileges we have is to become apprentices and disciples of Jesus Christ. Today, let us explore the concepts of discipleship and apprenticeship through the wisdom and guidance found within the Scriptures.
Matthew 4:19
"And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.'"
Jesus, masterfully calls His disciples not merely to follow Him physically but to engage in a journey of transformation. Jesus' invitation extended beyond their vocation as fishermen; it was an invitation into a purposeful life of reaching people for the kingdom of God. This call to follow Jesus constructs the foundation of discipleship.
Matthew 10:24-25
"The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for students to be like their teachers, and servants like their masters."
Discipleship involves more than just learning from Jesus; it encompasses a transformational process where believers become more like their teacher. As apprentices of Jesus, we are called to imitate His character, love, and humility. A committed disciple yearns to deepen their relationship with the Master, growing in spiritual maturity day by day.
Mark 6:30
"The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught."
Discipleship not only involves learning from our Master but also actively participating in His mission. The disciples reported back to Jesus, sharing their experiences, and seeking guidance. As disciples, we too are called to share our faith, proclaim the good news, and fulfill the Great Commission. Our mission is to reflect Christ's love and truth to the world.
John 13:15
"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you."
Apprenticeship implies following the teachings and behavior of our Master. Jesus taught His disciples not only by words but also through His actions. As disciples of Christ, we are to emulate His servant heart, compassion, forgiveness, and sacrificial love towards others. We grow as disciples when we humbly surrender to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to mold us into Christ-likeness.
Luke 14:27
"And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple."
Discipleship requires dedication and commitment. Jesus reminds us that following Him involves taking up our cross daily. It means making intentional decisions to deny ourselves, surrendering our own desires and ambitions, and submitting to God's will. True discipleship demands a wholehearted devotion to Jesus, acknowledging Him as our Lord and Savior in every aspect of our lives.
As we journey together as disciples of Jesus Christ, let us echo the words of the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Discipleship and apprenticeship with Jesus is a transformative process, guiding us to become more like our Master. Let us embrace the call, allowing His teachings, actions, and character to shape our lives, and in doing so, become fishers of men, spreading the gospel throughout the world.
Keep Advancing the Kingdom!
Austin