Discipleship is one of those words that we toss around our churches like a familiar football!  We know that the word discipleship has something to do with being close to God, and we convince ourselves that this is enough.  We need to start thinking about discipleship and what it really means.  I think that true discipleship is one of the lost gifts that God has given to the church!  I am trying to get my head and heart around it, and must admit that I have a ways to go.  I thought that it might be helpful for me to share with you some of the things that God has been teaching and showing me!

How do you know when discipleship is happening?  Discipleship is the work of God in a person”s heart and life.  When a person experiences transformation through a relationship with God, their life shines Jesus to all of those around.  When you experience God’s love, you can’t help but to share that love with any and all around you.

I am afraid that many times in our churches we end up preaching a gospel that turns people into consumers of religion, rather than into disciples of relationship.  The problem is this:  Faith that does not grow into action is not really faith at all!  Bonhoeffer said:  “Only those who are obedient believe and only those who believe are obedient.  Faith is the only real obedience.”

A true disciple is a person who abides in Christ, produces fruit, practices obedience, lives with joy and gives love!  (John 15)  If you want to be a growing disciple, then you must submit to spiritual leadership and teaching, so that you can learn to live by the words of Jesus and follow His example of ministry, which seeks to find and grow other disciples.

Are you a disciple?  Would the life that you are living today prove it?  I have to go – because I’ve got some work to do!  I want my life to prove it!