We have thoroughly examined the cost of discipleship as explained by Jesus in the gospels. We know he was explaining how following him in “the last days” would cost believers everything. They were to “take up their cross daily and follow him.”
Discipleship is spiritual fitness training. It is a fitness regimen.
1 Timothy 4:7: But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.
Following Christ in this dispensation of God's grace is all about commitment to growing in Christ. We all understand that the gospel in the Church Age is Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved. Neither Paul nor John in John 3:16 said anything about behavior to receive salvation. It is clearly anchored in belief!
So, unpacking discipleship, and understanding what it means to grow in Christ, and be equipped to bear eternal fruit is all about becoming a mature believer. Discipleship is a word that is used for so many things that is has become meaningless. Paul says discipleship is about teaching the things he has taught and lived to those will do the same.
Philippians 4:9: Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
2 Timothy 2:2: And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
The Biblical Discipleship manual that I have introduced to you to is designed to instill a mature understanding in any believer who will commit to learning and applying the truths that are taught. It is not inspired, but it is a simple tool that will lay a solid foundation of Christian understanding. As I stated, it is free to all who request it from Barbara Cowlishaw in the church office.
There are four goals with four lessons per goal:
Security (Lessons 1 – 4): The Word of God Salvation Eternal Security Baptism
Structure (Lessons 5 – 8): Holy Spirit Prayer The Will of God The Local Church
Submission (Lessons 9 – 12): Other Christians Giving Money & Possessions Dealing with Sin
Service (Lessons 13 – 16): Liberty in Christ Job & Employer The Lost World The Judgment Seat of Christ
These carefully crafted lessons help the believer to have a biblical answer to the difficulties of maturing in Christ. This coming Sunday, we will discuss entrance to the kingdom of God and inheritance in the kingdom of God. They are not the same thing, but you cannot inherit without first entering through believing on the Lord Jesus Christ for your salvation. But, you can enter and receive no inheritance. We will study this out this coming Sunday.
