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The Ways of Christian Discipleship

"Disciple" is a Greek term that means "follower." A disciple is someone who dedicated their life and effort to learning from others and then showing others what they had learned.

The last teachings of Jesus in the New Testament encompass the most important facets of discipleship. We read the Great Commission, as it is known to Christians "'All power in heaven and on earth has been granted to me,' Jesus said to them. Making disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything, I have commanded you. And, behold, I am still with you, until the end of the century. '" (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 12:18-20).

The Great Commission's key instruction is to "make disciples." There are three distinct pieces. First and foremost, a disciple is someone who is able to "go" and make disciples of others. Early followers of Jesus openly preached the risen Jesus' message, frequently facing severe persecution as a result. Within a century, however, churches had sprung up all over the Mediterranean.

Second, disciples invite those they come into contact with to be baptized. Acceptance of Christ and a determination to fulfill His teachings are symbolized by baptism. Although baptism does not save a soul, it is a public declaration of allegiance to Christ and commitment to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.

Third, a disciple is someone who teaches people about Jesus. Although only a few believers are talented teachers, all believers are called to share what they have learned about Jesus with those who are seeking to develop in their faith.

Discipleship Exemplified

The summary of the first church in Acts 2:42-47 is a significant early example of this method of making disciples. Discipleship was more than an intellectual process; it was a holistic approach that included relationship building, financial donation, praying, learning, worship, and every aspect of life. We've been reading, "They have dedicated themselves to the apostles' preaching and communion, as well as the breaking of bread and prayers. Every spirit was filled with awe, and the apostles performed many miracles and signs. And those who believed were gathered together and then shared everything. They were also selling their belongings and sharing the proceeds to everyone who needed it. And day by day, they got their food with glad and generous souls, thanking God and enjoying favor with all the nations, as they went to the temple together and broke bread in their houses. And the Lord added to their number those that were being rescued day by day."

The influence that this first church has on its population is also important. We're assured that because of the emphasis on Christian discipleship, new souls are saved on a regular basis. True Christian discipleship, it has been said, is the highest way of outreach.

Discipleship in Christ is something more than a curriculum or a set of moves. Rather, it is a never-ending phase of growth. An individual devotes his or her entire life to Jesus and becomes committed to understanding His ways, as well as going, communicating, and educating others about this way of life.

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