What is Discipleship?

Before Jesus disappeared as He ascended into Heaven, He gave the infamous command, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:19-20, NLT2) What do you suppose may have flashed into the minds of His listeners? Do you think they imagined it meant each of them would select 12 guys who would gather around them and take notes of every spoken word they said?

What comes to your mind when you read the word ‘disciple’ (noun) or ‘discipleship’ (verb)? Either word has been so used and abused, few today would have the same defining word-picture in their minds. Ironically, the most common image would probably include a prescribed teaching environment comprising things like lectures and Bible memorization. A student today is not expected to agree with or be like their instructor, they are only expected to pass the exams.

Biblical discipleship consists more of a transfer of the values, passion, and heart of the discipler than mere knowledge. I like the way the Message reads, …It’s your heart, not the dictionary, that gives meaning to your words (Matthew 12:34, MSG). (cf Prov. 23:7) The most vital part of a teacher, preacher or disciple maker is NOT what he/she knows. It consists of who they are as a person. Jesus called his disciples to follow Him, not be in a classic educational environment.

The disciples’ primary classroom consisted of walking together or sitting together at a meal. Watching Jesus shaped His disciples the most. They observed how he paused to listen for His Father’s guidance before obediently acting. They learned from his humble demeanor when teaching, working a miracle, or responding to rejection or praise. They tried hard to understand what He commanded, instead of merely memorizing His commands. An authentic apprentice of Jesus is far more dynamic than what that person may say or ask others to do.

I compare the disciple’s classroom to that of a child growing up on a farm, a son or daughter of a shoemaker, carpenter, or mechanic. Paul’s primary request of those he discipled was that they pattern [their] lives after [his] and learn from those who follow our example (Philippians 3:17, NLT2). Discipleship is not the result of a formula, or a seminar, or an educational institution. Rather, it is the deep impression one person leaves on another. A spiritual influencer will not be faultless. However, they will exude an authentically humble and kind response to whatever they encounter, be it success or failure.

What have you been seeking to develop most in your life as a believer? Has it been your knowledge, people skills, or vocabulary? Or have you been seeking to nurture your heart’s passion to be more like Jesus? Who you are when no one is looking or when facing what others would consider hostilities, serious disruptions, or tragedies; speaks far louder than your education, smooth words, or charismatic personality. The members of the council were amazed … for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus (Acts 4:13, NLT2). In short, we focus discipleship on molding the heart of a child, young person, or adult, not just their knowledge, behavior, or skill set. It is a person’s heart that shapes their words and behavior (Matthew 12:34).

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