MEMORY VERSE: “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also to walk, even as he walked.” 1 John 2:6
BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 9:57-62
INTRODUCTION
The term “disciple” originally means a pupil or an apprentice to a teacher or master craftsman. It is another word for a follower of Christ, one who is learning to be like his Master Matthew 16:24; 1 Peter 2:21-22 Discipline is the quality of being able to behave and work in a controlled Way which involves obeying rules or standards. We shall examine what a disciple’s attitude to sin should be and the key disciplines of true disciples.
OUTLINE
- A DISCIPLE’S ATTRIBUTE
- KEY DISCIPLINES
- A DISCIPLE’S ATTRIBUTE
The starting point in following Jesus’ exemplary life is the forgiveness of sin and reconciliation to God through Jesus’ death. Then, a disciple of Jesus enters a life-long learning process to live the same life as Jesus lived Luke 6:40. Just as their Master, the disciples of Christ must: commit to doing all of God’s will while giving up own will Luke 22:42; Hebrews 10:5- 7; live a sin-free life and overcome lust Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:21-22 be willing to suffer Romans 8:17- 18; Hebrews 5:7-8; love unconditionally in the face of adversity Matthew 5:43-45; be diligent in and zealous for the things of God John 17:4; Hebrews 6:10-11, have burden for soul winning Matthew 9:36-38; Acts 4:16- 20; live sacrificially 2 Corinthians 8:9; 12:15; remain humble and obedient Philippians 2:5-8.
2.KEY DISCIPLINES
Anyone that will follow in the examples of Jesus successfully must be disciplined because discipline is the hallmark of success. Some of the key disciplines every disciple of Christ must have been listed as follows:
- Purposefulness: Concentration is the secret of power. The first discipline of discipleship is to be purposeful, determined, single- minded and focused on our pursuit of the Lord and His kingdom Philippians 3:13; Matthew 6:24
- Perseverance: Like our Master- Jesus, disciples must stay focused on the task and avoid distractions. Be persistent in always proclaiming the word, in well doing and avoiding discouragement Matthew 10:22-23.
- Promptness (readiness): The ability not to put off for tomorrow what must be done today is a great gift to be sought from God. It is the gift to joyfully run to what God instructs without delay. There is a peril in procrastination Psalms 95:6-8; Proverbs 27:1.
- Permanence: When we accepted Christ, there are some things that We used to do that we have no business doing now. Things like harmful habits, ruinous relationships, perilous pleasures, etc. We need to give up our former ways and not look back Hebrews 12:1- 2; Luke 9:58-62.
CONCLUSION
The role of every disciple is to stay committed and true to his Master. This will lead to great success
FURTHER READINGS:
SUN: Hebrews 10:36.
MON: Psalm 110:1
TUES: 1 Peter 3:22.
WED: Philippians 2:8.
THURS: Luke 12:19.
FRI: 1 Timothy 6:17.
SAT: John 17:8.