
Jesus knew all along what that journey toward Jerusalem would mean for Him. His disciples did not yet realize that it would also change their lives forever. Following Jesus had not always been easy, but it was about to get substantially more difficult. As a result, many of His followers would leave. However those who stayed would grow in faith and boldness and would continue to live out the teachings of Jesus while telling His story. The Southwest Church of Christ is here because they followed the command of Jesus to “Go and make disciples.” Those disciples made more disciples who in turn made more for generations until the disciples here at Southwest came along. Since we continue to fill that role here in Ada, we might ask ourselves the question, “What does a disciple look like?” If that’s who we are, it should be unmistakable to people around us.
In his book, D2: Becoming a Devoted Follower of Christ, Phil McKinney answers the question of what a disciple looks like with these characteristics:
- A disciple is committed. (2 Corinthians 5:15)
- A disciple is obedient. (1 John 5:1-5)
- A disciple is a lifelong learner. (Proverbs 9:9-10)
- A disciple is a fruit bearer. (Galatians 5:22-23)
- A disciple is devoted to prayer and practices. (Luke 11:1-4)
- A disciple is shaped by the Word. (Acts 17:11)
- A disciple is a servant. (Acts 6:1-4)
- A disciple is a witness. (Matthew 28:18-20)
- A disciple is a cheerful giver. (1 Corinthians 16:1-2)
- A disciple is faithful. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
As we strive to be better disciples and to fulfill the great commission to make more disciples, let’s consider what that looks like and how we can continue to grow in these areas.
– Brian
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.’” (Isaiah 52:7)