Choosing Discipleship: A Life of Action and Transformation
In our life and faith journey, the choices we make hold immense importance. The concept of free will grants us the ability to choose, and it is through these choices that we shape our path. To highlight the significance of choices, let's take a playful approach by using the game 'Would You Rather' as a conversation starter.
'Would You Rather' is a fun and engaging game that opens up conversations and encourages us to consider different scenarios. It prompts us to think about our preferences and make choices between two options, sometimes challenging and thought-provoking.
By utilizing this game, we can explore the choices we make in our daily lives and how they align with our faith. It allows us to reflect on whether we are truly following God's path or simply going through the motions as Christians. 'Would You Rather' presents us with an opportunity to dive deeper into our desires, decisions, and ultimately, our devotion to Christ.
Christian vs. Disciple
Examining the Definition of a Christian and the Various Interpretations:
The term "Christian" can have different interpretations, with some defining it as simply believing in Jesus Christ, while others associate it with attending church or having religious rituals. It is important to dig deeper into what being a Christian truly means and how it aligns with one's actions.
The Need to Rectify the Label of Being a Christian With One's Actions:
Claiming to be a Christian should not be taken lightly. It’s not enough to simply profess a belief in Jesus without reflecting on His teachings in one's day-to-day life. Actions should align with one's faith to truly live as a Christian.
The Importance of Living In a Way That Reflects Jesus' Teachings:
Living as a Christian means striving to follow the example set by Jesus. This involves embodying values such as love, compassion, forgiveness, and humility in all aspects of life. It requires making choices that are in line with these teachings.
The Personal Journey of Self-Improvement and Self-Reflection:
Becoming a disciple of Jesus is not a one-time decision, but rather an ongoing process of growth and transformation. It involves continuously examining oneself, seeking to improve, and aligning one's thoughts, words, and actions with the teachings of Jesus.
Understanding the Connection Between Being a Christian and Being a Disciple:
Being a Christian and being a disciple are intimately connected. While the term "Christian" may have different interpretations, a disciple is someone who actively follows and learns from Jesus, seeking to imitate His character and teachings. To be a disciple is to fully embrace the teachings of Jesus and strive to live them out in daily life.
Defining a Disciple
It’s interesting to note that the term "Christian" is only mentioned three times in the Bible. This limited mention highlights the importance of its meaning and significance.
"and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So, for a whole year, Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch."
In Acts 11:26, it’s mentioned that the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. This implies that being a Christian is closely tied to being a disciple of Jesus.
Claiming being a Christian comes with a responsibility to align one's actions with the teachings of Jesus. It’s not enough to simply profess a belief without reflecting His teachings through one's daily life.
Interestingly, every time the word Christian is mentioned in the Bible, it’s when non-believers are describing a follower of Jesus. This means that non-believers play a role in defining what it means to be a Christian through their observations of Christians' actions.
Being a Christian is not just about belief, but also about actively following and learning from Jesus. It involves embodying His character and teachings in all aspects of life. By reflecting on Jesus' teachings through their actions, Christians can give meaning and depth to the word Christian.
Living As a Disciple
Living as a disciple of Jesus requires understanding the connection between desire, decision, and devotion. It is not enough to simply have a desire to follow Jesus; one must actively decide to prioritize His will over personal plans.
Choosing to follow Jesus' will can be challenging, as it often means sacrificing our own desires and surrendering control of our lives. However, the rewards and blessings of living as a disciple far outweigh any temporary sacrifices we may make. Jesus promises us abundant life and eternal rewards for faithfully following Him.
Sacrifice and obedience play a crucial role in the disciple's journey. As disciples, we are called to lay down our desires and submit ourselves to God's will. This requires a constant commitment to self-reflection and growth, as we strive to align our thoughts, words, and actions with the teachings of Jesus.
Community and participation in church resources are also essential for living as a disciple. Surrounding ourselves with other believers provides support, encouragement, and accountability. Engaging in connect groups, serving in the church, and participating in worship and Bible study opportunities can deepen our faith and help us grow as disciples.
Living as a disciple is not a one-time decision but an ongoing process of transformation. It requires daily choices to prioritize Jesus and His teachings in every aspect of our lives. By seeking His will, embracing sacrifice and obedience, and actively engaging with the church community, we can experience the true joy and fulfillment of living as disciples of Jesus.
Daily Choices and the Foundation
Living as a disciple of Jesus requires daily choices and a strong foundation in His teachings. It starts with a decision to follow Him and surrender our lives to His will. This initial decision is just the beginning, as we must continually choose to prioritize Jesus in every aspect of our lives.
Building a Life of Purpose
Every day, we’re faced with choices that shape our paths and determine the direction of our lives. These choices, no matter how small, have a significant impact on our overall journey.
Build Your House On a Solid Rock Foundation
Sand or Rock: Which Foundation is Stronger?
Imagine building a house on sand versus building it on a solid rock foundation. The house built on sand may initially appear strong, but when the storms come, it will crumble. In contrast, the house built on a solid rock foundation will withstand any challenges that come its way.
"Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it." Mathew 10:39
This verse speaks to the importance of building our lives on a solid foundation, one that is rooted in Jesus Christ. When we prioritize Him in all areas of our lives, we are building a strong and unshakeable foundation.
The Key to a Wise Life
Just like the house on a solid rock foundation, our lives need a solid foundation. By making daily choices that align with our values and beliefs, we are building our lives on a foundation that can withstand the storms of life.
A Reflective Journey
As disciples of Jesus, we are called to align our choices with His teachings. This requires a constant evaluation of our daily decisions and actions to ensure that they are in line with the principles of discipleship.
Choosing to be a disciple of Jesus is not a one-time decision, but rather an ongoing commitment. It requires us to actively choose His path, His teachings, and His way of life every single day.
By making the conscious choice to be a disciple of Jesus, we are building a strong and solid foundation for our lives. We are choosing to live a life of purpose, alignment, and transformation.
Let us remember the importance of our daily choices and strive to build our lives on the solid foundation of discipleship.
Make the Choice To Follow Jesus!
Your Choice to Follow Jesus
There is an invitation for non-believers to choose Jesus. The choice to follow Jesus is a personal decision that can lead to a life of transformation and purpose. It is an opportunity to experience the love, forgiveness, and abundant life that He offers.
For believers, there’s a challenge to evaluate their daily choices. Are they truly living as disciples of Jesus? Are their actions aligning with His teachings and reflecting His character? It’s a call to examine their hearts and strive for growth and alignment with God's will.
It is important to recognize the significance of making a difference and allowing Jesus to transform lives. By living as disciples and following His example, believers have the opportunity to impact the world around them and bring glory to God.
For those seeking Jesus, there are prayer partners and support available. It is important to reach out to others who can provide guidance, encouragement, and prayer as individuals embark on their journey of faith.
Ultimately, the call is to live as disciples and make a lasting impact. By choosing to prioritize Jesus and His teachings, believers can build their lives on a solid foundation. It is a daily choice to surrender to God's will and allow Him to guide and transform their lives.
“Would You Rather?”