We often hear stories about new believers coming to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior; however, due to a lack of discipleship in their lives, these new believers are a walking example of one of the outcomes of “The Parable of the Sower.” In Matthew chapter 13:5-6, Jesus shares a parable that describes a sower going out to sow where “Some fell on stony places, where they did not have much earth; and they immediately sprang up because they had no depth of earth. But when the sun was up they were scorched, and because they had no root they withered away.” Later in Matthew 13:20-21, Jesus explains the parable by saying “But he who received the seed on stony places; this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.”
As I step back for a second and just ponder on this parable while thinking of the word discipleship, I’m reminded that discipleship is a never ending process of transformation to become the servant Jesus calls us to be. For if the Son of God came to serve and not be served, shouldn’t we have the same outlook on our personal lives? There are four particular verses in the Bible that help point me in the right direction regarding discipleship.
The first two verses can be found in Romans 1:11-12; “For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be well established – that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.” Do we enjoy fellowship with Christians that help us see the spiritual gifts God has equipped us with and do we provide each other with constant encouragement? We should be filling up each others spiritual gas tanks when we are in the presence of other Christians.
The second verse is 1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.” A new friend recently told me he is going to try to be a blessing to someone everyday this week. That is exactly what we should aim to do in our relationships with family, friends, co-workers and even strangers.
The last verse is Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Are you a walking testimony of what God has done in your life when His Son died for your personal sins? People in your life should not have to look too long or hard to know there is something different about you. The way you walk, the way you talk, your outlook on life and your passion to know God better and love Him more should be a bright, shining light to all of those crossing your path.
In closing, does discipleship really matter? You better believe it does. Christianity is a lifestyle and not just a one-time decision. It changes who you become for the glory of God. We are called to live in the world but not be of it. By focusing on seeking God’s righteousness, we draw closer to Him and deepen a relationship that fulfills the very reason we were created. The opportunity to enjoy personal companionship with the God of the Universe and to do good works for His glory and honor.
Your Brother in Christ,
Miguel "The Hitman" Viera #40
"Committed to tackling souls for Christ
"Visit www.trafford.com/06-0375 to read about Miguel's book "Walking on Higher Ground and Awakening the Spirit Within: A Christian Student Athlete's Spiritual Journey Through the Doors of College and Beyond." To learn more about Playing for Jesus Ministries, visit http://www.playingforjesusministries.vpweb.com.
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