In these latter days, it is of the utmost importance that we, as followers of the true and living God, embrace the call to biblical discipleship. In a world rife with distractions and worldly temptations, the call to follow Christ is not merely an invitation—it is a command that demands total surrender, unwavering spiritual discipline, and a determined heart to forsake all things contrary to the Gospel.
A Life of Separation
Christ calls His disciples to be distinct from the world. The Bible says, "And Jesus answering said, Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19, KJV). This call is not one of mere association but a call to a radical life transformation. The believer is urged to forsake the ways of the world and embrace a higher, godly calling. Consider the admonition in Romans 12:2: "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." The disciple's minds, hearts, and lives must be set apart, consecrated solely to the purposes of the Lord.
The Necessity of Spiritual Discipline
Spiritual discipline is foundational to a life committed to following Christ. It requires intentional effort and steadfast dedication. The apostle Paul exhorts us in 1 Corinthians 9:27, "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." Just as an athlete disciplines his body in training, so must the believer discipline his spirit in studying God's Word, prayer, and self-denial. By such discipline, we are fortified against the subtle seductions of sin and the temporary pleasures of the world.
Dedication and Determination
The call to discipleship demands complete dedication and a resolute determination to follow Christ, no matter the cost. Jesus Himself reminds us in Luke 14:26, "If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple." This stark language emphasizes that true discipleship requires us to put God above all earthly relationships and desires. Believers are called to love God more and all other things less. The life that God calls us to is one of self-denial, wherein we willingly relinquish the transient pleasures of this world for the eternal riches of His kingdom.
Embracing the Life God Has Called Us To
To embrace the life that the Lord has ordained for us is to engage in a continual process of sanctification. It is a daily, deliberate turning away from the patterns of this fallen world and a daily, fervent commitment to live according to the precepts of His Holy Word. In a society that constantly seeks to dilute and compromise the truth, our call is to be unyielding in our pursuit of holiness and righteousness.
Practical Steps to Enhance Your Discipleship
- Regular Study of the Word: Commit to daily Bible reading and meditation on the Scriptures. The Bible is our guide and sword in spiritual warfare. As Psalm 119:105 declares, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Let the Word of God shape your thoughts, decisions, and actions.
- Dedicated Prayer Life: Establish a consistent prayer life. Approach the throne of grace with humility and believe God hears and answers our prayers. Hebrews 4:16 says, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Prayer is a means of communication with our Heavenly Father and a powerful tool for aligning our hearts with His will. Philippians 4:6 instructs, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
- Fellowship with Believers: Engage actively with a community of like-minded believers who are serious about living out the truth of the Gospel. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts us, "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together..." Fellowship provides accountability, encouragement, and mutual edification.
- Practice Self-Examination: Regularly assess your spiritual walk. Confess sin promptly and seek the transforming power of God's grace. Lamentations 3:40 advises, "Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the LORD." Self-examination ensures that you remain on the narrow path of righteousness.
- Active Service: Put your faith into action by serving within your church and community. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 calls us to go forth and make disciples of all nations. Serving others is a natural outflow of a heart that has been transformed by the Gospel.
- Perseverance in Trials: Understand that trials are an integral part of the discipleship journey. James 1:2-3 reminds us, "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience." Embrace difficulties as opportunities to grow in faith and reliance on God.
Conclusion
The call to biblical discipleship is not for the faint of heart. It is a call to live a life that is radically set apart for Christ—marked by spiritual discipline, unwavering dedication, and the resolve to forsake all that is worldly. As you commit to these practical steps, may you continually seek to honor the Lord in all you do, standing firm in the truth of His Word and the power of His grace. Remember, the journey of discipleship is not measured by the absence of struggle but by the perseverance and faithfulness with which we press on toward the prize set before us. I pray that Christ will continue to empower you as you pursue a life of true, biblical discipleship.
Missional Until He Comes,
Dr. David L. Sampson
Titus 1:3
