Discipleship in the new testament.pdf

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Discipleship in the New Testament

Introduction

Discipleship is a central theme in the New Testament, and it is essential for understanding the teachings and practices of Jesus and the early Christian church. In this document, we will explore the concept of discipleship in the New Testament, including its definition, characteristics, and implications for Christian living.

Definition of Discipleship

Discipleship is the process of becoming a follower of Jesus Christ, characterized by a deepening relationship with Him and a commitment to obeying His teachings. It involves a transformation of one's life, values, and priorities, as one seeks to become more like Christ.

Characteristics of Discipleship

  1. Obedience: Discipleship involves obedience to Jesus' teachings and commands. This includes following His teachings on love, forgiveness, and service, as well as His commands to love one another and to make disciples of all nations.
  2. Fellowship: Discipleship involves fellowship with other believers, as well as with Jesus Himself. This includes sharing in the Lord's Supper, praying together, and supporting one another in times of need.
  3. Mentorship: Discipleship involves mentorship, as believers are taught and guided by more mature Christians. This includes receiving guidance on how to live out one's faith, as well as receiving encouragement and support.
  4. Accountability: Discipleship involves accountability, as believers are held accountable for their actions and decisions. This includes being responsible for one's own spiritual growth and development, as well as being responsible for one's relationships with others.

Implications of Discipleship

  1. Spiritual Growth: Discipleship involves spiritual growth, as believers seek to become more like Christ. This includes developing a deeper understanding of God's Word, as well as developing a stronger relationship with Jesus.
  2. Service: Discipleship involves service to others, as believers seek to serve Jesus by serving others. This includes serving in one's local church, as well as serving in the community and around the world.
  3. Witness: Discipleship involves witness, as believers seek to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others. This includes sharing one's faith with others, as well as living out one's faith in a way that is attractive to others.

Examples of Discipleship in the New Testament

  1. The Twelve Apostles: The Twelve Apostles were Jesus' closest followers, and they were trained by Him to become His disciples. They were taught by Jesus, and they were sent out to preach and teach others.
  2. The Early Church: The early church was characterized by a strong sense of discipleship, as believers were taught by the apostles and other leaders. They were encouraged to follow Jesus, and they were supported in their spiritual growth and development.
  3. Paul's Ministry: Paul's ministry was characterized by a strong emphasis on discipleship, as he sought to teach and guide believers in their faith. He wrote letters to churches, and he traveled extensively to teach and preach.

Conclusion

Discipleship is a central theme in the New Testament, and it is essential for understanding the teachings and practices of Jesus and the early Christian church. It involves a deepening relationship with Jesus, obedience to His teachings, fellowship with other believers, mentorship, accountability, spiritual growth, service, and witness. By following Jesus and living out one's faith, believers can become more like Christ and make a difference in the world.

References