Lots of variables exist in disciple making conversations. But there are constants too. Perhaps the most important constant is that a disciple make conversation be centered on following Jesus. The next constant is that it be Scripture centered.
Paul said: “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1 ESV) This statement requires two things of the reader. First, they know Paul and his life. Second, they must have a knowledge of Jesus to compare to Paul’s life.
The application for us is to be in regular, vulnerable, honest conversation with fellow disciples so that they know our life. Secondly, that we be students of Scripture so that we are maturing. The writer of Hebrews put it this way: “But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.” (Hebrews 5:14 ESV)
Being in God’s word (the Bible) daily is key to that “constant practice.”
With these two in place, my brothers know me and can point out the ways that I am and am not following Christ. That, after all, is the purpose of fellow disciple making: pointing one another to Jesus.
___________
Many posts, like today, come from my daily reading. I’m reading the @YouVersion plan ‘M’Cheyne One Year Reading Plan’. Check it out here:
This plan is a balanced diet of solid food for the maturing disciple.
Don’t be satisfied drinking milk. Your growth in maturity will be stunted. Solid food is imperative. Oswald Chambers (or any other classic writer) would be horrified to hear that his words, though helpful and valuable suppliments, were the extent of your devotions.
kingdom travelin' 