Our Identity in Christ [Disciples]…

April 24, 2007 | 10:10 PM

“When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:17-20, NIV)

“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple…. In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26-27; 33, NIV)

I started this post back in February as a continuation of the series, but became very busy so I stopped. I’m still pretty busy, and I can’t stare at the computer screen too long or my eyes begin to hurt. So I added this and the last paragraph and I want you to contribute the rest.

When I think of the word disciple, I think of Rob Bell’s NOOMA “Dust.” It’s easily one of my favorite, and it’s filled with great historical understanding of discipleship. Bell explains that Jewish children of Jesus’ time would begin studying Torah at an early age. Torah is “the law” or “instructions.” It can also be translated “the way.” As the children got older, they would take up the family business, or, if they were the best and the brightest, they would apply to be taught by a specific rabbi. The best of the best, if they were accepted by the rabbi, would take up the rabbi’s yoke, or teaching. They would become that rabbi’s apprentices with the intent to become like that rabbi.

When we become disciples of Christ, we are taking on the teaching of Jesus. We follow his instructions. We are striving to be LIKE Jesus. Think of the implications of being like Jesus. What do you think?

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Posted in Christianity, Identity in Christ Series, Life, Prayer, Theology