Scripture:
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1)
Reading:
When I first walked into an elementary school as a brand-new teacher I was absolutely clueless. I had graduated with honors, and I knew what good teaching could produce, but I had no idea how to actually get there. Thankfully, I was placed on a team with experienced teachers who took me in and showed me how it’s done.
That’s the story you’ll hear from most impactful teachers. The most valuable lessons didn’t come through theory and knowledge, but from mentorship, modeling, and life on life experience.
This is exactly the way Jesus calls us to grow as His disciples.
Jesus said, “‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’” (Matthew 28:18-20)
Jesus wasn’t giving his disciples a suggestion. He was giving them their mission. And it’s ours too. We are called to live under God’s authority, to follow the ways of His Kingdom, to immerse others into the reality of God, and to teach them how to do the same.
That’s a pretty heavy lift.
But here’s our hope – Jesus promised to always be with us. Through His Spirit He empowers us to live out what He has commanded. His Holy Spirit is our helper (John 16:7).
When you walk in obedience you open yourself to the flow of God’s grace. He renews your mind, restores your soul, revives your heart to bless you - and to empower you to disciple others.
Paul put it this way: “He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.” (Colossians 1:28)
This is the way of apprenticeship. Life on life. It’s how Jesus lived with His followers. And it’s how we are called to live today. It’s an invitation to bring people close, to point them to Jesus, and to grow side by side into His likeness (1 Timothy 4:8).
Your Turn:
1. Being a Christian is more than simply attending church. You are the church, the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:27). How might God be inviting you build up and disciple others?
2. Who has modeled the way of Jesus for you? How can you do the same for someone else?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You so much that You disciple me through Your Word, Your Spirit, and Your people. Help me to go and make disciples. Teach us to obey all you have commanded for Your glory and our blessing. Amen.