Merciful Monday: Discipleship Do's and Don'ts

Everyone has heard the term “disciple: but how many of us know exactly what it means to be one? Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology defines the word “disciple” as “the term that was used most frequently to designate one of Jesus’ followers…during his earthly ministry, and during the days of the early church.” Today on reading Matthew 10, we got the exact definition of what it means to be a disciple.

FACTS:

• There were 12 original disciples: Simon (aka Peter), Andrew, James, John, Phillip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James, Thaddeus, Simon, Judas Iscariot (10:2-4)
• Their mission was to: Announce that the kingdom of Heaven is near, heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons (10:7-8)
• Their payment was: Hospitality from others (such as free housing). They were told not to accept any money or exchange goods for their services (10:9-11)
• They were warned:
• That there were “sheep in wolves clothing.” They would undoubtedly be persecuted for their beliefs, but should fear God, no persecution. (10:16-22)
• Not to think too highly of themselves. “Students are not greater than their teachers, and slaves are not greater than their master. Students are to be like their teacher and slaves are to be like their master” (10:24-25

These were the words Jesus delivered to his 12 original disciples. But Matthew 28:19 commands us “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” So now, discipleship is the responsibility of each and every Christian. We need to remember that we all have a common purpose in this regard.

Now that we understand the biblical definition of discipleship, we have to walk in it! Don’t be discouraged when you confront persecution or when you are weary from doing things for the kingdom of God without pay. Jesus was crucified for his beliefs and he was the Son of God. So I think with the help of God, you and I can handle the tough moments of discipleship as well!

Merciful Mondays: Jael

^“For the Lord your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the solemn covenant he made with your ancestors.” Deuteronomy 4:31