First Principles

Discipleship

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Introduction: Matthew 28:18-20

  1. What does Jesus want everybody to become?
  2. Which is the more popular term — "Disciple" or "Christian?" The word "Christian" only appears 3 times in the New Testament. It is the name those in the world gave the disciples, seven years after the church began. (Acts 11:19-26) The word "Disciple" occurs over 270 times in the New Testament.
  3. SAVED = CHRISTIAN = DISCIPLE
  4. Jesus came to make disciples. Only baptized disciples will be saved.

Jesus defines disciple, thus defining who is a true Christian.

  1. Mark 1:14-18
    1. This was the calling of the first disciples.
    2. Jesus said, "Come follow me."
    3. "Fishers of men" — Jesus gave these first disciples the real purpose for living.
    4. Immediately, they followed Him.
  2. Luke 9:23-26
    1. "If any man" means everyone… and anyone (v. 23).
    2. "Deny self" is to be like Christ in the Garden recorded in Matthew 26:36-39, "Not my will, but your will." Do not give into moods, emotions, etc.
    3. "Carry the cross daily." Die to ourselves every day (v. 23).
    4. Either gain world and forfeit your soul or lose your life for Jesus and save it (v. 25).
  3. Luke 14:25-33
    1. "If any man" means everyone… and anyone (v. 26).
    2. Count the cost (v. 28-30)
    3. Consider the alternatives (v. 31-32)
    4. Love Christ more than any person (v. 26)
    5. Persecutions (v. 27)
    6. Everything means everything (v. 33)
  4. Luke 11:1-4
    1. Must learn to pray. The disciples saw the strength Jesus received from the Father.
    2. A daily personal relationship with God will have daily prayers (v. 3).
  5. John 13:34-35
    1. Love one another.
    2. Be an active part of the fellowship.
  6. Matthew 28:18-20
    1. The command — "make disciples" — is given to all.
    2. Who is a candidate for baptism? People who make the decision to be a disciple.
    3. You need someone to disciple you to maturity in Christ.
    4. This is the only way to save the world!
Year Preacher Disciple
1 365 2
2 730 4
3 1095 8
13 4745 8192
33 12045 the world, 8 billion plus

Conclusion Questions: Am I a disciple? Am I a Christian? Am I saved? What do I need to do to become a disciple?