What does discipleship look like? This can spark so many conversations and lead you into some really deep thinking and practical application. However, many of us are unsure as to what it means to follow Jesus still. What we are asking is, what does it mean to be a disciple? Jesus told us to be disciples who make disciples. What does this mean?
What is Discipleship?
The word itself means, “to follow Jesus” or “to be a learner.” How can we practically measure this?
When we break it down to what it means to follow Jesus we must look at what Jesus said we are to do. He was very clear about three things. I believe they are essential to measuring discipleship. These three things are not an exhaustive list but rather a starting point for followers of Jesus to begin examining our lives as a disciple.
Love God (Mark 12:30)
Worship, Bible study, prayer, etc.
Love Our Neighbors (Mark 12:31)
Missions, serving, evangelism, helping those outside the church
Love Each Other (John 13:34-35)
Fellowship, care ministry, prayer, hard conversations, encouragement, supporting those inside the church
When we abide in the middle of these three, we see God transform lives. We can evaluate ourselves and find that some of these circles are easier than others. Our challenge is to see where we are and where God wants us to be. God wants us to be right in the middle, abiding in Him and bearing much fruit.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
Of these three, which one comes easiest?
Of these three, which one is hardest?
What steps do you need to take be move to the center?
This is not an end all method of measuring discipleship but it is a practical starting point to see how we are following Jesus.
How are we Loving God with our Lives? Our neighbors? Each other? How will we?