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12 Never-mentioned Steps To Discipleship                                                  David O James Sr.

12 Never-Mentioned

Steps

To                       Discipleship

“Know Your Rights and Authority as Disciples of Christ”

Revised Edition                                                    David O. James Sr.

Copyright © 2009 by David O. James Sr.

Revised Edition 2011

ISBN-13: 978-1466253278

ISBN-10: 1466253274

Soft-cover

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

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David O. James Sr.

Forward

This study-book was written to inform, equip, and to mobilize the Disciples of Christ. It will also bring to light the present status of discipleship in our churches today; offer real biblical solutions to restore our right relationship with Jesus Christ; and help us to regain our effectiveness as Christian disciples in this present world. It is therefore important to know the correct structure and mission of the church in order for us to be prepared to make a difference in this corrupt and sinful world. My intention is not to judge or condemn any religious leader (please do not entertain those thoughts or you may miss the purpose of this study), but to make an attempt to open our eyes to our present condition as Christian disciples in this troubled world. We need to know where we are in order to get to where we need to go, and to know what we need to do. I am not in any way introducing a new religion, new denomination, another doctrine, or a one world church, as some people may think (Isaiah 5:20-Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter), but rather, a comprehensive study of Christian discipleship. Every disciple should do his part wherever God strategically places him. So, please open your hearts and minds and let us step through the pages of the bible together. Scriptures and insights written in this book were taken directly from the Bible without alterations.

Christian discipleship is a key element that demonstrates one’s love and devotion to God and to all people, and it helps us to discipline our lives in ways that would bring honor and glory to God. Many ministries are unaware that they are withholding many truths about discipleship from their members. This causes the movement and effectiveness of their congregants to be restricted, while the leaders secure positions of control and financial clout for themselves. If a person knows who he is, where he is, and where he needs to be, he can make a wise decision as to the direction in which he needs to go.

There is also a saying that “if you educate the people, you cannot control them and you cannot frighten them. People who know the truth are wise about their own authority and rights, and they don't surrender them to others”. Christian discipleship is not an option for believers in Christ, but a way of life. When we chose to believe in Jesus Christ and decided to follow Him, we became His disciples. That is, we became Christian disciples. He became our Lord and now we belong to Him.

God has created us all with the free will to make our own choices. He will never force us to serve or to obey Him. (Joshua 24:15; Romans 6:16) After his reading of this book, a young minister said that he realized he was raised in this generation to believe that the practices of discipleship and systems of operation that exist today in many churches are considered to be normal. He now recognizes that the Doctrine of the Nicolaitans (Revelations 2) fully exists today in the churches. This doctrine along with The Shepherding Movement, have significantly reduced if not crippled, the effectiveness of many Disciples of Christ, thus causing deterioration of the Christian lifestyle. A startling example of this spiritual corrosion can be seen in the lives of many people in our communities, and many of our children and students from grade schools to university campuses across the world.  This is a reflection of what’s really going wrong within our families and in our churches. Too many Christian marriages and families are falling apart, and in addition, many people are confused about their own gender. Obviously, there is very little Christian example for them to follow. This weakening of our effectiveness is due to the fact that many disciples have surrendered their rights and authorities to their church leaders. Every member of the body of Christ is called to a high standard of righteous living, has an equal anointing, and is endowed with a variety of spiritual gifts; not just the leaders of the church (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 1: 15-16). Jesus organized His church in such a way that His gospel could saturate the entire earth by all of His disciples, before His soon return. He did not set up any one human person or group to “rule” and to minister to His church. If we really know who we are, and what we need to be doing, we could walk accordingly. We do not want to continue the building up a false sense of hope and security, but to stir up the desire within us, to know that we are traveling in the right direction, and are on the right road. No one would like the experience of after being in church all his life, then to be told by Jesus at the Judgment Seat of Christ “ Depart from me, I do not know you”. (Matthew 7: 21-23; 19: 16-22 & chap 25)

Jesus gave us all the information we need to prepare us for that day when we will have to stand before Him to give an account for ourselves.

Matthew 24:14

And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

2 Corinthians 5:10

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

A warning from Jesus:

If a person plans to drive from Florida to California there are a number of things to consider in order to reach his destination and to arrive there safely in a timely manner.

1.        He should be physically, emotionally and financially prepared.

2.        His vehicle should be road-ready.

3.        He should know about his final destination.

4.        He should have a travel guide, road map and/or GPS.

5.        He should assess the weather conditions and be prepared for any sudden changes.

6.        Most importantly, as he drives, he should observe the road safety signs which are designed to get him to his destination, and to get him there safely.

For our spiritual journey, Jesus has left us a travel guide, a roadmap, and road-safety signs (warnings) that we should observe in order for us to make it safely to heaven. These warnings include avoiding the pitfalls resulting from the absence of love, selfish financial gains, hypocrisy, politics, power grabbing, sexual immorality, etc. Let us observe one of the first signs that is listed in the scripture below:

Revelation 1: 1-3

1The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: 2Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. 3Blessed is he that reads, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

In other words, Jesus had expressed that the church would be in a state of disarray at a certain time in church history. He warns us that when we become aware of this disorder, we should take heed to correct it because His coming would have been much nearer, and judgment begins in the house of the Lord (1 Peter 4:17). Christ did not leave an autocratic or dictatorial system for His disciples to maintain, but He left a structure by which we all need to work together under the direction of the Holy Spirit, Who will lead, guide, and remind us of all the teachings of Jesus Christ. [“He who has an ear (wants to know the truth), let him hear (will hear and understand) what the Spirit says to the churches] (Revelations 2:7). He will open your eyes if your hearts are willing to hear Him.

Luke 24:30-32

30And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. 31And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. 32And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

The doctrine of the Nicolaitans was mentioned in the Apocalypse of John to the churches of Pergamos and Ephesus in Revelation 2:1-17. This doctrine signifies a symbolic name of a party of Christians that represented the hierarchy or chain of command of a ruling class over the rest of the people. This ruling class developed a selective order of human leadership, and ignored the assigned leadership of the Holy Spirit (1 Samuel 8 & 9; John 14 & 16; Ephesians 4:30). The name Nicolaitan means, "Victors over the people" or "rulers over the world". Because of the teachings, structure, contextual clues, and warnings given by Christ, some authors suggested that the Nicolaitans were among those who maintained that there must be a religious hierarchy to control the spiritual development of the common people. This system allowed them to set themselves up as priests in a two-class system; one that would give them absolute control over the congregants, and also, that the people would be completely dependent upon them for all spiritual knowledge, guidance, and access to God. It was also said that they led lives of uncontrolled extravagance.

Another faction that still exists is ‘The Shepherding Movement’, which was formed some time in the 1970’s. This group also gained a reputation for controlling and displaying abusive behavior, with a great deal of emphasis placed upon the importance of obedience to one's own shepherd (church leader). In many cases, disobeying one's pastor or bishop was equal to disobeying God. Even though a few of these criticisms were exaggerated, many lives were damaged. One such testimony can be found in the book “Damaged Disciples”, written by Ron and Vicki Burks. Also, in his work "Real Evangelism", a noted Baptist evangelist Bailey Smith, mentioned having collected a very large number of testimonies of people he had encountered and who had been damaged by Shepherding teachings. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shepherding_Movement)

Since Christ expressed that He hates the deeds and doctrine of the Nicolaitans why have we started and are still presumptuously abiding in it? (Revelation 2: 6, 15)

1 Peter 4:17-18

17 for the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now “If the righteous scarcely be saved, where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”

Many Christians (disciples) who answered God’s call to go forth in ministries, were told that they could not do so because their church leaders did not approve of their calling, and if they did, insisted that they needed to have a “covering”, and their bishops’ or pastors’ (spiritual fathers) blessings (Romans 8:30). But let it be made clear that we were called and approved by God ‘before the foundations of the world’ (Ephesians 1:4) and not by any religious leader. (John 15:16). We are not called by God and then need to meet mans’ approval. In addition, others were also told that they were required to sit for a while longer or indefinitely under the pastor/bishop’s teachings before they are seen as being fit for service. Without a doubt, this is like training a child to use the potty but restricting his access to one. How could that disciple be not ready when he only spends an average of three (3) hours per week in church, under the “covering” of these leaders, but then spends the remaining one hundred and sixty-six (166) hours per week defending his newly-found faith and practices against his unsaved family, friends, neighbors, schoolmates, workmates, etc? What will the new disciple tell them when asked the reason why he is no longer participating in sinful acts (1 Peter 3:15)? Does his ministry begin at that point?

Despite the several years of feeding and teachings, many bishops and pastors still do not perceive anyone in their congregations fit to minister to their congregation or beyond the church walls, especially in their absence.  Instead, they would rather invite guest ministers, and pay them well as substitutes. It also seems that assistant pastors are mostly allowed to serve in the capacity of master of ceremonies in most cases. I assume that those leaders are not amply training Jesus’ disciples, or perhaps they are struggling with insecurities. Many congregants also believe that their role is to be what ever the pastor or bishop sees fit for them to do, and to be loyal to him and his church.

Some roles include the positions of an usher, greeter, deacon, elder, Sunday school teacher, parking lot attendant, music ministry participants, and many more.  In actuality, this is one preacher - many helpers; the elevation of one person, his armor-bearer with a prophet as his side-kick (2 Chronicles 18).  Either way, God’s mandate is not being fulfilled which is to make disciples of His flock so that they would be able to do everything Jesus had done, and more. Nothing pleases a teacher more than to witness a student put everything that student had been taught into action. There is a sense of fulfillment to know that all of the objectives have been mastered, and that that student could now assume the role of a teacher. After graduating from medical school, a person should be able to be a practicing physician.

John 3:30-31

30 He must increase, but I must decrease. 31 He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all.

John 14:12

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.

John 15:14-16

14 You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.

Therefore, sitting under religious leaders and teachers for many years, and not being able to perform anything pertaining to the will of God for your life is fruitless and a waste of precious time, energy and money. That is why a comprehensive and honest discipleship program is desperately needed in our churches today. Training needs to begin from the time the gospel message is preached and received, and it should continue throughout the new disciples’ developmental years. The training model that Jesus provided for us included direct teaching, observation, and opportunity for practice, for a period of about three (3) years, but some were sent out even earlier (Mark 5:1-20; John 4: 1- 42).  Jesus presented all of the pros and cons of discipleship to the crowds that were following him, and the people had to make the decision as to whether they wanted to follow Him or not (John 6). To be a Christian leader means that I must do the works that Christ did, as an example for others to follow. Jesus did not just stay in one place to feed and teach His disciples, He also demonstrated His Father’s will through love and compassion by performing healings, deliverances, casting out devils, preaching the gospel to the lost, etc. He then empowered His disciples and gave them opportunities to do the same. (Matthew 10)

I also do not believe that any mortal man could serve as a protector or “covering” (spiritual father/mother) over other human beings to ward off the attacks from the devil. (Job 1:9-11; Psalm 91:4). Jesus Christ sacrificially paid the price to secure that position. When the veil of the temple parted during the crucifixion of Christ, it indicated that there was no more need for any priest to represent us other than Jesus Christ our eternal High Priest.

Matthew 23: 8-12

8 But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Master, the Christ and you are all brethren. 9 Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. 10 And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. 11 But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.

Hebrews 3:1-3

1 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus, 2 who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house. 3 For this One has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses, in as much as He who built the house has more honor than the house.

Luke 23:44-46

44 Now it was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 45 Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. 46 And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ Having said this, He breathed His last...

Hebrews 4:16

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

When God called Abraham, He stood by him, no human could. God stood by Moses, Joshua, Deborah, Gideon, David, Elijah, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Jeremiah, and many others. No man or priests were capable of ‘covering’ them, neither can any man or church leader cover us or give us the final approval. In these last days (which initially started when Jesus came), God has given us Jesus (Hebrews 1), and has sealed us with His Holy Spirit to perform a work for Him; dare any man to take His place and hinder his servants. (Philippians 1:6).

Many church leaders were also cunningly trained to have and to override the authority of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in an attempt to make them-selves equal to Jesus, like Lucifer (Satan) tried to do before he was thrown out of heaven. (Isaiah 14:11-14). We were instructed and prepared to love God and each other, to preach, teach, pray for, and encourage each other (feed).

Ephesians 4:14

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.

Philippians 2:5-7

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant (a person obligated to service without wages), and coming in the likeness of men.

1 Peter 3:15

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.

Luke 10:19

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Isaiah 48:11; 42:8

For my own sake, I do this. How can I let myself be defamed? I will not yield my glory to another.

Romans 8:26

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Romans 8:27

Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Matthew 28:19-20

19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; 20Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I (not pastor/bishop) am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

1 Peter 5: 1-4

1 The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by pressure but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.

Romans 16:18

For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

Another situation that I have noticed is that many smaller churches “appear” to be struggling and ruthlessly trying to be like the larger ones. I believe they may be hoping to one day compete with or adapt to the worldly elements of the larger churches, without the resources to do so (Zechariah 4:10; 2 Corinthians 10:12). It is assumed that bigger churches could do more for God, but this is only possible if the mission of Christ is clear, and is in motion. In many churches, there is a lack of understanding concerning Jesus Christ, His mission, and His church. A misled church could mislead people away from God no matter what size it may be (Luke 6:39; He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit?). It is advisable to take note that Jesus did not say those that were misled would be excused, but rather, both leaders and followers will perish. Because many believers are being taught that they need a “human covering” and “spiritual father”, they therefore choose the more productive-looking churches where there are a lot of “well organized activities”; churches with pastors or bishops that would boost their carnal images; where no one has to depend on them; where they could hide in the crowd and still get credit as “partners in ministry”; or churches where they could get positions of authority over others. To build a fruitful Christ-centered ministry, requires an understanding of the mission of Jesus Christ, vision, faith, work, determination, money (in some cases), and commitment or correctly speaking, true discipleship. Many believers prefer ready-made ministries especially if they have celebrity church leaders, famous singers, distinguished members and extensive community programs. This type of reasoning is human (fleshly, worldly, carnal) and is not of God, and thus not reflective of Disciples of Christ.

To have exciting services, along with feeding and clothing the poor and other community programs is commendable, but we are called to win souls and to make disciples of them. Jesus did not invite 5000 or 4000 people (Matthew 14: 13-21 and 15: 29 -39) to a cook-out or annual feed-the-poor outreach program. These were not necessarily poor, homeless, hungry people, but those who followed Him or heard where He was so that they could hear His teachings (words to live by) and/or receive complete healing. They followed Him all day and their desire for His word suppressed their immediate desire for food until He was finished ministering to them. This was not a feed-the-hungry ministry. In the secular world there is a saying; “Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime”. We exist to positively influence the hearts and minds of people. A person in his right mind will make better choices to secure his own future.

Romans 12:2

1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship. 2Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will.

Isaiah 53:2

For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, And as a root out of dry ground. He has no form or comeliness (beauty); And when we see Him, There is no beauty that we should desire Him.

1 Corinthians 3:3-5

3 For you are still carnal (fleshly). For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men? 4 For when one says, “I am of Paul,” and another, “I am of Apollos,” are you not carnal?

1 Samuel 16:7 (Read entire chapter)

“Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

The mission of the church is to reach the lost and make disciples of them. We were called to replicate ourselves. Every disciple has to give an account of himself before God for the abilities given to him by God, for His service. We are strategically placed in certain places to perform the pre-ordained duties assigned to us by God. (Matthew 25:14-28; John 15). If a person is called and equipped to be a teacher then he will be accountable to God for that ministry. A parking lot ministry will not serve as a substitute (1 Corinthians 7:23-24). Ministry also extends way beyond our church doors. Christ did not intend for us to be bench warmers and/or cheerleaders. If I could lead one soul to Christ on my own, it means that I have been rightly taught, and then there is a possibility that that new believer could follow me to my church, and perhaps bring his family and friends with him (which I have seen and experienced). Eventually, they would be doing what I did so that they could reach others for Him. I believe that church leaders will have to answer to God for misdirecting His children, but more so the disciple who is walking in ignorance and disobedience. Too many Christians have set up their pastors and bishops as gods or “Molten (golden) Calves” (Exodus 32). Christ is supreme; God is a jealous God. God also warned His flock in Ezekiel 34: 17 -23, that he was going judge between the good sheep and the bad sheep because the strong ones with bad attitudes were mistreating and taking advantage of the weak ones.

Exodus 34:14

For you shall worship no other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.

Deuteronomy 6:14-15

14 You shall not go after other gods, the gods of the peoples who are all around you 15 (for the LORD your God is a jealous God among you), lest the anger of the LORD your God be aroused against you and destroy you from the face of the earth.

The church also assists in shaping the moral fiber of our society. People need to be taught the difference between right and wrong, from their childhood years.  The cost of our system of justice is too much of a burden on our governments and citizens, and cannot be remedied by politics, money, sticks, stones, guns, or legislation. It could only be cured directly or indirectly by the word of God that was spoken through Jesus Christ.

Matthew 18:5-6

5And whoever receives one such little child in my name receives me. 6But whoever shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it would be better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

Proverbs 22:6 - Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Hosea 4:6

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because you have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you, that you shall be no priest to me: seeing you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your children.

Luke 4:18

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.

I therefore plead with my fellow church leaders to heed the warnings of Jesus Christ in Revelations 2 & 3, to be true disciples of Him, and make disciples out of His flock so that they could do the same for others. Jesus has strictly warned us that the blemishes mentioned in the churches in Revelations 2 & 3, should be corrected before His return because He will be coming back for a church that is without “spot or wrinkle”. He knows how deceitful and persistent the devil is. He also knows all of our weaknesses and shortcomings and I thank Him for His grace and mercy, and for letting us know ahead of time, what is required of us when He returns. He is also forgiving and has given us lots of chances to get right with Him every morning when we wake up. Praise His holy name.

Ephesians 5:27

…that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.

2 Timothy 4:5

But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

Proverbs 24:16

For a righteous man may fall seven times and rise again, But the wicked shall fall by calamity.

Lamentations 3:22-24

22 Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. 24“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!”

God is calling on church leaders and is pleading with us to make disciples of His flock. He wants us to “Let my people go”. They belong to Him and not to us. Disciples should be prepared to face temptations, and for the persecution and scattering of the church that was and is to come, or that presently exists in some countries.  No disciple of Christ needs to be searching for a pastor or bishop to lead them in the time of such crisis, but to be comfortably and confidently able to call on God and follow the guidance of His Holy Spirit. In the New Testament, the church grew tremendously due to persecution because the disciples were able to spread the gospel wherever they fled. They were not looking for a human leader to comfort, lead and instruct them. Christ had already trained, warned and prepared His disciples for such future conflicts, and gave them perception to safeguard against divisions and the exploitation of His people.

Mark 14:27

And Jesus said unto them, all of you shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, “I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered”.

Luke 21:12-19

12But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake.  13And it shall turn to you for a testimony. 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. 17 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. 18 But not a hair of your head shall be lost. 19 By your patience possess your souls.

Acts 8:3-5

3As for Saul, he made chaos of the church, entering into every house, and capturing men and women, committed them to prison.  4Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.  5Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.

Matthew 10:18-20

18 You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. 19 but when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.

Acts 2: 21

And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord (not pastor/bishop) shall be saved.

Note:

There is a reason why I mentioned “pastor and the prophet as “his side-kick”. The reason is that many pastors utilize “prophets” or the “prophetic ministry” to advance their own agenda in the name of the Lord. They almost always prophesy words that would “tickle” the ears of the congregants, giving them a false sense of hope.

2 Timothy 4:2-4

2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.

2 Peter 2:17-19

17 These are wells without water, clouds carried by a tempest, for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever. 18 For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error. 19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage.

Jude 1:16-17

16 These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage. 17 But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ:

In 2 Chronicles chapter 18, we read where King Ahab did not want to hear the truth from the true prophet of God because he had his own selfish ambitious desires and did no want to do what was right in the sight of God. Instead, he called together about four hundred prophets who prophesied only what the king wanted to hear. Micaiah, God’s true prophet, prophesied to Ahab that he was going to die even though Israel would have the victory. He did not accept it and had the prophet imprisoned. Ahab also deceitfully setup King Jehoshaphat so that he could be mistakenly killed instead. However, God delivered Jehoshaphat, and Ahab lost his life on the battle field as was prophesied by Micaiah.

Some pastors drive out true ministers who do not go along with their program objectives so that they could maintain power and control over the other disciples. Ministers and prophets of God could and should only at this time make reference to Jesus and His teachings.

John 14: 26

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

John 15: 26

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceeded from the Father, he shall testify of me.

John 16:7-8

7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. 8 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.

Jeremiah 23:20-22

The anger of the LORD will not turn back until He has executed and performed the thoughts of His heart. In the latter days you will understand it perfectly. 21“I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran. I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied. 22 but if they had stood in My counsel, and had caused My people to hear My words, Then they would have turned them from their evil way and from the evil of their doings.

Jeremiah 5: 28- 31

28 They have grown fat, they are sleek; yes, they surpass the deeds of the wicked; they do not plead the cause, the cause of the fatherless; yet they prosper, and the right of the needy they do not defend. 29 Shall I not punish them for these things?’ says the LORD. ‘Shall I not avenge Myself on such a nation as this?’ 30“An astonishing and horrible thing has been committed in the land: 31 the prophets prophesy falsely and the priests rule by their own power; and My people love to have it so. But what will you do in the end?

Ezekiel 13:6-8

6 They have envisioned futility and false divination, saying, ‘Thus says the LORD!’ But the LORD has not sent them; yet they hope that the word may be confirmed. 7 Have you not seen a futile vision, and have you not spoken false divination? You say, ‘The LORD says,’ but I have not spoken.” 8 Therefore thus says the Lord GOD: “Because you have spoken nonsense and envisioned lies, therefore I am indeed against you,” says the Lord GOD.

Acknowledgements

I would like to recognize my father Frederick A. James, for his perseverance and unwavering faith in God as he fulfilled His mission before God saw it fit to call him home. By trade, dad operated a small building constructing company to support his family (mom and ten children.) He never stopped working while conducting evangelistic crusades, revivals and church-planting, unless his ministering required him to be out of town for that week or more. My mother, Lillian E. James, on the other hand, was a choir director, and also led a women’s bible class and prayer group. In addition, she was a gifted seamstress and used her skill to create the extra income needed to support our family. She never wavered as a disciple even while committed to a nursing home, as her life’s journey neared the end. She started a bible study group in that nursing home even though her left leg had been amputated, was receiving dialysis, and was suffering from a history of hypertension. My father, who lived with my younger sister and her family, took over the bible class after mother’s death in January of 1999. He was also an associate minister of a church, and a minister at a drug rehab hospital.

Dad was admitted to a hospital in June of 2009 and was diagnosed with pneumonia but preached to the nurses and doctors while in their care, until the Lord took Him home on July 5th 2009.

Dad and mom, and many other true disciples, had been role models for us to follow. What struck me the most was whenever my parents were asked to minister, they asked three essential questions; when, where (directions), and for what length of time they were needed. They mirrored and taught us true discipleship. They were never distracted, and never yielded or entertained thoughts of fear. We were exposed to life-threatening situations in ministry among Hindus, Muslims and native Indians. Dad had Holy-Ghost boldness, determination, selflessness, love, and compassion for all mankind, even though he never spoke in unknown tongues. Mom and dad also modeled extraordinary teamwork. It was said that behind every successful man is a good woman. Rather, I would add, God and a good woman.

I would also like to give God the glory for my wife Dr. Sylvia James (Ed.D.) and our children; David Jr, Ruth, Gloria (designed the book cover), Justine, and my brother and sisters. They have always given me their love, support and patience in ministry participation, church-leadership and outreach ministries.

There were many other families and acquaintances in ministries that impacted and enhanced ours. They are too numerous to name individually, but I thank God for placing these ministers in our pathway when we needed them, and we still do need them. We all need each other.

References include the Holy Bible (different versions) and Webster’s dictionary.

Most of the scriptures were printed for your convenience. However, it is always advisable to read these scriptures from the Bible for yourselves, and pray that the Holy Spirit gives you the understanding and insight to rightly divide the word of truth. I would also like to advise you that what ever version you choose, to always compare it with the other versions for a much clearer understanding. Most importantly, check your interpretation with the actual teachings and deeds of Jesus Christ. It is your life, your mind, your soul and your eternal future. Some scriptures were repeated to further support a given statement or subject matter, and some statements were repeated, italicized, printed boldly, or underlined to indicate their importance to the subject matter. Please keep in mind that the scriptures were not written to the ungodly, but to guide and to draw the believer closer to God.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Matthew 7:13-15

13 “Enter in at the straight gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many will go there”. 14 “Because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads unto life and a few, will find it.” 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are predatory or greedy wolves”.

Acts 17:11

These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

In Loving Memory

I hereby dedicate this book to Frederick & Lillian James for their uncompromising faithfulness and obedience to the will of God by touching and changing lives across the world. Their love for people was unselfish and unbiased, and they mirrored true Christian discipleship as was taught by Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

About The Writer and This Study-Book

My name is David James, and I was born on August 4th, 1954 in Georgetown, Guyana. I was involved in music ministry from the age of 13, accepted Jesus Christ as my savior at the age of 16, and was baptized at the age of 17. I am a fruit of missions. I came to the USA in 1976 to attend a secular college where I felt for the first time, the call of God to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ to everyone. I experienced an extreme burden for lost souls and backslidden Christians. I also often struggle with my inadequacies but have to remind myself that God is using an imperfect but sometimes willing vessel, to perform His perfect will, in order to touch and renew the lives of people. My job with the public health department has opened my eyes and ears to the cries for deliverance from people with various kinds of harmful and recurring habits and addictions that only the power of God could free them from. This is a major part of the message of the gospel and the mission of the disciple, that is, to set the captives free. There were several factors that contributed to this study on discipleship. These factors included and not limited to, my knowledge of the Bible, the Holy Spirit, my daily observations and experiences, input from other Christian and non-Christian friends and family, my life as a pastor for about 16 years, and being a Christian musician for over 40 years.

My religious affiliations included memberships at the Church of The Nazarene, the Christian Brethren Church, Full Gospel Church, Church Of God In Christ, United Methodist, Assembly of God, Southern Baptist, some non-denominational churches and of course, the ministry I organized called River of Life Evangelistic Outreach, in Texas. I have also worked with other churches and ministries including Youth for Christ, Youth with a Mission, Lutheran, AME, Apostolic, Adventists, Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian and Elim churches. I am not a “church hopper” but I usually look beyond denominational boundaries, and offer my services to churches and ministries that are in need of such. I believe that every Christian has to give an account to God for the anointed gifts that were given to them. If God called me to teach or sing, then I must find a place that needs those services; a place where I could fulfill my calling. The most exciting and rewarding ministry was outreach ministry, where I participated in ministering in jails, prisons, halfway houses, juvenile centers, beach outreach ministries, homeless shelters, nursing homes, hospitals, tent revivals, cell groups, community outreach programs, radio and television. In addition to preaching and teaching the word of God, my skill as a musician and the anointed vocal abilities of my wife and children, opened many doors of ministry across different races, cultures, ethnic groups and social classes. My wife and children also speak Spanish.

One of my greatest concerns is that for a number of years, I have noticed a gradual decline of the preaching of the Gospel of Christ which I believe contributed to the rapid moral decline of our society. Many of our churches have become political, rich, and complacent. Their focus seems to be on fund-raising for endless phased building programs, questionable projects, and personal wealth. Meanwhile, the prisons are being filled with our young people, and a continuous increase of illegal drug use, alcohol, divorces, sexual misconduct, abortions (mainly due to sexual misconduct), various diseases, divisions, gangs, etc.

Another astonishing finding is that according to a 1998 United Nations census on religion, there were at that time, about 23,000 Christian denominations, and they all somewhat believed differently. “A house that is divided will not stand”. There is only one doctrine, one Lord, one faith, one baptism. (John 7:15-17; Ephesians 4:5, 2John 1:8-10). After preaching the full Gospel of Jesus Christ in some churches, I had to defend my position by reminding the church leaders and congregations that I was just repeating what I was taught by the missionaries (Apostles) they sent and supported that came from their own congregations. I also had to remind them that I was obeying the mandate that Christ left for us to follow.  I was told that I was preaching a gospel of condemnation (conviction because the truth hurts- Hebrews 4:16- For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart).

I believe that God has called and anointed me in this hour to be an end-time preacher. I struggled with this assignment for years but God reminded me of my assignment over and over as He did Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and His disciples in Matthew 10.

I also remembered sometime in the 1980’s when I was invited to a church by a fellow believer, and after the service, as his pastor passed by us, turned to me and said “you are one of those end-time preachers”. His pastor did not know me, my beliefs, or my struggles, but was given a word of knowledge by the Spirit of God to remind and encourage me concerning my assignment. For at that time I had not started preaching, and I was a very shy person. There were several other confirmations, although like Gideon, I could not see myself as being a part of such an assignment; but let God be God. (Judges 6)

It was also very troubling to be awaken on several occasions in the midnight hours by dreams of being used by God, bringing deliverance to people, and urging me to meditate and pray, seeking His will, then to open the bible to one of these scriptures below. I remembered at one time reaching for my bible, and it fell and opened up at one of the two scriptures printed below, and was led to the following scriptures on latter days.

Jeremiah 1: 4-19

4 Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying:  5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you;

before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” 6 Then said I: “Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.” 7 But the LORD said to me: “Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’

for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak.  8 do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,” says the LORD. 9 Then the LORD put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the LORD said to me: “Behold, I have put My words in your mouth.

10 See, I have this day set you over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out and to pull down,

to destroy and to throw down, to build and to plant.” 11 Moreover the word of the LORD came to me, saying, “Jeremiah, what do you see?” And I said, “I see a branch of an almond tree.” 12 Then the LORD said to me, “You have seen well, for I am ready to perform My word.” 13 And the word of the LORD came to me the second time, saying, “What do you see?” And I said, “I see a boiling pot, and it is facing away from the north.” 14 Then the LORD said to me:  “Out of the north calamity shall break forth on all the inhabitants of the land. 15 for behold, I am calling all the families of the kingdoms of the north,” says the LORD; “They shall come and each one set his throne at the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem, against all its walls all around, and against all the cities of Judah. 16 I will utter My judgments against them concerning all their wickedness, because they have forsaken Me, burned incense to other gods, and worshiped the works of their own hands. 17 “Therefore prepare yourself and arise, and speak to them all that I command you. Do not be dismayed before their faces, lest I dismay you before them. 18 For behold, I have made you this day a fortified city and an iron pillar, and bronze walls against the whole land— against the kings of Judah, against its princes, against its priests, and against the people of the land.

19 They will fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you. For I am with you,” says the LORD, “to deliver you.”

Ezekiel 33:1-9

1 Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2 “Son of man, speak to the children of your people, and say to them: ‘When I bring the sword upon a land, and the people of the land take a man from their territory and make him their watchman, 3 when he sees the sword coming upon the land, if he blows the trumpet and warns the people, 4 then whoever hears the sound of the trumpet and does not take warning, if the sword comes and takes him away, his blood shall be on his own head. 5 He heard the sound of the trumpet, but did not take warning; his blood shall be upon himself. But he who takes warning will save his life. 6 But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet, and the people are not warned, and the sword comes and takes any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood I will require at the watchman’s hand.’ 7 “So you, son of man: I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore you shall hear a word from My mouth and warn them for Me. 8 When I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you shall surely die!’ and you do not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood I will require at your hand. 9 Nevertheless if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but you have delivered your soul.

Matthew 10

1 And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease….. (Please read the whole chapter)

Matthew 10:39

He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.

Any military personnel, missionary (Apostle) or even gang member could relate to the gravity behind this type of directive. We all have this kind of obligation as ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This is the kind of mandate God commanded His Son Jesus to follow and to give to us all to pursue. Deuteronomy 18:15-19; Matthew 10; Luke 22: 41-42; John 17; Acts 1: 8; 2 Corinthians 10: 3-5.

This honest and comprehensive discipleship study, when completed, will bring about the long awaited revival many preachers have been talking about. God used many experiences and concerns to open my eyes to the need for an honest comprehensive Discipleship program that would educate, empower, motivate and mobilize the children of God to perform the will of God through Jesus Christ. This is an independent study and is not affiliated with or created by any of the other denominations mentioned above. This is not a new religion, new denomination, or another doctrine; it is the message for this hour that existed before this hour. The words of this book were taken directly from the Bible without alterations. This study also applies to me, for God knows my weaknesses and shortcomings and is still working on me to make me the disciple He wants me to be.

I remembered having a vision in which I was walking down a dry dusty road, when suddenly a man called out to me, telling me to get out of the way because he was about to open a gate.  It was then I realized that I was walking on a dried-up riverbed and he was standing on the bank of the river next to the flood gate.  As soon as I removed myself from the riverbed, he opened the flood gate and water gushed into the river to fill it up, thus bringing life again into that area. That vision gave birth to the ministry I organized, called “The River of Life Evangelical Outreach”. http://www.riverolife.com.

/Whose Disciple Are You?

Please indicate your position below by placing an ‘X’ in the appropriate box.

o         Disciple of Your Church

o         Disciple of Your Pastor or bishop

Disciple of Jesus Christ

Despite the persuasive tactics of people and organizations, or the compelling desire to follow Christ, the decision to be a designated follower of a person, group or organization, will always be in your courtyard. For your sake, I hope you have chosen the right leader to follow.

Christian discipleship principles help to establish the expected guidelines, expectations, and rules given by Jesus Christ, to help His disciples to achieve their mission and goals.  These principles, sometimes also referred to as being Christ-like, are general terms that outline the collective attitudes, beliefs, common experiences, procedures, and values that are prevalent in Christianity. Please feel free to take notes.

Table of Contents

        Forward

        Acknowledgements

        In Loving Memory

        About The Writer And This Study-Book

        Whose Disciple Are You?

        Table of Contents

Section One

        Introduction

        Structural Analysis of Discipleship

        Love is The Motivation for Discipleship

        Cultural Awareness and Diversity: An Expression of Love and Acceptance

        Important facts to consider about Discipleship

Section Two

        Step 1: To be a Christian disciple a person must first know the meanings of the words disciple and Christian

        Step 2: To be a disciple or follower, a person must be able to identify his leader or master.

        Step 3: To be a disciple a person must know about his leader

        Step 4: To be a disciple a person must know his leader

        Step 5: To be a disciple a person must believe and accept his leader

        Step 6: To be a disciple, a person must understand and know the vision and mission of his leader

        Step 7: To be a disciple a person must be obedient and committed to the leader and his mission

        Step 8: To be a disciple a person must desire and pursue the same purpose, mission, and outcomes as his leader.

        Step 9: To be a disciple a person must demonstrate his allegiance to his leader by his lifestyle, his fruitfulness and his faithfulness.

        Step 10: To be a disciple a person must count the cost and prepare to pay the price of discipleship.

        Step 11: To be a disciple a person most exercise faith in God through Jesus Christ to keep, protect and provide for him as he activates the mission.

        Step 12: If you have decided to follow the 11 steps mentioned above, then this step is for you.

Section Three

        His Expectations of Us as Disciples

Section Four

        My Observations and Recommendations

Tip: Our Outward Appearances and Actions

Section Five

       Conclusion

Glossary

Section One

Introduction

Christian Discipleship is not an option for believers in Christ, but a way of life for all Christians to follow. Many believers are unable to give a clear definition of a Christian or a disciple. This means that a person cannot practice what he does not know. Therefore, failure and substandard living would be inevitable. A person cannot be a Christian if he/she is not a disciple of Christ because the name “Christian” denotes a “Christ-follower”- a light in a dark world; and salt in a distasteful world.

There are marked differences between a follower of Christ and a follower of any other person or organization. Despite these differences, the basic theory of dedication and determination, as well as the desire to accomplish the set goals, are somewhat the same. The major differences between the followers would be summed up in the vision, mission and purpose statements of that leader or organization.

In this study-book, I will discuss some steps that we all should consider if we desire to be followers of Jesus Christ. I will point out a few comparisons between the different types of followers or disciples in an attempt to bring a clearer understanding of Christian discipleship. I will try my best to be simple and clear in order to minimize any misunderstandings. His desire is that everyone should be able to read, hear, understand, and put His mission into action. I am still learning to be like Jesus.

1 Corinthians 2:1-5

3And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. 3 I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, 5 that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.

Many Christians today are not taught to be Disciples of Christ but are subtly taught to be disciples of a specific religious organization, or religious leader. Many bishops, pastors and other religious leaders did not recognize this deception and therefore taught this deceptive teaching to their congregation and at bible schools. As a result, many Christians do not know how to pray for themselves, for others in crisis at a moment’s notice, or to guide someone in making a decision to receive Christ in their lives. Instead, according to their discipleship training, focus is being placed mainly on creating good stewards (faithful tithers), and committed members who will be obedient to their church leaders, and denominations. Anything beyond those practices would be considered the bishop or pastor’s job. As a result, many church members do not attach any significance to the value of other members, other Christians, or even outreach programs by members of their own churches, unless approved by their church leader. They are limited to inviting people to church, and then they rely on their leaders to get the “un-churched” saved, enrolled as members, or to be prayed for. Even in their cell groups, they are limited to a welcome/sermon video of, or from their leader. Such dependence on a human being is very troubling and creates causes for concern. The problem that is being overlooked is, these “un-churched” people that were invited could die before that following Sunday or be negatively influenced by the devil into doing something foolish before they could get the help they need. I also noticed that whenever I visited a church for the first time, I would be asked if I have a church home, followed by a sermon on the awesomeness of their pastor. Before long, someone would ask me what I do for a living. No one would ever ask me whether I was born again or saved, not even the pastors. We were not called to promote a church leader, a denomination, or to preserve any man-made religious traditions, but to present Jesus Christ as the Savior and Deliverer of this sin-sick and lost world. (Matthew 15:9 – “But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men”).

Four Christian women were very upset with their pastor because he was not able to visit a sick member of his church that was in the hospital. They knew that I was a pastor and therefore asked my opinion on that matter before they could confront him. I explained to them that that church was very large, that I was sure the pastor had some familial responsibilities, and maybe too much on his schedule for that month. I suggested that they should team up; visit the sick congregant, pray with her and encourage her. Almost immediately one of them said, “We can’t do that”. “That’s the pastor’s job; and that’s why we pay him”. The assistant pastor was not good enough for them. The others agreed with her comments. Their response took me by surprise. A discipleship program should be designed to prepare a Christian to be used by the Holy Spirit to fulfill the will of God through Jesus Christ (Christ being the first example). The disciple should also be able to distinguish between a bishop/pastor’s agenda and the agenda of Jesus Christ. Some ministers may also say that God is doing a new thing which in view, might be a “dressed-up” religious tradition of a denomination.  We belong to Jesus and will have to be accountable to Him at the judgment seat of Christ because He is accountable to God for us (John: 17). He has to present us faultless before His father. God sees His blood instead of our sins. Jesus Christ is continuously making intercession for us before His father (Hebrews 7:22-25). We must listen to the Voice behind the cloud. (Matthew 17:5)

Mark 7:8-9, 13

8 For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other such things you do.” 9 He said to them, “All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition… 13Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which you have delivered: and many such like things you do.

2 Corinthians 10:15-17

15 not boasting of things beyond measure, that is, in other men’s labors, but having hope, that as your faith is increased, we shall be greatly enlarged by you in our sphere, 16 to preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s sphere of accomplishment. 17 But “he who glories, let him glory in the Lord.”

2 Corinthians 4:2

But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

2 Corinthians 11:13-15

13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works.

Ephesians 4:14

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

2 Corinthians 2:11

Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices

Christians cannot be obedient to God unless they know what He likes and what He does not like.

Please feel free to study this book and gain additional insight on the commands of Jesus Christ, what He expects of us, and our rights and authority as His disciples. You will see Christ like you have never seen Him before; in His fullness.

Structural Analysis of Discipleship

In most secular organizations, there is a chain of command. Workers are expected to report to their supervisors who in turn, report to their managers. Agendas and instructions from the managers are passed down to the workers by the supervisors. An integral part of the supervisor’s responsibilities is to make certain that the employees follow office policies and procedures as were directed by management, in a disciplined manner. Therefore, to oppose the supervisor is to oppose management. Jesus obeyed every command that God gave to Him (Deuteronomy 18:15-19; John 17; Philippians 2:5-11), and was given all authority in heaven and on the earth (Matthew 28:18). Jesus said; “I am the Way, the Truth, the Life, and the only way to God” (John 14:6). In John chapters 10 and 15, Jesus re-emphasized His position of authority and leadership of the flock of God, given to Him alone, by God. In Luke 6:46, He asked His disciples; "Why do you call me 'Lord’ and do not obey me? [Note; Jesus did not demand obedience like some church leaders, but was appealing to their conscience because obedience to Him is a choice. (John 6: 64-69)]. Acts 4:12 stated; “No other one could bring salvation: for there is no other name on this earth that is given among men that could save man”. These scriptures are clear indications of His given supremacy and position as our leader. (John 10:16)

A true leader makes sure that his followers are moving in the right direction. He also monitors conditions in new situations to ensure that the road under construction is still the correct one and is still going in the right direction. A good leader does not spend his time micro-managing people. He is expected to present a clear vision and a trail he is willing to walk on first. Good leadership is a relationship between leader and follower that can energize an organization. In Matthew chapter 23, Jesus was concerned about the abuse of power that was exercised by the religious leaders. In verses 8-12, He cautioned His disciples by saying;

8"But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi (pronounced /ˈræbaɪ/, Hebrew for "my master/lord/teacher"), for you have only one Master and you are all brothers. 9And do not call anyone on earth 'father,' for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. 10Nor are you to be called 'teacher,' for you have one Teacher, the Christ. 11The greatest among you will be your servant. 12For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

John 13:15-17

15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.

Philippians 2:5-7

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant (a person obligated to service without wages), and coming in the likeness of men

Matthew 10:33

But whoever denies (disagrees with, rejects, contradicts, etc) Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.

For example, separation of powers is a political doctrine originating from the United States Constitution, according to which the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the United States government are kept distinct in order to prevent abuse of power. This U.S. form of separation of powers is associated with a system of checks and balances.

Romans 12:10

10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.

Romans 12:16

Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

1 Corinthians 4:6

Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other.

Philippians 2:3

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

In the book of James chapter 3:1, James admonishes us quote; “My brethren, do not become many masters among you because you shall receive the greater condemnation.”  Many of us that are called by God as leaders believe that we were called to control, and to set up a system of dictatorship (autocracy) over God’s flock. Many Christians participate in ministries only if they are given leading roles. Sometimes we are more concerned about rank and position of authority (i.e., deacon, elder, pastor, bishop, apostle) instead of making disciples, feeding the flock, and reaching the lost. We can call on Jesus by a single name, but are compelled to use titles to address church leaders. There are many ministries in which all believers are addressed as “Bro. John or Sis Susie”, in the Lord. The world respects people with certain titles, prefixes and suffixes, but Christians are commanded to equally respect each other. We are not of the world (John 15:19). That is why Jesus said that only the humble will enter His Kingdom (Matthew 18:2-4).

Christ never demanded a special title or obedience from us, submission was always recommended because we were created by God with a will of our own to choose. Jesus selected 12 disciples to work with Him, and after the death of Judas (after Christ had ascended to the Father), the eleven apostles/disciples prayed and voted for Matthias to replace Judas (Acts 1: 23-26). Christ did not select or elevate any of His disciples whom He trained, to supervise the others because He is our Leader, the only Head of His body (the church).

Today there exists in the body of Christ, a search and struggle for significance and power among the saints of God, but very little desire to take the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. Sharing the gospel requires love, respect, truth, obedience, humility, sacrifice, boldness and selflessness; not an expectation of the “Red-Carpet” treatment. Jesus accepted and rode on a donkey on a pathway covered with coats, cloaks, and palm leaves. He did not request or demand horses, chariots and the processions of Kings and noble men, but humbled Himself in order to offer us everlasting life.

Philippians 2:8

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

2 Corinthians 8:9

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.

Matthew 18:2-4

2 Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, 3 and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

I have witnessed church leaders verbally establishing their authority and threatening the members of their congregations if they do not obey questionable so-called “God given” commands. I have also heard them brag about their power to hire and fire their congregants and to remove them from fellowship. I know of congregations that have to stand up and applaud when their leaders enter the sanctuary, and some of them that were brought into the sanctuary in “litters” (sedan chairs or special chairs carried on men’s shoulders); and also some that enter the church properties in helicopters and limousines. These practices are not what God intended for His Church. Nothing in the scriptures suggested that we rule by intimidation.

Matthew 15:9

But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Colossians 2:21-23

21 “Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle,” 22 which all concern things which perish with the using—according to the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.

In 1 Peter 5:1-6, it reads;

“I encourage you elders of whom I am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a participant of the glory that shall be revealed:  2Feed God’s sheep which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by control, but willingly; not for filthy money, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but examples to the flock.  4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will be given a crown of glory that does not fade away.  5 Similarly, you younger Christians, submit yourselves unto the elder. As a matter of fact, all of you should be in submission one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God opposes the proud, and gives grace to the humble.  6 “For that reason, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.”

Disciples were called and trained to serve, be examples, and to train more disciples (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 6: 1-6) "Go forth and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Disciples must keep this cycle continuous. It is very important to recognize the fact that because a person was called into ministry, does not mean that God appointed that person or anyone else to have control over His people. It is also noticeable that many Christians have more respect for religious leaders than for God. It also seems that many Christian wives have more respect for their pastors than for their own husbands (Ephesians 5: 22-33), at a time when husbands need to be honored and their voices heard in their own homes. Some Christians are on their best behavior in the presence of religious leaders but forget that God is always there even when their leaders are not.

Many ministers, have been misinformed to believe that God will ultimately grant us according to our faith, a mega church with thousands of people to fill it, and a lot money, along with a mansion, finest clothing, large bank accounts, airplanes, helicopters, yachts, the best foods, and expensive cars, on the backs of His flock (Ezekiel: 34). That is descriptive of some CEOs of business organizations and not reflective of the Disciples of Christ. This type of systems thinking creates ministers who think they have to look out for themselves by competing, splitting churches, and exploiting the Bible and people in order to establish their own religious empires, family heirlooms/dynasties, power and control structures that are later inherited by their children; money that was invested by God’s people, for God’s people. Meanwhile, the children of the congregants have no hope, but are waiting for their time to undergo the same abuse by the pastors’ sons. This system blossomed in the latter New Testament age as was prophesied in Revelations 2:1-17. Ministry was never meant to be an autocracy or dictatorship, but a collaboration of its members in their use of gifts and abilities under the direction of the Holy Spirit. Even in the temple age from the time the first temple was built, to the time of Christ, the Levites, priests, Pharisees, Sadducees, etc, worked in groups or councils. The gospel of Christ was given to bring deliverance to those that are captives of Satan, and not for personal and financial gains. Jesus came to set the captives free and has sent us to do the same and not to put yokes around their necks. (Luke 4:18-19)

2 Peter 2:2-4

2 And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3 By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber.

Ezekiel 34

Shepherds and Sheep

1 The word of the Lord came to me: 2 "Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Woe to the shepherds of Israel who only take care of themselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? 3 You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not take care of the flock. 4 You have not strengthened the weak or healed the sick or bound up the injured. You have not brought back the strays or searched for the lost. You have ruled them harshly and brutally. 5 So they were scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild animals. 6 My sheep wandered over all the mountains and on every high hill. They were scattered over the whole earth, and no one searched or looked for them.  7 "Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the Lord: 8 As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, because my flock lacks a shepherd and so has been plundered and has become food for all the wild animals, and because my shepherds did not search for my flock but cared for themselves rather than for my flock, 9 therefore, O shepherds, hear the word of the Lord: 10 This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am against the shepherds and will hold them accountable for my flock. I will remove them from tending the flock so that the shepherds can no longer feed themselves. I will rescue my flock from their mouths, and it will no longer be food for them.  11 "For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. 12 As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so I will look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. 13 I will bring them out from the nations and gather them from the countries, and I will bring them into their own land. I will pasture them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines and in all the settlements in the land. 14 I will tend them in a good pasture, and the mountain heights of Israel will be their grazing land. There they will lie down in good grazing land, and there they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. 15 I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign Lord. 16 I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.  17 "As for you, my flock, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will judge between one sheep and another, and between rams and goats. 18 Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? 19 Must my flock feed on what you have trampled and drink what you have muddied with your feet?  20 " Therefore, this is what the Sovereign Lord says to them: See, I myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep. 21 Because you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak sheep with your horns until you have driven them away, 22 I will save my flock, and they will no longer be plundered. I will judge between one sheep and another. 23 I will place over them one shepherd, my servant David (type of Christ), and he will tend them; he will tend them and be their shepherd. 24 I the Lord will be their God, and my servant David will be prince among them. I the Lord have spoken.  25 "I will make a covenant of peace with them and rid the land of wild beasts so that they may live in the desert and sleep in the forests in safety. 26 I will bless them and the places surrounding my hill.  I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing. 27 The trees of the field will yield their fruit and the ground will yield its crops; the people will be secure in their land. They will know that I am the Lord, when I break the bars of their yoke and rescue them from the hands of those who enslaved them. 28 They will no longer be plundered by the nations, nor will wild animals devour them. They will live in safety, and no one will make them afraid. 29 I will provide for them a land renowned for its crops, and they will no longer be victims of famine in the land or bear the scorn of the nations. 30 Then they will know that I, the Lord their God am with them and that they, the house of Israel, are my people, declares the Sovereign Lord. 31 You my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, are people, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign Lord.' "

John 10

1Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that enters not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.  2But he that enters in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.

3To him the porter opens; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out.  4And when he puts forth his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.  5And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.  6This parable Jesus spoke unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spoke unto them.  7Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.  8All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.  9I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.  10The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and have it more abundantly.  11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.  12But he that is hired, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep, and escapes: and the wolf catches them, and scatters the sheep.  13The hired hand escapes, because he is hired, and cares not for the sheep.  14I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.  15As the Father knows me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.  16And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: I must bring them also, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.  27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:  28And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man snatch them out of my hand.  29My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to snatch them out of my Father's hand.

The leaders (modeled Disciples of Christ) of the church were mandated by Jesus to feed and to prepare His children to receive the Holy Spirit’s empowerment in order to adequately perform the mission He has called them to fulfill (Mathew: 10; 28:19; Acts 6: 1-6). Jesus did not command us to build Him temples or magnificent houses of praise and worship, but to change lives by the preaching of the full gospel. By all means we need a place to assemble. Our bodies are the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; Romans 12: 1-2). Discipleship is not limited to the four walls of a building, but beyond. We must make new disciples and also teach and encourage them to do the same. He never did set up the pastor or bishop as the leader (dictator/ruler) of His church, but a group of apostles, elders, deacons, etc, working together (examples) as one under the direction of the Holy Spirit; Many hands - one mission. Most of these ministries are no longer utilized in the church today.

        1 Corinthians 12:28;

“And God had setup some in the church: first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, and after that miracle workers, then those with gifts of healing, helpers, administrators, and those with diversity of tongues”.

        Proverbs 6: 6-8;

“Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, 7 which, having no captain, Overseer or ruler, 8 provides her supplies in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest”.

A colony of ants would usually work together to accomplish a common goal even though they have no leader (ruler). Each of them was created to perform specific duties which they carry out without fail. Our mission is already written; our gifts and abilities were already given, and our goal was set by Jesus. We must work together to fulfill His mission.

The issue is not about who has the leading role in the ministry on this earth, but who is walking in obedience to His will.

Ephesians 1:3-5

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will.

Luke 9: 46-48

46 Then a dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest. 47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a little child and set him by Him, 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great.”

No one was given the leadership role because Christ is our leader and He left the Holy Spirit in charge. Spiritual gifts were divided among all of the disciples for specific reasons, not to be superior over the other (all by the same spirit) but to work together collaboratively with a common purpose and mission. In Ephesians 4:10-12, Paul said;

10He who descended is the same who has ascended up far above all heavens, that He might complete all things.  11And He anointed some to be apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the perfecting of the saints, the work of the ministry, and the edifying of the body of Christ, 13until we all come into the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect disciple, and the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;  14that we will no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine by the sleight of men and their cunning and craftiness, as they lie in wait to deceive.

Jesus, with much concern questioned and directed Simon Peter in John 21:15-17 and said;

15 "Simon son of Jonah, do you really love me more than these?"  "Yes, Lord," he answered, "you know that I love you."    Jesus replied, "Feed my lambs."

16 And again Jesus said, "Simon son of Jonah, do you really love me?"   He replied, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."   Jesus said, "Feed my sheep."

17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"   Peter was upset because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Again Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.  (Note: Not lead)

As a coach prepares his team to compete, he helps to bring out the best in them. A team is made up of different positions working together to win; no one greater than the other. In the secular world, coaches play an essential part in developing high performance teams. They are not team leaders or meeting facilitators, they are experienced team builders and consultants who intervene only when teams become discouraged, stifled, or lost. They also teach essential elements of high performance team building, establish the initial team agenda, and help to develop the team charter. Coaches help the teams to establish team rules and organization. They lead team building exercises and are present during team meetings to encourage high performance team behavior.

Success means getting what is more obviously important, as well as removing barriers to a team’s effectiveness once and for all. A coach confronts old management and belief systems which may exist behind the scenes, and impacts the quality and productivity of the team.

Coaching works with the entire person; addressing needs, values, priorities, and building a solid foundation from which to increase one’s potential and thus increase team performance.

There are some noticeable outcomes we could expect from high-performance teams:

        They develop a sense of shared vision and goals as they pursue their vision

        The team is preserved for a longer period of time

        Team members learn how to collaborate in order to be successful in reaching stated goals.

        There is a visible connection between every team member's work and the organization's vision and mission.

        Motivation levels are elevated

        High productivity is evident.

        The team’s performance moves forward to the next level

        Individual team members develop leadership skills

        There is a clearer sense of trust and respect among team members

        Developing realistic ways to maximize on creative skills drawn from their differences, thus creating maximum team effect

        Develop a method of minimizing internal and external conflicts.

Jesus was an example of a perfect coach as He worked with His disciples to perfect their skills as “fishers of men”. (Matthew 4:19; Jesus said unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men). Most of the disciples were literally fishermen.  Jesus worked beside them (He being the example) until they reached a high level of performance. In Matthew chapter 10, He was able to call them together, empowered them, and to send them to do what they were called and trained to do. After training them and noting how successful they were, He then called them friends, which meant that they clearly understood His mission, and were ready to work together with Him as a team, on the same page (John 13:15; 15:15). Jesus was pleased that the training he gave His disciples brought them up to His level, and that they could stand on their own with His anointing. He fulfilled a major part of His mission, that is, to “make disciples of them”. Nothing pleases a teacher more than witnessing a student put into action everything he/she had taught that student. There is a sense of fulfillment to know that all of the objectives have been mastered, and that student could now assume the role of a teacher. After graduating from engineering school, a person should be able to function as an engineer on his job. Therefore, sitting under any religious leader for many years and not being able to perform anything pertaining to the will of God would be fruitless and a waste of precious time, energy and money.

Matthew 10

1 And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease. 2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Cananite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. 5 These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans. 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.

Mark 16:15

And he said unto them, Go into the entire world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

John 15: 14, 15

14 You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.

This I believe should be the role and goal of today’s church leadership teams. This is what Jesus asked us to do as disciples. Disciples are not fed the Word just to sit and be fattened. They need nourishment, strength and motivation to work, putting their God-given skills (not pastor given) into action. Jesus our leader commanded Peter three times in succession to feed His sheep, not to lead (control) them. The original use of the word ‘pastor’ was not found in the Hebrew Bible. The word shepherd was used. The word pastor comes from the Greek word "poimen" meaning shepherd or from pasco, pastum, which means to feed. The Hebrew word for shepherd is רעה (raʿah) which was used 173 times and can describe the feeding of sheep as in Genesis 29:7 or the spiritual feeding of human beings as in Jeremiah 3:15, "And I will give you shepherds according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding" . Note: The original script did not contain the word pastor, but shepherd. Many bible translations do not include the use the word pastor, but shepherd. In the Old Testament, the leaders of God’s flock were called shepherds. In Deuteronomy 18: 15-19, God announced the coming of Jesus as the only credible spokesman for Him. In Ezekiel 34: 23, God declared that He was going to separate the shepherds of that time, from His sheep and send them one shepherd, His son Jesus Christ. In Matthew 17: 4-6, God affirmed that Jesus was the only one that He has chosen to speak to His flock. And in Matthew 23:8-10 and John 10: 1-16, Jesus established Himself as the only Shepherd of God’s flock. God ended the period of the shepherds/pastors when Jesus came. In Ephesians 4:11, the word pastor may have been added because some translations do not mention it and if God said that Jesus is the only shepherd, how can God make some of his people shepherds. God will not contradict Himself. A shepherd feeds, and to spiritually feed is to teach. Therefore, in some translations, to use the word pastor/shepherd as in Ephesians 4:11(and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers), would be repetitive. This finding takes us back to the first mention of the spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12:27-31 in which the name pastor was not mentioned. In my research I also noticed that the titles “bishop” and “deacon” were not included in some translations. They have used “overseer” and “servant” respectively. I believe that is why some ministries are careful to label their “pastor” as the leading elder, or everyone in the church body as brother or sister “x”. (Read Matthew 23:8-12) The words “elders” and “teachers”, and their correct usage, are consistent throughout the Bible. (e.g.: Exodus 3:16; Psalm 119:99; 1Timothy 5:17; James 5:14; 1 Peter 2:1; Revelations 19:4, and in between these scriptures)

1 Corinthians 12:27-31 (Read the entire chapter, and also Chapter 14)

27 Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28 And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? 31 But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.

We can safely conclude that the position of a pastor is truthfully a teacher and not the head of any church. Pastors and other ministers should not be known as cattle drivers. A pastor is a disciple who is anointed to feed/teach other disciples with the word of God. There is also no indication that any gift had pre-eminence over the others. Jesus had to clarify the meanings of leadership and servant-hood when His disciples were fighting among themselves to prove who the superior disciple was. Our system of leadership is opposite to the system of leadership of the world. How can a servant be the head and in some cases, is literally the millionaire in the ministry, while many other disciples struggle to survive in these times? (Acts 4: 31-37)

Luke 22: 24-27

24 Now there was also a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest. 25 And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles (ungodly) exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ 26 But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. 27 For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves.

Jesus is the only shepherd of the sheep and He will lead us. He never assigned anyone else to a position of Shepherd or under-shepherd. God established this fact. He left twelve apostles along with many other disciples to work together to continue His mission on this earth. He also notified His disciples that He will send the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us after His departure (John 14; 16:5-15). We must be able to recognize His voice. The reason Jesus expressed concern about Peter’s love for Him is because “if we love Jesus, we will faithfully obey His specific commands”. (John 14:15)

The human/leader control image we have today in the church is the same problem God had with His people in the book of Samuel, when they preferred a human-leader image, and rejected Him as their leader (1 Samuel chapters 8 to 15:11; Ezekiel 34). It grieved God and caused Him to reluctantly select a human leader (King Saul) for them. Prior to that situation, in Judges 8: 22-23, the children of Israel asked Gideon to rule over them because of his infamous victory over the Midianites. There was no king in Israel because God was known to be their king and had set up judges to maintain order among His people. Gideon refused to disrupt God’s order of leadership. He rejected their request and told them that God was their leader. After Gideon’s death, we read in Judges Chapter 9 that Abimelech killed his 70 brothers in order to deceitfully become the king of Israel, and to take over God’s authority. Abimelech’s conspiracy demonstrated how power-grabbing and pride could cause disrespect, corruption and heartache. He later lost his life disgracefully and God’s rule was restored. God first ruled, and then He allowed imperfect men who failed. It is very clear that only a member of the God-head is worthy to rule God’s people. God could not find any human to meet His requirements of leadership for His people. Today, He has established His son Jesus as the only qualified one (Revelations 5:1-5), and in His absence sent the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us until Jesus returns. That is why Paul said in Ephesians 4:30; “grieve not the holy Spirit of God, by which you are sealed unto the day of redemption.”  It seems as though Christians today prefer to receive a watered-down version of what Christ said than the actual teaching of Christ Himself. I am not expressing these concerns to create intentional division or internal rebellion within the church body, or to cause anyone to leave his church or denomination, or to change the name of a ministry. I hereby issue a challenge to educate, empower and motivate the saints of God to fulfill His will wherever they are planted. This structure, if taken seriously will prevent church-splits, exploitation, and sheep-stealing. A blocked vent could cause a furnace to explode or extinguish. A blocked plumbing could create uncomfortable situations in a building.

Jeremiah 20:9

9 Then I said, “I will not make mention of Him, Nor speak anymore in His name.” But His word was in my heart like a burning fire Shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, And I could not.

A disciple needs to vent what he has learned and prepared for. A disciple should be able to speak the truth with direct reference from the word of God and not quote someone else. I cannot take credit for the words that God has already spoken.

As a “pastor” myself, I would much rather use appropriate descriptive names as coach, overseer, coordinator, superintendent, facilitator, brother, director, organizer, chairperson or president of a ministry, aware of the fact that we all are disciples working together with shared responsibilities. I see myself as a coordinator among many other coordinators in a team, all having different anointed abilities, but working together to fulfill the vision Christ laid out for His church. Along with that, I am also an anointed musician.

Ephesians 4:15-17

15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

2 Timothy 4:2-4

2“Preach the word; be instant in and out of season; reprove, rebuke and exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. 3“For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they gather to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4“And they shall turn away their ears from the truth (Jesus), and shall be turned unto lies”.

Ezekiel 22: 1…

…23And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,  24Son of man, say unto her, Thou art the land that is not cleansed, nor rained upon in the day of indignation.  25There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof.  26Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned my holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they showed difference between the unclean and the clean, and have hid their eyes from my Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them.  27Her princes in the middle thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain.  28And her prophets have splattered them with intemperate mortar, seeing vanity, and divining lies unto them, saying, Thus said the Lord God, when the Lord has not spoken.  29The people of the land have used oppression, and exercised robbery, and have vexed the poor and needy: yea, they have oppressed the stranger wrongfully.  30And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.  31Therefore have I poured out mine indignation upon them; I have consumed them with the fire of my wrath: their own way have I recompensed upon their heads, said the Lord God.

Disciples must stay focused on who they are and also remember what their God-given bible-declared mission is in this world. We should not be striving to control, baby-sit, divide, incapacitate, or capitalize on God’s people, but to nurture them to become disciples like us so that they too could spread the gospel and make other disciples. Therefore, in our quest to become better and more efficient disciples, we should not think that God has called us to an ‘elevated’ position of today’s view of pastors, bishops or religious leaders. It seems like everyone who senses the call of God in their lives automatically believes that they are suppose to attend biblical college and lead a congregation. He has called us all to do what we can with what we have, along with His anointing, to win the lost and make them disciples so that they could do the same for others, and it does not have to be in a special building.

Some church groups are structured the way the New Testament church originally started, with twelve leading Apostles and Elders working together as a unit, but failed to secure the sound doctrine of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They have allowed their own human reasoning and interpretations to override the voice and authority of the Holy Spirit. God wants us to be structurally correct and doctrinally sound.

Carpenters, painters, plumbers, electricians and interior designers of a building project will sit idly (disciples in the pews) unless the foundation of the building is complete and inspected. If these gifted builders cannot utilize their abilities, there would be no work and no building for anyone to dwell in.

No one could survive on milk alone. We all need meats, greens, vegetables, fruits, etc, and maybe some multivitamins and supplements, along with daily activities. Jesus is the only one that has everything we need (Ephesians chap 1). No human has the capacity and capability to meet all our needs.

Hebrews 5:12-14

12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. 13 For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. 14 But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Ephesians 4: 11-16

11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors (which may have been added by theologians) and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

The Old King James version of the bible states in Ephesians 4:11, “And He Himself gave some to be apostles…” which really meant that He equipped some to be apostles, evangelist, etc.… Many denominations interpret it as if God had placed the apostle, bishop, pastor, etc; in charge of the local assemble. This scripture really means that God has equipped us all, each of us having at least one of these gifts.

Ephesians 4:7-8

7But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

8Wherefore he said, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

Romans 15:13-14

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. 14 I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.

1 Corinthians 12:1, 4

1Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.

4Now there are a variety of gifts, but from the same Spirit.

Acts 15:22

Then it pleased the apostles and elders with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas and Silas, chief men among the brethren.

Proverbs 11:14

Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.

Jesus left no one person in charge but a group or board-like structure of disciples as examples to expedite His mission, under the direction of the Holy Spirit. There was no single head-person in charge (pastor/bishop, armor-bearer and the prophet as his side-kick (2 Chronicles 18)), and no one person had most or all of the anointing and gifts. Ministry is not about the church leaders’ vision for the church, but the pre-ordained and mandated mission of Jesus Christ that must be implemented and expedited by all of His followers (disciples).

John 14:1-31

16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.

Acts 2:1

1And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

Acts 13:2

As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”

Titles that are assigned in the ministry by God in the body of Christ indicate the disciples’ horizontal duties and not vertical positions. (1 Corinthians 12 & 14) No assignment was greater than the other. Therefore, disciples have to collaborate in order to unite and build the church, by reaching the world for Jesus Christ.

Title                                     Meaning and assignment as per context in the word of God

        Leader ………                   Setting an example for others to follow; model (John 14:12; 1 Peter 2:21; 5:3)

        Apostle ………..                 Missionary – a disciple that was sent out to evangelize new areas (Acts chaps.13; 15; 18)

        Bishop …………                Overseer, coordinator, organizer, chairperson, MC; etc (1 Corinthians 14; 1                                                   Peter 5: 1-3)

        Evangelist ……..                Preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 4:5)

        Pastor ………….                Shepherd; Feeder or teacher; with feed from the pasture already provided by God through Christ (Jeremiah 3:15; 23:4). To feed the people of God with His word does not necessarily require a church building, even though it may be more efficient. It could also be done one-on-one by those within the body who have the gifts and abilities to feed. Some ministries use the title “leading elder” instead of “pastor”.

        Teacher ………..                A person who teaches, feeds with knowledge, or instructs, (Romans 15:14)

        Prophet ………..                Person who speaks by divine inspiration, revealing the will of God that was already spoken through Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:21)

        Elder …………..               Seasoned servant (not necessarily by years, but by experience) 1 Timothy 3

        Deacon ………..               An appointed or elected disciple having variously defined duties (1 Timothy 3:13). Some translations used the title, “Levites” or “servants”.

Many of these duties were fulfilled by elders (seasoned ministers; not necessarily old men).

1 Peter 5:1-5

1 The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. 5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

Acts 6:2-4

2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. 3 Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; 4 but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

In Old Testament times, the anointing was selective but in this period of the church age, it is freely and equally given to all believers.

Read all of Numbers 11

16 So the Lord said to Moses: “Gather to Me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them; bring them to the tabernacle of meeting, that they may stand there with you. 17 Then I will come down and talk with you there. I will take of the Spirit that is upon you and will put the same upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with you, that you may not bear it yourself alone…..

24 So Moses went out and told the people the words of the Lord, and he gathered the seventy men of the elders of the people and placed them around the tabernacle. 25 Then the Lord came down in the cloud, and spoke to him, and took of the Spirit that was upon him, and placed the same upon the seventy elders; and it happened, when the Spirit rested upon them, that they prophesied, although they never did so again. 26 But two men had remained in the camp: the name of one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad. And the Spirit rested upon them. Now they were among those listed, but who had not gone out to the tabernacle; yet they prophesied in the camp. 27 And a young man ran and told Moses, and said, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.” 28 So Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, one of his choice men, answered and said, “Moses my lord, forbid them!” 29 Then Moses said to him, “Are you zealous for my sake? Oh, that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put His Spirit upon them!” 30 And Moses returned to the camp, he and the elders of Israel.

The outpouring and anointing of God’s Holy Spirit today, is for all who believe. He never said that we would have to build up our emotions during praise and worship service to usher in the presence of the Holy Spirit. He said that His Spirit will never leave us nor forsake us. He will always be with us and in us, unto the end. Disciples should never forget that promise. Many Christians seem to limit the manifestation of the Holy Ghost to unknown tongues, a dance, a bass run, special organ chords and drum beats, a prophetic word, loud speaking, “whooping”, or “falling out in the spirit”. The Holy Ghost was given to assist us in performing the will of God by giving us the boldness we need to preach the gospel to all nations; and to perform miracles, healings, signs and wonders (Acts 1:8; 4: 29-31). The Holy Spirit is not like a cobra snake in a basket in front of the congregation, waiting on our actions like snake charmers, while we play and sing special music in order to make Him rise out of the basket and perform for us.

Joel 2:27-29

28And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:  29And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.

Matthew 10:1

And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.

Mark 16:17-18

17 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Romans 8:11

But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwells in you.

John 14:16

And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever.

Acts 1:8

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Acts 4: 29-31 (Read the whole chapter)

29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly (without fear).

Another reason that Christ structured His church this way is to prevent deviation from His word. Most leaders believe that everything that comes out of their mouths especially when they are preaching after coming out of a season of fasting, comes from God; and dare anyone to question them. Coming fresh out of a fast does not always mean that a person has heard from God or will hear from Him first. The first encounter Jesus had after fasting for forty days and forty nights was with the devil (Matthew 4:1-4). His structure of His church encourages collaboration among Christians to perform His will with oneness of heart, mind, spirit and goal.

1 Corinthians 14:26-33

26 How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, and has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. 28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. 30 But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.

Proverbs 11:14

Where no counsel (guidance) is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors (leaders/guides) there is safety.

Disciples of Christ do not desire a passion for positions of authority and wealth; they possess a passion for lost souls and the restoration of backslidden Christians. (Proverbs 11:30 …… he who wins souls is wise)

Notes

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Love is The Motivation for Discipleship.

There is a circle of love that Christ pointed to in John 14 and that is, if we love people, we would love Jesus; and if we love Jesus, we would love God and His people (all Christians). Therefore, if we love people, that is an indication that we love God and Jesus. (John 14: 15-24; 13:34) Quote; “Anyone who obeys my commandments and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves (values) me will be loved (appreciated) by my Father, and I, too, will love (cherish) him and reveal myself to him."

In the epistle of John, this principle was further explained to us. In the first epistle of John 5:1-3 it states;

1 John 5:1-3

1“If a person believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and loves (respects) the father, will love (respect) his children as well. 2 This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and obeying his commands. 3 This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not oppressive.”

John 13:34-35

34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

After reading the above scripture, it is safe to conclude that the commands of Jesus Christ require obedience to Him and respect for God, fellow Christians and other people. Additional supporting scriptures include John 13:34; John 21: 17, and Mark 12: 28-34; & 16:15. Following Jesus actually means that a disciple will have to give up anything and everything that could hinder his ability to work effectively for Christ (Luke 14:26). Love is sacrificial and wants the best for everybody. To love is not necessarily to be nice because anyone could pretend to be nice.

Bigotry and social separation could never survive in the presence of true discipleship. It is ironic that the world is making more of an effort towards cultural awareness, tolerance and racial harmony than the Church. John 13: 34-35 states; "A new commandment I give you, that you love one another as I have loved you. 35By this love all men will know that you are my disciples.” True Disciples of Christ (Christians) are known to follow and obey Jesus their leader. As Christians, we are commanded to love each other despite perceived or learned differences. Love also manifests itself in fellowship. Agape love, which is so often spoke of, was originally a love feast which started among the disciples in accordance with the Lord’s Supper. It then became popular as a grand feast that was open to people of all walks of life, origin, race, culture and socio-economic standing. Acts 2:46 tells us: “They continued daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart.” From the least to the greatest were fellowshipping with each other.

Acts 4:32

“And all of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither did anyone declare his possessions as his own; but they had all things common.”

It is unfortunate that we as the Disciples of Christ are separated by denomination, race, politics and social class and yet we all claim to be filled with the same Holy Spirit. The truth is that the Holy Spirit cannot deny Himself.

        “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are God's children.” (Romans 8:16)

        2 Timothy 2:13 states; “If we believe not, He still stays faithful: He cannot deny himself.”

An effective and honest discipleship program should stress the importance of the unity of the body as the catalyst for the releasing of the power of God in and through our lives.

1John 1:7 states; “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we will have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin.”

Lateral communication among God’s people is also vitally important for the growth and development of any ministry. Many organizations offer growth and development seminars and workshops to improve systems thinking, new leadership skills, teamwork, partnership, and system dynamics to move their companies forward. Companies dismiss employees who are not team players. These employees could be obstacles to progress.

Paul said in 1 Corinthians 1:10;“Now I plead with you my brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”

To show the importance of lateral communication, love, and unity, chapter 3:16 in the book of Malachi it states;

“Then those who feared the Lord spoke to each other, and it caught the  Lord’s attention               and He heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who feared the Lord and lifted up His name.”

Jesus also taught us to love our enemies and our neighbors as we love our selves. This means, that what ever we desire for ourselves, we must also desire for our neighbors, and salvation is the most important need. If Jesus could accept and change Saul (religious extremist who murdered Christians; Acts 8: 1-3) to Paul (apostle, Acts 9: 1-31) then He could accept and change someone like Bin Laden. Barabbas had to be set free because Christ took His place (Matthew 27: 15- 26). Remember also, that whatever God desires for you, He desires for your enemies. Therefore, if we wish our enemies to be destroyed, then we are trying to disrupt the purpose of His mission, the same mission we are commanded to fulfill. We would be fighting against God like Paul did, before his conversion, when his name then was Saul. Jesus commanded us to love our enemies. He did not come to condemn the world, but to save it, and we are the ones to reach them. Jesus sent us to influence people to convert to Christianity. These include the Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Bahá'í World Faith adherents, Satanists, Atheists, thugs, murderers, abortionists, hate groups, prostitutes, homosexuals, gangsters, etc, and people of many other religions. We intend reach them by extending the love (God’s special value system) of God to them through us with the hope of converting them to Christianity. In many cases we have to befriend them in order to influence them for greater is He that is in us than He that is in the world. God saw this value in Saul even before he was converted to Paul.

Luke 9:55-56

55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” And they went to another village.

A good disciple will be concerned about the outcomes of his assignment, the reason for his motivation, and the feedback from his leader. We all at times desire to receive appreciation and honor for our services, especially when they are recognized as from the heart and love driven. (1Timothy 5:17; “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching”). Jesus knows our hearts and motives for service whether it is for His glory or our own selfish ambitions. According to the Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians chapter 13, anything we do for God that is not motivated by love, will not be counted.

1 Corinthians 13

1 “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but do not exhibit love (compassion), I am only an echoing gong or a clanging cymbal. 2If I have the gift of prophecy and can figure out all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not show love, I am worthless. 3If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing...”

Matthew 7:21-23.

21 “Not every one that says unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that does the will of my Father which is in heaven”. 22 “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in your name and cast out devils, and in your name done many wonderful works?” 23 “And then will I say to them, I never knew you: depart from me you that work iniquity”.

Additional scripture reading include Matthew 25: 14- 46. Please read the entire chapter for the full meaning.

Jesus was not addressing the unsaved, but His servants. He would not command us to do something He had not done Himself. He set the example for us to follow. If we understand love we would understand the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Luke 10:26-28

26 He said to him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?” 27 So he answered and said, “you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’28 And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.”

Romans 5:7-9

7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.

John 3:16

For God so loved (valued) the world (His treasured creation that sinned) that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever (sinners) believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

2 Cor. 4:7

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels that the excellence of the power may be of God, and not of us.

Cultural Awareness and Diversity: An Expression of Love and Acceptance

Many secular businesses and organizations are introducing cultural awareness and diversity training to their workforce. They have realized that it is important for their employees to understand how these dimensions affect performance, motivation, production, market response, success, and interactions with others. The goal of many businesses and organizations is to expand their customer base globally. The expression of diversity includes acceptance and respect and the desire to appeal to other cultures. This means, understanding that each individual is unique, but will realize that our similarities outweigh our individual differences.  These differences and similarities could fit the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies.  Cultural diversity and awareness exercise is the exploration of these differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity contained within each individual. Diversity encompasses, but is not limited to age, ethnicity, culture, religion, ancestry, gender, physical limitations, race, educational background, work experience, geographic location, income, social status, marital status, religious beliefs, parental status and military experience. Institutional structures and practices that have presented barriers to some dimensions of diversity should be examined, challenged, and removed.

Many Christians believe that by praying for the salvation of their family, relatives, and close friends that God would eventually save them, but with the same breadth, pray for the destruction of their enemies and also ignore those they do not know. God so loved (valued) the world that He sent Jesus to die for us all, including our enemies and strangers.

The fact that Jesus sent us to the entire world, denotes a need for us to exercise cultural awareness.  We are all missionaries in our own way. God also made allowances for it, and so did Jesus and Paul. He is not asking us to participate in wrong-doing or condemn people who are not like us, but to win them through love. We must befriend them in order to win them. It may require eating and wearing “strange foods and clothing” (God created everything). Our ultimate desire should be to somehow influence their thinking to accept the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

It is time for churches to aggressively address this issue. Love is the foundation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Exodus 12:47-49

47 All the congregation of Israel shall keep it. 48 And when a stranger dwells with you and wants to keep the Passover to the LORD, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and keep it; and he shall be as a native of the land. For no uncircumcised person shall eat it. 49 One law shall be for the native-born and for the stranger who dwells among you.

Exodus 23:9

“Also you shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the heart of a stranger, because you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”

Exodus 22:21

“You shall neither mistreat a stranger nor oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”

Mark 16:15

And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.

Read Luke 10:25-37

27 So he answered and said, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”

1 Corinthians 9:19-20

Serving All Men

19 For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; 20 and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; 21 to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law.

1 Corinthians 10:27

If some unbeliever invites you to a meal and you want to go, eat whatever is put before you without raising questions of conscience.

Luke 15: 1-7

The Parable of the Lost Sheep

1 Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.” 3 So He spoke this parable to them, saying: 4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ 7 I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.

We are here to show sinners and members of all other religions of this world that Jesus Christ is the only answer, and that we will demonstrate this truth by our love for all mankind. There is no other option.

Finally,

Love Your Neighbor

Romans 13:8-14

8 Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. 9 For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

Put on Christ (humility)

11 And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. 13 Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.

God wants all of His children to be in unity with Him. Lucifer (Satan) tried to divide heaven but God kicked him out. God maintained unity in heaven and desires the same in His kingdom here on earth among His children.

Isaiah 14:11-14

11Your pomp is brought down to the grave, and the noise of your viols: the worm is spread under you, and the worms cover you.  12How art you fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How art you cut down to the ground, which did weaken the nations!  13For you had said in your heart; “I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:  14I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High”.

Matthew 6:

9 In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

According to biblical teachings, your neighbor is someone that does not look like you, talk you, live like you, or think like you do. In His discourse of the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10: 25-37), Jesus established that your neighbor could be someone of a different culture. In the Old Testament, the word stranger was mostly used. Therefore, to love your neighbor as yourself means that whatever you desire for yourself, you also desire for your neighbor.

Notes

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Important facts to consider about Discipleship

Discipleship does not require formal religious education, neither is it a study of how to practice religious rituals. Many people believe that the Christian with the most or highest ministry degrees, and perfect church attendance, is closer to God and has more knowledge of Him. It is good to know about Jesus but it is better to know Him personally and obey Him. The disciples of old depended on the Holy Spirit to appoint, teach, lead, empower, and protect them. Men like Sadhu Sundar Singh, Bro Vargas of India, and many others, started many churches with limited knowledge of the scriptures, along with their testimonies and a passion for souls, winning thousands to Christ. Do not forget the uneducated parents and grandparents of old who stood strong with prayer, unwavering faith, and courage because they knew God in a personal way.  They were the spiritual pillars of many homes.

Whether we are rich or poor, uneducated or educated, God is looking for a people with a humble spirit who will trust in Him and not their status or accomplishments. He is looking for a people who are not intimidated by their inadequacies.

Acts 4:13

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

1 Corinthians 1:26-28

26 For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. 27 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; 28 and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are.

Matthew 18:3-5

3 and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 11:25-26

25 At that time Jesus answered and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes. 26 Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.

There are many other Christians in the USA and across the world who have had the same experiences that God is no respecter of persons, and is the same yesterday, today and forever. The well learned High Priests, Pharisees, Scribes and Sadducees were not useful to Christ but they, because of pride, jealousy and insecurity, conspired to His death. The most important factors of discipleship are humility and obedience to the word of God that was spoken through Jesus Christ…the Holy Spirit (John 15: 26; 1 John 5: 6) being the witness. Read this warning Paul gave Timothy in second Timothy chapter 3. (2 Timothy 3:5; …having a form of godliness but denying His authority...). Paul himself was a Pharisee, but after his conversion, gave up his acquired knowledge for the knowledge of Christ. Let’s read what Paul had to say.

Philippians 3:5-9:

5“Having been circumcised on the eighth day, I am of the nation of Israel, from the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews. As far as the law is concerned, I was a Pharisee. 6As for my zeal, I was a persecutor of the church. As far as righteousness in the law is concerned, I was blameless.7But whatever things were assets to me, these I now consider a loss for the sake of the Messiah. 8What is more, I continue to consider all these things as a loss for the sake of the what is far more valuable, knowing the Messiah Jesus, my Lord. It is because of him that I have experienced the loss of all those things. Indeed, I consider them rubbish in order to gain the Messiah 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through the faithfulness of the Messiah, the righteousness that comes from God and that depends on faith.”

2 Corinthians 12: 4-6

“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.”

Disciples are commanded to proclaim the good-news gospel of Jesus Christ to every human being, without partiality. Subsequently, if people believe and receive the gospel, we are then commanded by Jesus to teach (feed) them the Word and make disciples of them. In other words, we will be replicating ourselves as disciples of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18-20).

18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore] and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

Disciples are trained to personally lead the unsaved step by step to salvation, baptism, and then discipleship training. We are goal oriented and desire to bring about change in the lives of the unsaved and the backslidden. Disciples believe that they can accomplish this task by the power of God, the indwelling Holy Spirit, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, prayer and fasting, and a very good lifestyle that exhibits love, compassion and clean living.

For example, just think of a person that is known in a certain community as mean-spirited, unfriendly, unthankful, and unapproachable. If that person decides to invest his life-savings in building a restaurant or any other business in that community without changing his attitude, he would suffer tremendous losses. In order to be a successful businessman, he would have to adjust his attitude, become a people-person, be nonjudgmental, and cater to the needs of his community and its visitors. His perception of people, his demeanor, and his goals, would suddenly change to accommodate his vision. We all experience paradigm shifts in our lifetime.

Another example is that most debt counselors usually offer their clients several solutions for getting out of debt. They share their testimonies of how they were set free from debt by buying into the program they are offering, and how they are presently benefiting tremendously. These thought-provoking presentations are very believable and have convinced many clients to become a part of that program.

Disciples are to sinners as businesses are to customers. They both need to reach, teach and make believers out of people.

The following steps in this study-book will help us to become the disciples God wants us to be, should we consider fulfilling the call to discipleship. As Disciples of Christ, we prepare willing men and women to recognize the voice of their master, Jesus Christ, and to fulfill His mission here on earth through the power of the Holy Spirit.

I hope that after this study, we will be able to view disciples as empowered Christians working together to accomplish a common goal with the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Because of these steps, I was fortunate to be an active part of a great out-pouring of God’s Spirit among the teenagers of my generation in Guyana. Due to the clear presentation and understanding of the gospel, it was not uncommon to see teenagers between the ages of 12 and 19, standing strong, preaching the gospel, organizing bible clubs in their schools, and at some instances, being thrown out of their home because of the religious or non-religious beliefs of their families. We did not rely solely on church leaders for guidance (they believed that children should be seen and not heard), but the word of God and the Holy Spirit. We only approached them when we needed advice from the ones that were experienced in the matters we pursued. Most of us today are still burning with the same desire to follow God and to share His word. We believed that if God used teenagers like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Jeremiah, David, and Joseph, He could also use us. We realized that we all have to give an account of ourselves before God (Romans 14:12) and will not be able shift the blame on the Christian leaders. They have to answer to God for themselves, especially because they take on more responsibilities than they should.

Christians cannot be obedient to God unless they know of what He approves as well as what he does not approve.

James 3:1

“My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.”

Notes

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Section Two

Steps to Discipleship (The Making of Disciples)

Step 1:

To be a Christian disciple a person must first know the meanings of the words disciple and Christian.

By definition, a disciple is a follower; one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another.

The word disciple was derived from the word discipline, which means to submit or discipline one’s self to the control of a different set of standard rules and regulations. In other words, a person must reject his personal beliefs and accept another. In order to further clarify the word ‘disciple’, in Matthew 9: 14 (Then John's disciples came and asked him, "How is it that we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?") the writer talked about John’s disciples. These followers heard the word of God from John the Baptist. They believed it and followed John. They were called John’s disciples. John then had to redirect them to follow Christ.

The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch. (Acts 11:26) They were called Disciples of Christ before they were called Christians. The word “Christian” was derived from the name “Christ” as the word “American” was derived from the word America. The name “Christian” qualifies what flock and leader we belong to, or follow. It tells the world and other religions who we belong to and what we believe. To be a Christian disciple means to act like Christ; think like Christ, walk and talk like Him, and do what He did. When people look at us, they should see Christ in us. We all have heard that saying; “he’s the splitting image of his father”. Remember, in the beginning, God created man in His own image and likeness. Christ came to this earth to restore that image. Attending church regularly, wearing a white collar and being involved in Christian-like activities or even dressing in a religious robe does not indicate that a person is a Christian. Those outward actions could indicate that a person is religious like in many other religious groups. A religious pendant or decal will not verify that we are Christians, but our lifestyles will speak volumes of who we really are.

A person cannot be a Christian if he/she is not a disciple of Christ because the name “Christian” denotes a “Christ-follower”.

Acts 4:13

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

Matthew 26:71

And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.

1 Corinthians 2:16

For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Colossians 2:5-6

5 “For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. 6 as you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him”

John 14:12

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He who believes on me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go unto my Father.

Therefore, a Christian disciple is a person who accepts, follows, and assists in the dispersing of the good news and doctrine of Jesus Christ, and not of Moses, Elijah, a denomination, or even Paul. I am not in any way diminishing the work of the prophets and apostles. I am establishing the deity and authority of Christ. We can better understand the bible if we place Christ in His rightful position because His word is final. They all spoke of Him. (Deuteronomy 18:15-19; Ezekiel 34; Isaiah 53:2-7)

        John 5:31-47

36“But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.”

        John 3: 27-30

27 “John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.

John was the last prophet according to Matthew 11:13. John had to decrease as well as Abraham, Moses, Elijah, etc. Christ must increase. God chose Jesus as the final and only spokesperson to represent Him.

        Matthew 3:11-17

11And John said; “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but He that comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

12Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire”. 13Then came Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. 14But John refused him, saying, I need to be baptized by you, and you come to me? 15And Jesus answering said unto him; let it to be so now: for therefore it becomes us to fulfill all righteousness. Then he suffered him. 16And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

The unwavering commitment to a Christian denomination (Baptist, Pentecostal, Catholic, etc) does not make a person a Christian in the eyes of God; it is the combination of our obedience to God through Jesus Christ and our love for all people. Horizontal actions will prove our vertical connections. The name of our denomination, bishop, pastor or priest will not secure us a place in heaven; only those who do the will of God through Christ.

We could conclude that a Christian disciple is a person who rejects his personal beliefs, submits himself under the lordship and belief in the Lord Jesus Christ, and literally practices the teachings of Jesus Christ. Thus, Christianity is a lot more than a quotation of religious metaphors and verses, chants, cantatas, Christian entertainment, skilled speeches, drama, or poems. It is not equal to, or limited to drama, theatrics, emotional hype, or sensationalism, but a lifestyle that we practice daily, demonstrating to the world that we belong to Christ.

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Step 2:

To be a disciple or follower, a person must be able to identify his leader or master.

Most people fashion their lives after famous people such as politicians, entertainers, religious leaders, athletes, medical or business professionals. That is commendable, but unfortunately, they are all humans and are subject to failure, sickness, death, and to making mistakes. Many of these role models have disappointed millions and have led many people astray. Some people are lead by greed, lies, fear, money, power, drugs, alcohol, various organizations, gangs or other ulterior motives. A soldier in the armed forces knows with certainty, who is his commanding officer. An athlete could tell us with confidence, the name and character of his coach. As Christian disciples we should know who Jesus is. John 10: 14 and 27 Jesus said; “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and they know me; My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” A disciple cannot afford to be led astray by strange doctrines (Hebrews 13: 9)

2Timothy 4:3-7 states;

3“For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine; but after their own desires shall stack up  to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall reject the truth, and shall turn to fables. 5 but, carefully observe all things, endure afflictions, and do the work of an evangelist, making full proof of your ministry.”  6For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,  7Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

As Christian disciples, our leader is Jesus Christ. John chapter 1 and John 3:16-17 declared Jesus as the “One” sent by God. Ezekiel 34:23 and John chapter 10 describes Him as the only good and true Shepherd of the sheep. In Acts 5: 31, He is our Savior. Hebrews chapter 2 explains His humility as a servant and His exaltation as the High Priest. In Revelation 19:16, He is depicted as the King of kings and Lord of lords. Regardless of our allegiance, there is one known common fact, that is, we must identify our leader in order to be acquainted with our mission. In Matthew 15: 13 & 14, Jesus addressed the hypocrisy of the then religious leaders. Jesus said;

        13 “Every plant, my heavenly Father did not plant (leading positions established by men), shall be rooted up. 14 Leave them alone: they are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, they both shall fall into the ditch.”

It is advisable to take note that Jesus did not say those that were misled would be excused, but rather, both will perish. Matthew 17:1-6; signifies the selection of our leader by God Himself. Jesus made it clear to His disciples about who they should follow and listen to. Not every name mentioned in the bible is to be honored above or equal to that of Jesus Christ. God made this known in Mark 1:11 when He said, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased”.  And in Matthew 17: 5 it states; while he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold, a voice out of the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased; listen to Him!” Not Moses and not Elias. He did not say to listen also to Jesus. God is satisfied with His selection. As Christians, we live by the words of God that were spoken by Jesus Christ, because we will be judged by His words (John 12:48; 14:10).

        Deuteronomy 18: 15, 18, 19 reads;

“For Moses truthfully said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall you hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.”

18 I will raise up for them a Prophet like you from among their brethren, and will put My words in His mouth, and He shall speak to them all that I command Him. 19 And it shall be that whoever will not hear My words, which He speaks in My name, I will require it of him.

        Ezekiel 34:23

I will establish one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them—My servant David (Jesus Christ). He shall feed them and be their shepherd.

        John 10:16

And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.

        Acts 3:20-23

20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:  21Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.  22For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.  23And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.

        John 5:46-47

46 for if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. 47 but if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”

        John 12:48-50

48 He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. 49 For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. 50 And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”

        John 17:6-8

6 “I have manifested Your name to the men whom You have given Me out of the world. They were Yours, You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. 7 Now they have known that all things which You have given Me are from You. 8 For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me.(John 14:10)

Many Christians do not read their bibles often but follow the advice of many misled religious leaders, deceitful politicians and influential media personalities, as if they were sent with a message by God to vigorously oppose the selected governments of the world. In other words, many “Christians” have become disciples of these deceivers. Some of these politicians and influential people claim to be Christians but do not know Jesus Christ. A Disciple of Jesus Christ judges everything by the Words spoken by Jesus Christ Himself. God has given us His Words spoken through Christ for this dispensation period of grace, and we will be accountable to Him. I don’t think that Christian discipleship sits well with politics. Christianity should not be mixed with politics. Oil and water do not mix. We were not sent here to create laws to secure morality but to positively influence moral behavior by sharing the gospel, and also by our conversation and lifestyle. The sinful nature of man can only be cured by the power of God through Jesus Christ, and our duty is to share the gospel of deliverance with them. No law on the land could change the heart of man. Christian disciples cannot fit into this worldly system because we exist to lead everyone to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ without partiality. Every four years we pray and fast that God would give us a good president for each election season, and He does. And even if we do not understand His selection, we have faith to believe that God is still in control. “Everything works together for good to them that love God” (Romans 8:28). If Christians align themselves to a political party, then the opposing parties could build up resentment for all Christians thus giving us a label that could hinder our witness to all mankind. In addition, to the world of non-Christians, Christianity could be mistakenly associated with a ruling party or Country’s policies that may not line up with the teachings of Jesus Christ. This could create a twisted view of Christianity. The truth is that we are in the world but not of this world. It is puzzling to realize that a large number of Christian disciples have been deceived and lured (hook, line and sinker) into the political arena and have ignored the leadership of Jesus Christ.

John 18:36

Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.

Mark 12:17

And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marveled at him.

2 Timothy 2:4

“No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer”.

Luke 16:13

No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

Romans 13:1-7

1 Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. 5 Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.

2 Peter 2:9-11

9 then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment, 10 and especially those who walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise authority. They are presumptuous, self-willed. They are not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries, 11 whereas angels, who are greater in power and might, do not bring a reviling accusation against them before the Lord.

Mark 7:7 - And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.

One other reason why Christian disciples should not actively be involved in politics or come against governing authorities can be explained in Jeremiah 27.  When ever God sets up a government, He does it for a reason to bring Him glory. That leader becomes His servant for that period of time. To go against His choice is to go against His authority and plan; that is rebellion. Let us read that chapter together.

Jeremiah 27

1 In the beginning of the reign of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah, king of Judah, this word came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, 2 “Thus says the LORD to me: ‘Make for yourselves bonds and yokes, and put them on your neck, 3 and send them to the king of Edom, the king of Moab, the king of the Ammonites, the king of Tyre, and the king of Sidon, by the hand of the messengers who come to Jerusalem to Zedekiah king of Judah. 4 And command them to say to their masters, “Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel—thus you shall say to your masters: 5 ‘I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are on the ground, by My great power and by My outstretched arm, and have given it to whom it seemed proper to Me. 6 And now I have given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, My servant; and the beasts of the field I have also given him to serve him. 7 So all nations shall serve him and his son and his son’s son, until the time of his land comes; and then many nations and great kings shall make him serve them. 8 And it shall be, that the nation and kingdom which will not serve Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, and which will not put its neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon, that nation I will punish,’ says the LORD, ‘with the sword, the famine, and the pestilence, until I have consumed them by his hand. 9 Therefore do not listen to your prophets, your diviners, your dreamers, your soothsayers, or your sorcerers, who speak to you, saying, “You shall not serve the king of Babylon.” 10 For they prophesy a lie to you, to remove you far from your land; and I will drive you out, and you will perish. 11 But the nations that bring their necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon and serve him, I will let them remain in their own land,’ says the LORD, ‘and they shall till it and dwell in it.’ 12 I also spoke to Zedekiah king of Judah according to all these words, saying, “Bring your necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him and his people, and live! 13 Why will you die, you and your people, by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence, as the LORD has spoken against the nation that will not serve the king of Babylon? 14 Therefore do not listen to the words of the prophets who speak to you, saying, ‘You shall not serve the king of Babylon,’ for they prophesy a lie to you; 15 for I have not sent them,” says the LORD, “yet they prophesy a lie in My name, that I may drive you out, and that you may perish, you and the prophets who prophesy to you.” 16 Also I spoke to the priests and to all this people, saying, “Thus says the LORD: ‘Do not listen to the words of your prophets who prophesy to you, saying, “Behold, the vessels of the LORD’s house will now shortly be brought back from Babylon”; for they prophesy a lie to you. 17 Do not listen to them; serve the king of Babylon, and live!

It is not a sin to vote or not to vote. If we vote, then we should not vote based on our own selfish beliefs; we should vote in a way that would positively benefit the entire country. Christ died to save the entire world. We have a different agenda, that is, to reach and prepare people for citizenship of Heaven and not a political party. (Philippians 3:20)

Matthew 5:43-48

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? 48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

1 Peter 2:13-17

13Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, 14or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. 16Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.

1 Timothy 2:1-3

1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.

I fully understand that the prophets of the Old Testament were ordained by God to speak His word to His people, but we must also understand that there are times and seasons for everything and everyone. Ecclesiastes 3:1 states; “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:” The season of the law and prophets were until John, (Luke 16:16). God is now speaking to us through His son Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1: 1-3). This is the season of the dispensation of the grace of God expressed through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. During the season of the law, the prophets announced suffering and death as the penalty for disobedience, and destruction for the enemies of God’s people (Leviticus 20; Malachi 3: 8- 10). In this season of the dispensation of grace, Jesus announced salvation and abundant life for everyone including our enemies (Matthew 5: 44; Luke 9:55-57; John 10: 10; Romans 8:2, Galatians 3: 10- 13).

Your mission will also speak volumes as to who your leader really is. Our leader is Jesus Christ. God has His own plans that our finite minds cannot understand unless He reveals them to us. He will remain the Supreme One. As Christian disciples, we should follow and obey His Son Jesus as He has commanded us to do.

Philippians 3:17-21

17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. 18 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.

1 Thessalonians 3:5

For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain.

Notes

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Step 3:

To be a disciple a person must know about his leader.

There is something special about that person you admire the most. The element that created that attraction could be his/her personality, honesty, strength, humility, beauty, charisma, confidence, wisdom or courage… to name a few.  A person most likely chooses a friend or leader that exhibits the much needed qualities he is lacking and wishes to have in his life. There is a period of observation, and confirmation by inquiries. A move is then made to befriend, imitate or to follow that person.

It is therefore imperative for Christian disciples to know about their leader, Jesus Christ. The more we know about Him, the easier it will be for us to believe, receive, and follow Him. We can learn about Jesus by reading the Bible, Christian literature, and personal testimonies from people who know Him and have experienced His touch. (Matthew 11:29; Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls).We can also witness His works in action and assess the amazing results.

His coming and mission were first prophesied in Genesis 3:14-15; The Lord God said to the serpent, "Because of your deception,  you are cursed more than all cattle, and every beast of the field; on your belly you will crawl, and dust you will eat all the days of your life; And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head, and you shall bruise him on the heel.” The woman is Mary and her seed is Jesus. This scripture spoke of the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the defeat of Satan.

In Deuteronomy 18: 15, 18,19, Moses said; “God will raise up unto you a Prophet from among your brethren, like unto me; unto him you shall listen.”  18 I will raise up for them a Prophet like you from among their brethren, and will put My words in His mouth, and He shall speak to them all that I command Him. 19 And it shall be that whoever will not hear My words, which He speaks in My name, I will require it of him.

In Isaiah chapter 53:2-7 it was prophesied as stated;

“For He grew up before God like a tender shoot, and like a root out of parched ground; He has no stately form or majesty That we should want Him, Nor appearance that we should be attracted to Him. He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows and familiar with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face. He was despised, and we did not appreciate Him. Surely He bore our heartaches, and our sorrows He carried; yet we ourselves viewed Him as stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted. He was wounded for our rebellious acts. He was crushed for our sins. He was punished so that we could have peace, and we received healing from his wounds. He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He remained silent; like a lamb that is led to slaughter, And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, So He did not open His mouth.”

In the book of Matthew chapter 1: 18-23; Isaiah 9:6; the pronouncement was that His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace, and Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins. John the Baptist ushered in the coming of Christ (John chapter 1) and he announced Jesus as the Lamb of God who will take away the sins of the world. These and many other scriptures talk about Jesus. I would like to encourage you to talk to other Christians who know Jesus and also know about how through love and compassion, He brought healing, deliverance and comfort to many.

1 John 5:10-12

10 He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son. 11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

John the Baptist did not know Jesus when he preached of His coming. God told John everything he needed to know about the coming Messiah before he saw Jesus. John also read about the coming of Jesus in the Pentateuch (first 5 books of the Bible) and in the books of the prophets. God used John to introduce Jesus to the world. John knew about Jesus his leader before he met Him. Let’s read this report.

John 1: 19-39

19 Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” 22 Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said: “I am ‘the voice of one crying in the wilderness:  “Make straight the way of the LORD,”’ as the prophet Isaiah said.” 24 Now those who were sent were from the Pharisees. 25 And they asked him, saying, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” 26 John answered them, saying, “I baptize with water, but there stands One among you whom you do not know. 27 It is He who, coming after me, is preferred before me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose.” 28 These things were done in Bethabara beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing. 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ 31 I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.” 32 And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. 33 I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” 35 Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. 36 And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. 38 Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), “where are You staying?” 39 He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day (now it was about the tenth hour).

When we the heard the gospel preached to us by a disciple of Jesus Christ, we were able to learn about Jesus our soon to be leader, and what He has in store for us. After we heard about Him we then believed and received Him as our Lord and Savior, and are now ready to follow Him.

Romans 10:13-15

13For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher (disciple)? 15And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of them (disciples) that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

John 7:15-17

15 And the Jews marveled, saying, “How does this Man know letters, having never studied?” 16 Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. 17 If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority.

Notes

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Step 4:

To be a disciple a person must know his leader.

A disciple of Christ must understand that he is not a leader as understood by the world’s perception of leadership. Disciples lead by example (1 Corinthians 11:1-3). Many Christians are still looking to lead (control) others, or for someone to lead (control) them. Some Christians adopt their bishops or pastors as their “spiritual fathers”. God did not assign any human as the “leader”, shepherd, or “spiritual father” of a congregation; man did (Matthew 23:1-12; 2 Timothy 4:2-4; 1 Corinthians 12 & 14). That was why so many were led astray by men like Jim Jones and David Koresh, etc, and met their shameful demise in the name of Christianity (Matthew 15:13-14). If Jesus wanted to establish an earthly leader in His absence, He probably would have ordained Peter as the first example before He left (Matthew 16: 13- 19). He did not give that position of leadership to anyone but the Holy Spirit (Joel 2: 28, 29; John 14: 26, 16:13). Romans 8:14 states; “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” It is inexcusable that many Christians cannot quote what Jesus says, but they can sometimes proudly and confidently quote what their bishop or pastor said, and many influential Christian “leaders” take credit for the words that were already spoken by God. For many Christians, their human leader’s word is final, but biblical interpretation is very crucial. Many Christians believe that God only speaks through their leaders. It takes an honest spirit-led and anointed pastoral team to point us to the true leader of the church and not themselves. If their leader is Jesus Christ, then they would read and believe Hebrews chapter 1, 1 John 2:26, 27, and also be able to give Jesus His due honor.

Hebrews 1: 1-2

1 “God, who at different times and ways spoke in time past unto His people by the prophets, 2But in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he has appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds (read also John chapter one)…”

1 John 2:26, 27

26 “These things I have written to you concerning those who try to deceive you. 27 but the anointing which you have received from Him dwells in you, and you do not need to depend on anyone to teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.”

2 Timothy 4:2-4)

2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.

The steps to know Christ begin when a person recognizes who He is, sees the need for Him, repents, accepts Him, gets baptized, and makes Him Lord of his/her life. This is a part of what we call being “born again” or being “saved” (John chapters 1& 3; 14:6). A person then receives what I call “The salvation package”, which includes, eternal life, power over the devil and sin, victory through trials, abundant life, forgiveness of sins, joy, peace, the Holy Spirit, the armor of God, strength, to name a few (http://riverolife.com/salvation.html).

Mark 16:16

He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned

John 6:35

"I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never become hungry, and whoever believes in me will never become thirsty. Everyone the Father gives me will come to me, and I'll never turn away the one who comes to me.”

Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to Me, all who are weary and loaded with problems, and I will give you rest. 29 “Submit yourself to Me and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 “For My yoke (hitch) is easy and My burden is light.”

To know Jesus is the key to knowing His mission and purpose for your life and the life of others. 1 John 2:4 states; “He that says, I know him, and does not keep and obey his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”

Many people choose the best persons from among their friends to introduce to others. Or, they may choose and recommend the friend that they think has the right qualities to meet the needs of someone else. That is because they know their friends very well. They know that that special friend would not disappoint them. Jesus is that special friend that we could introduce to others.

John 10: 2-5

2 “But he that enters in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.” 3 “To him the gatekeeper (1 Sam 3) opens; and the sheep hears his voice: and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out.” 4“And when he puts forth his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.”5“And a stranger (unsaved people, religious leaders, politicians: Ezekiel 34) will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.”

Psalm 118:8-9

8 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.  9 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.

If we know who our leader is, we will really know who our enemy is.

If we know who our leader is, we will really know what our mission is.

If we know who our leader is, we will not be deceived.

Eli the priest, taught Samuel to recognize the voice of God. God did not ask Eli to convey a message to Samuel. God knows our address. Apart from God ministering to our spirits, we could read the word for ourselves, or buy audio tapes and CDs to listen to if we have a reading disability. In other words, there are no excuses for not knowing who your leader is. He is Jesus Christ and we need to know Him for ourselves.

1 Samuel 3:8-10

8 And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. So he arose and went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you did call me.” Then Eli perceived that the LORD had called the boy. 9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down; and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, ‘Speak, LORD, for Your servant hears.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 Now the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears.”

Luke 21:8

And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them.

2 Corinthians 2:11

… lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.

2 Corinthians 10:4-6

4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.

Ephesians 6:11-13

11 Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand

2 Timothy 3:13

But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.

Notes

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Step 5:

To be a disciple a person must believe and accept his leader.

If someone desires to follow a leader, that follower must verify and believe that the leader is who he said he is. That leader must be on the right pathway, and that there should be unwavering confidence he will not lead anyone astray. The point of believing in someone and something is to experience an occasion to believe. I believe that my car could take me from Texas to New York because it has never failed me yet. I believe that my bed and my chair could carry my weight because they never broke when I thoughtlessly threw my weight on them. I believe in, and accept that a restaurant has good quality and healthy food when I sit to eat in it. Believe means to accept something as true, with reckless abandon. Believe also means to trust in a thing or person. To believe in God means to know, accept, and totally trust in Him. Jesus Christ is the Word of God manifested in the flesh, therefore, to believe in Jesus means to accept His words (God’s Word) and practice His teachings. To reject Jesus is to reject God because Jesus is the Word of God for this age.

John 1: 1-5, 14

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.

14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

Jesus further said in John 14:12-14;

“Truthfully, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father. 13 “Anything you ask in My name, I will do it, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 “If you ask the Father anything in My name, I will do it”.

John 15:7

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.

Jesus then restates His authority in John chapter 10: 1-18;

2 “But he who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep. 3 “To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 “When he puts forth all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5 “A stranger they simply will not follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice of strangers.”….

John 8:30-32

30 As He spoke these words, many believed in Him. 31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

John 5:23-25

23 that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. 24 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. 25 Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live

When you really get to know, understand, and believe in your leader Jesus Christ, you will be able to make significant and confident strides to enrich your life, the life of others, and to expand the kingdom of God. Your confidence in Him will grow and you will be emboldened to exemplify and share the gospel of Jesus Christ with everyone you encounter.

Notes

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Step 6:

To be a disciple, a person must understand and know the vision and mission of his leader.

Many companies and organizations have created powerful thought-provoking and effective mission statements. They are able to motivate everyone to be involved in the process, from the lowest ranking employee to the highest standing executive, while at the same time considering the needs of all their customers. They reviewed, reworked and rewrote their mission statement until it benefited everyone. They agreed that the mission statement correctly identified what they hoped to accomplish. The mission statement defined what they sought after and envisioned. A mission statement is a written, easy-to-remember sentence, short list of bullet points, or paragraphs illustrating the goals and purpose of a company or an organization. The primary function of the mission statement is to guide the company in making critical decisions that effect the direction of the company. It also identifies the company with its customers, vendors, the media, and others that will be using or requiring its services or products. It is about providing solutions and adding value to customers and the market.

Before Christ came, his coming and mission were prophesied by Moses (Deuteronomy 18: 15), Ezekiel (Ezekiel 34), and Isaiah the prophet (Isaiah 61), to name a few. In the book of Luke chapter 4 verse 18-20, Christ brought to the attention of the people, the time of the fulfillment of the prophesy of Isaiah as it read;

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me; He has anointed Me to tell the good news to the poor. He has sent Me to announce the release of the prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, to set oppressed people free. 20 And He closed the book, gave it back to the attendant and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your ears.”

Jesus asked for the book of Isaiah, read His mission to the people and told them that He came to fulfill that mission. The most common scripture to explain His mission is John 3:16-17;

“For God so loved (valued) the world (His creation that sinned) that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever (sinners) believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life”. 17 “For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him”.

What is the meaning of the name “Christ”?

The name Christ, means “The Anointed One”. He was anointed by God to perform a specific mission here on earth among us. This means that as Christians, we are also anointed to perform His mission.

Read Numbers chapter 11; Joel chapter 2; Matthew chapter 10; Acts chapter 1; Romans 8: 11.

Acts 10:37-39

37 You know what has happened throughout the province of Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached— 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how He went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with Him.

John 14:12

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He who believes on me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go unto my Father.

1 John 2:20

But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.

1 John 2:27

As for you, the anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as His anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in Him.

What was His mission?

His mission was clear; He came to set the captives free and to bring true light into a dark world. Many people are bound by drugs, alcohol, sexual promiscuity, greed, lying, fear, stealing, etc. The mission of Jesus Christ is to set every captive person free from sin and its penalty, and make disciples of them so that they could do the same for others, thus saturating the earth with the gospel of Jesus Christ. If He could accept and change Saul (religious extremist, Acts 8: 1-3) to Paul (apostle, Acts 9: 1-31) then He could accept and change people like Bin Laden. Barabbas had to be set free because Christ took His place (Matthew 27: 15- 26). His mission is fixed, clear, and simple and does not need any readjustments. Remember, what ever God desires for you, He desires for your enemies. Therefore, if we wish and pray that our enemies be destroyed, we would be working against the purpose of His mission, the same mission we were commanded to fulfill. That is why Jesus commanded us to love our enemies. Jesus sent us to reach the lost, including the Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Bahá'í World Faith adherents, Satanists, Atheists, thugs, murderers, prostitutes, fornicators, adulterers, abortionists, hate groups, gangsters, etc, and people of many other religions. We intend to reach them by extending the love of God to them through us with the hope of converting them to Christianity. In many cases we have to befriend them in order to influence them for greater is He that is in us than He that is in the world. God is no respecter of persons. He does not show preference for Jews over Muslims or whites over other races. In biblical history, God judged whoever transgressed His laws, especially those who knew better, and has set a day when He will judge the entire world (Acts 17:31). Therefore, His mission is to reach the entire world without preference to any particular people, and make disciples of them. When Jesus said to start from Jerusalem, He meant starting from where we are. It would be questionable to bypass those areas around you that need the gospel of deliverance, to travel hundreds of miles away to share it. He told Moses in Deuteronomy 18:15-19 to tell His people that anyone who does not receive Jesus whom had He sent, will be judged. Many of the Jews have rejected Him (John 1:12).

His mission is not about a bishop, pastor, or denomination’s narrow vision, but the broad and far-reaching unselfish vision that was set in stone by God and demonstrated through Jesus Christ.

I must interject that according to the original script, even though the gospel is known as the “Gospel of Jesus Christ”, it was recorded as the “Gospel of God”, the “Gospel of the Kingdom”, the “Kingdom of God”, and the Kingdom of Heaven”.  Jesus also said that He preached whatever His father commanded Him to preach and that it was His father’s doctrine.

Matthew 4:23

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

Romans 15:16

That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost

John 7:16 - Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me”.

John 14:10

Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works.

John 12:47

“And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world”. 48 He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day”.

John 8:15

“You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one.”

Luke 6:27

“But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you”

Luke 6:35

“But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and the evil.”

Romans 2:11 - For there is no respect of persons with God.

Luke 9: 52-56

“And He sent messengers ahead of Him. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. 53 But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem. 54 And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.”

Jesus did not come to offer options and alternatives to find our way back to God. God sent Him as the representative of the only solution to secure our pathway back to God. (John 3:16)

Jesus Christ came to this earth to deliver all of mankind from the sins or negative zone of comfort that could separate us from God forever and cause us to go to hell. (Romans 1; Galatians 5:16-26; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

Galatians 5:19-21

19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and corruption; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, disagreements, separation 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

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Step 7:

To be a disciple a person must be obedient and committed to the leader and his mission.

We must be obedient hearers and doers of the Word. Obedience is the act or practice of following instructions, acting in accordance with rules or regulations, or submitting to authority. Obedience is the supreme test of our faith in God. Jesus is the perfect example of obedience. His life on earth was of complete obedience to the Father, even to the point of death. When Jesus said “follow me”, He meant that we should believe, observe, and do what He did. Philippians 3:5-10 reads;

5 “Have this attitude in you that was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, and being made in the likeness of men.” 8 “Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” 9 “As a result, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

John 12:48-50

48 He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. 49 For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. 50 And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”

John 17: 1-8

1 Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, 2 as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. 4 I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. 5 And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was. 6 “I have manifested Your name to the men whom You have given Me out of the world. They were Yours, You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. 7 Now they have known that all things which You have given Me are from You. 8 For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me. (John 14:10)

Romans 6: 15-20 states; “Don’t you know, that to whoever you submit your selves to becomes you master to obey,  whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” Jesus stressed the importance and position of obedience when He said to His disciples in Luke 6:46; “And why call me your Lord, and do not the things which I say?”  And in John 15:14 Jesus said; “You are My friends if you do whatever I command you”.

Anyone who wants to be obedient to God or any other authority must know what is required of them based on the principles, guidelines, or teachings. We cannot submit to who or what we do not know. A person has to study and understand what or who he is required to submit to in order to avoid being led astray. Because the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit, they were able to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the book of John 14: 26, Jesus said; “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you”. They understood the principles of the gospel of God (John 12:48-50; 14:10) as was taught by Christ himself, and were able to stand together firmly against the religious leaders of that day. Being religious is not necessarily being right. Let us examine the response made by the apostles to the religious leaders in Acts 5: 24- 29;

24 ‘Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they underestimated the power of these ‘uneducated disciples.’ 25 Then came one and told them, saying, “Behold, the men that you put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.” 26 ‘Then the captain and the officers, went and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.’ 27 ‘And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,’

28 Saying, “Did we not strictly command you that you should not teach in this name? And, take a look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us”. 29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, “We must obey God rather than men.”

We should not allow religious leaders to control us based on the scriptures they may use to control the masses, which include Hebrews 13:17: “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you;” or, perhaps the story of Moses and the rebellious Israelites in Numbers 16. To watch out for their souls do not mean to dictate, control, and to restrict the actions and clear thinking of the saints; but to help them to:

        find their place in Christ

        recognize and obey the voice and commands of Jesus via the Holy Spirit

        to recognize their gifts and abilities in the body of Christ

        give them room to train and exercise their gifts in and out of the assembly

        to meet the standards needed for them to be effective and fruitful Disciples of Jesus Christ

        prepare them for the saturation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ across the world

        prepare them to meet a smiling Savior. (Matthew 25)

I am not trying to create division or encourage disloyalty in any assembly, but admonishing everyone that it is important to know the teachings of Christ so that we would know who to submit to. God told us to submit to Christ because He is our only Shepherd. The scriptures do not in anyway endorse a slave/master atmosphere in which some religious leaders may demand your total obedience to fulfill their agenda, but it supports a team of believers (Ephesians 4: 1-16) that would train and release God’s people to fulfill His will (“for they watch out for your souls”). Moses obeyed and consulted with God every step of the way by faith, but when he disobeyed God by striking the rock in his anger against God’s people, he was not allowed to enter the Promised Land.  Our obedience is to God through Jesus Christ, whom He selected and commanded to lead, feed, and to teach us. Jesus then left the Holy Spirit in charge of His church, and not any human. He selected twelve of His best disciples/apostles who understood His mission and were committed to being His examples and not one of them was elevated as their surrogate leader. They followed the guidance and instructions of the Holy Spirit just as the Lord commanded like a colony of ants. There are many good church leaders who understand the structure Christ left in place for us to follow, and therefore train and prepare the members to be ministers of the gospel of Christ. Some of them do not also see the need for them to preach every service, on the media, and special functions; they allow and make room for the potential ministers of the church to practice and perfect their ministries. There are also many churches that are involved in various good community programs, but I am discussing matters pertaining to Christian discipleship. In the end, we all have to stand before God individually to give account for ourselves (Romans 14:12) based on the spiritual gifts and abilities given to us from God by the Holy Spirit to perform God’s agenda and not any other agendas. Leadership (model discipleship) teams should teach their members how to recognize and obey the voice of Jesus Christ and train them to be flaming, fiery ministers of the gospel. (Psalm104:4; 1 Samuel chapters 1-3; John 10; 1 Corinthians 12). Do not let any one control or deceive you because it is your life, your body, your soul, and your future you are investing in. God created us all with our own free will to choose. When Christ knocks on our heart’s door, we are the only ones that could open that door. It would be our decision to do so. Revelation 3:20 states; “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hears my voice, and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will have supper with him, and he with me”. He will never force us to serve or obey Him. We have to make that decision to do so on our own.

Respect is earned and is not demanded. Demanding respect is tyranny or dictatorship; controlling and suppressing the will of the people. These actions cause people to become unhappy puppets. There is nothing more satisfying and rewarding than choosing to serve God or any other entity because you desire to do so.

Let us go to Mathew 15: 12- 14, and read how Jesus addressed this problem;

12 “Then His disciples came and said to Him, “Do you know that the Pharisees (religious leaders) were offended when they heard this saying?” 13 But He answered and said, “Every plant which My heavenly Father has not planted (positions established by men) will be uprooted.” 14 “Let them alone. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch.”

Joshua 24:15

And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

It is advisable to take note that Jesus did not say those that were misled would be excused, but rather, both will perish. Jesus also gave an illustration showing the outcome of obedience and disobedience to His disciples in Mathew 7: 24-27;

24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of mine, and does them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:” 25 “And the rain came down, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” 26 “And every one that hears these sayings of mine, and does nothing with them, shall be compared to a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand:” 27 “And the rain came down, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.”

If for instance, a person who was hired as a dishwasher at a restaurant, decides to spend the day cleaning up the counter tops and floor because the kitchen looked filthy to him. Or, suppose the dishwasher decided to assist the overwhelmed chef because there was a lot of cooking to be done. What do you think would happen if the restaurant runs out of clean dishes at peak hour? Will the manager be happy with the dishwasher’s decision?

Adhering to rules is somewhat simple but could be very tricky at times. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 9:17; “For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me”.

Misled church leaders who mislead the congregation of the Lord and twist the scriptures for their own personal benefit are described in the five scriptures listed below.

1.        2 Timothy 3:5

“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power (authority) thereof: Do not associate with them.”

2.        Titus 1:16

“They profess that they know God; but in works they deny (insubordination) him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work good-for-nothing.”

3.   1 John 5:1-3

1“If a person believes that Jesus is the Christ, is born of God, and loves the father, will love his children as well. 2 This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and obeying his commands. 3 This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not oppressive.”

4.    2 John 1:6

This is love that we walk according to His commandments. This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.

5.   Read Ezekiel 34

2 Corinthians 3:5-7

5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God, 6 who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter(law of Moses) but of the Spirit for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

Matthew 8: 19-22

19 Then a certain scribe came and said to Him, “Teacher, I will follow You wherever You go.”

20 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” 21 Then another of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” 22 But Jesus said to him, “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”

Christian disciples cannot be obedient to God unless they know of what He approves as well as what he does not approve.

Notes

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Step 8:

To be a disciple a person must desire and pursue the same purpose, mission, and outcomes as his leader.

A true disciple should be willing and happy to translate his care and compassion into a global community action, through a uniform message. The disciple should see through the eyes of his master. I am sure many people would like to know what motivated Mother Theresa, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr, etc, to make the sacrifices they made to spread peace and love. Without a shadow of doubt, most of us would say that they were moved by love and compassion for oppressed and hurting people. They could not rest because they pursued total happiness and peace for everyone. The price to be paid was not in question. The scripture says that God is not willing that anyone should perish, but that all should come to repentance. So, He sent His only Son to die for the sins of the entire world, even the terrorists. His mission was not about politics, money or power, but of positively changing lives forever; lives that would be able to cope with and survive in every environment.

2Peter 3:9;

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

John 3:16-17;

16 “For God so loved (valued) the world (His creation that sinned) that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever (sinners) believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”17 “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.”

Jesus was moved by compassion as he assessed the needs of the people. He had to do something to help them. He already stated His mission (Luke 4:18- 19) and proceeded to perform it.

Matthew 9:36

“When he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they were exhausted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.”

Matthew 14:14

“And Jesus went forth, and saw a huge crowd, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.”

Jesus kept His promises and stayed on course with His mission. He made sure that His actions and verbal expressions did not get in the way of His goals. Let us discuss a few examples. In John 3: 17, it stated that God sent Jesus not to condemn the world but to save it. In other words, He knew that the world was full of sinners, and that sinners do only what they know to do  best, and that is, to sin (we were all born in sin and fashioned in iniquity; Psalm 51:5). Sinners do not view sin as doing wrong but as a way of survival. He did not expect righteous living from sinners at any level of society. A person cannot rid himself of sinful habits without the power of God’s transformation through the blood of Jesus Christ. Even many Christians struggle to live a lifestyle pleasing to God. Therefore, as disciples we should not condemn anyone because of their sinful habits but look at them as opportunities for God’s redemptive power to be manifested through us. We were not called to establish religious laws and legislation, but to help people to be liberated from the desires to break those laws. John the Baptist did well staying on course with his mission until he condemned King Herod for committing adultery. Because of that, his ministry was ended (Matthew 11: 1-19; 14: 1-13). I personally believe that Jesus did not attempt to deliver John or visit him in prison because He and His disciples would have been seen as John’s accomplices in matters of ‘legislating morality’, or the condemnation of the sinner. In my mind, it would have hampered the growth of His ministry in that country. Jesus, His disciples and the apostles had no conflict with the heathen government or sinners. Persecution came from the religious people.

For further clarification please read the additional scriptures below.

        John 18:36 - Jesus said, "My kingdom is not a part this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

        Matthew 10:16 – “Behold, I send you forward as sheep in the middle of wolves: be therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.”

        Matthew 22:21 - “Then said he unto them, give therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.”

        Mark 6:4-6

4 Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.” 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 He was amazed at their lack of faith.

        Matthew 10: 7, 8 – “As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, and cleanse those who have leprosy, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.”

As Disciples, we are moved by compassion and not by financial gain. It would be unfruitful to announce to the unsaved or backslidden that you would go to their city to conduct a revival or crusade if the price is right. It would be also unwise to assume that because they spent money to acquire worldly things, they should not complain about paying for spiritual help. We know that Christ has already paid the price.

2 Timothy 3:3

“Not a lover of wine, nor a striker, not greedy of filthy lucre (dirty money); but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;”

Many ministers unconsciously exploit the comments made by Paul in 1 Corinthians chapter 9, and they focus more on verse 14 which reads; “Even so has the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel”. Paul was explaining the law of the Levites in Deuteronomy 10:9; “That is why the Levites have no share or inheritance among their brothers; the LORD is their inheritance, as the Lord your God told them”. And in Deuteronomy 14:27 it reads; “And do not neglect the Levites living in your towns, for they have no allotment or inheritance of their own”. We no longer live by the laws of Moses given to him by God, but by the words of Jesus given to Him by God (Luke 22:35-36). It is therefore advisable for us to use wisdom when we are around certain people or certain places. In verse 15 of 1 Corinthians 9, Paul states; “But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void”. Paul was applying wisdom to his walk. I would suggest that you read the whole chapter to understand the implications of your decisions. In the scriptures listed below, Jesus instructed His disciples not take money with them on their mission journey. According to Jewish tradition, the people took care of the ministers and priests. The religious leaders could not own any assets. But in the latter scripture, He indicated before He left this earth that they were to take care of themselves. Paul gave the same instructions, followed by good reasoning. If we embrace the monetary principles of the laws of Moses then we should practice what it teaches that the Levites (ministers) should not own or have material possessions including houses and lands. Let us remember that the purpose of ministering for God is not to become the “fat cat” of the ministry, but strive to make sure that the needs of the body of Christ are addressed (Ezekiel 34; Malachi 2 & 3; Acts 4).

Matthew 10:9

“Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor money in your purses,”

Mark 6:8

“And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, only a staff; no scrip, no bread, and no money in their purse:”

Luke 10:4

“Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way”.

Before Jesus left for Heaven He completed His instruction concerning their support. The disciples had to take care of themselves. They were fishermen again when they were not preaching. When Peter needed money to pay taxes, Jesus sent him to catch the fish because Peter was a fisherman. Paul was a tentmaker. They never stopped earning a living; they just had set priorities and boundaries. In other words, they had to discipline themselves. God does not raise “spoiled brats”, but teaches us to be independent, work with our own hands, and to put our trust in Him.

Matthew 17:24-27

24 When they had come to Capernaum, those who received the temple tax came to Peter and said, “Does your Teacher not pay the temple tax?” 25 He said, “Yes.” And when he had come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes, from their sons or from strangers?” 26 Peter said to Him, “From strangers.” Jesus said to him, “Then the sons are free. 27 Nevertheless, lest we offend them, go to the sea, cast in a hook, and take the fish that comes up first. And when you have opened its mouth, you will find a piece of money; take that and give it to them for Me and you.”

Acts 18:1-3

1 After these things Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth. 2 And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them. 3 So, because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers.

Acts 20:33-34

"I coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. You yourselves know that these hands ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me,"

Luke 22:35-36

“And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, did you lack anything? And they said, ‘nothing’. 36 “Then said he unto them, but now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and if he has no sword, sell his garment, and buy one.”

1 Corinthians 9:18

What is my reward then? That is, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel.

Deuteronomy 24:19

19 “When you reap your harvest in your field, and forget a sheaf in the field, you shall not go back to get it; it shall be for the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.

Many ministers are waiting on “money” from the Lord to launch their ministries. The truth is that ministering really may not cost anything but time to witness to neighbors, family members, friends, work associates, or strangers. Jesus told us to go out, not to acquire a building and wait for them to come in. I remembered when I was first called into ministry, many ministers encouraged me and others to launch out by faith, quit our jobs, and enjoy the benefits of obedience to fulltime ministries. After awhile, I realized that many of these ministers were retired military men receiving large pensions and full benefits, and/or, a considerable inheritance from their deceased relatives. Some were still young enough after military retirement to join the work force of major corporations at age 38-40. They then resigned or retired from their second job to go into fulltime ministry receiving two pensions. Some of them have been successful athletes or entertainers, or personally know some others that are. This could be discouraging for a new disciple who maybe struggling financially to start or maintain a “traditional” ministry, not knowing the truth behind many ‘successful’ ministries. Another pastor advised me to analyze an area before considering starting a ministry there because the people in that area may not be able to support me. That is what I call “losing sight of the vision and mission of Jesus Christ”. I advise you to do what you can with what you have. God desires your faithfulness. Share the gospel one person at a time. One new person per day could result in 365 new souls per year; one new person per week could produce 52 new souls per year. The people you reached could reach others. Smile!! Ministers should not use the scriptures to influence people to thinking that godliness, spiritual and physical healing is associated with financial gain (planting a seed); especially knowing that it would financially benefit these ministers more. Jesus already paid the price for everything we need, and rained blessings upon the just and the unjust (Matthew 5:45). We must also remember that the Holy Spirit is the one who will convict the world of sin and of righteousness and not our dependence on gimmicks, concerts, banquets, conferences, forums, money, etc.

It is not wrong to work and hope for a financial breakthrough, and the finer things of life. Nevertheless, it becomes sin when those desires become the main focus and passion in our lives, because people then become “things” and turn into a part of the equation for our own personal success.

Let us encourage each other to sow seeds of righteousness and become obedient and fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 10:24 - And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works)

John 16:7-11

7Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. 8And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9Of sin, because they believe not on me; 10Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; 11Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

2 Peter 2:1-3

“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who discreetly shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their malicious ways; by reason of which the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 3 And through covetousness shall they with pretentious (showy) words make merchandise (exploit) of you: whose judgment now of a long time will not be delayed, and their damnation is soon coming”.

1Timothy 6:3-9

3 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.  6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.

2 Timothy 2:14-16

14 Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. 15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 16 Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.

I have heard Christian leaders say that they were extending their faith in God for a 3rd private jet or helicopter to add to their fleet, a large Olympic size swimming pool, a second mansion by a lake or ocean, the most expensive cars, but have a deaf ear to the numerous members at the altar praying for a job; for enough money to turn on their lights; sicknesses; diseases; about to loose their house or/and car; marriage about to fall apart, children on drugs; this self-centeredness angers God (Ezekiel 34; Malachi 3 & 4; Acts 4).  When needs are not met, the congregants are told that maybe there is sin in their lives, they lack faith, or they need a closer walk with God. The truth is that no one else has control over the offering plate. As a pastor I found it very challenging to preach and teach the truth because people have been so damaged or brainwashed by the current corrupt system, they expected me to “exploit” them as if it were the normal thing to do. My Godly conscience did not allow me to pursue that route to personal success by exploiting anyone, and many of them thought that I was wrong to “pursue the right thing” which is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. When Christ returns, the multi-million-dollar structures and bank accounts will all be dissolved and only people will be standing before God awaiting His decision of where they will spend eternity. A huge ministry, enormous assets, or a large bank account in no way indicate a closer walk with God, great faith, an understanding of God’s will for all of us, or the mission of Jesus Christ. If this picture does not move any of us, then we all have blind eyes and hearts of stone, and need to repent and do the first works. (Read Revelations chapters 2 and 3).

Proverbs 22:16

He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches, and he who gives to the rich, will surely come to poverty.

Isaiah 5:20

Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter.

Matthew 24:11

11And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.

Matthew 7:22-24

22Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?  23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

2 Thessalonians 2: 9-12

9Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,  10And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.  11And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: 12That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

2 Timothy 4:2-4

2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.  3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;  4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

1 Thessalonians 1:5-7

"For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. "

Quotation:

“Christianity started out in Palestine as a fellowship; it moved to Greece and became a philosophy; it moved to Italy and became an institution; it moved to Europe and became a culture; it came to America and became an enterprise." Sam Pascoe

I believe that the many American believers have done a tremendous job of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ in this country and in many countries across the world; and that there is much more to be done. We should not let a few misguided religious and non-christian people overshadow and tarnish the image of the whole body of Christ. The quotation above is the expression of what was visible to the writer. We dare to be true and to let our light shine so that we could positively influence America and the rest of the world.

Romans 14:16

Let not then your good be evil spoken of.

2 Peter 2:2

And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

Is God more concerned about money than your soul’s salvation, deliverance and healing? Certainly not!

Notes

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Step 9:

To be a disciple a person must demonstrate his allegiance to his leader by his lifestyle, his fruitfulness and his faithfulness.

The word Christian was derived from the word Christ as was the word American from the word America. As an American, I have to obey the laws of this country even though I was born and raised in a different country. I had to give up my original citizenship and lifestyle in order to receive my American citizenship. I can no longer abide by the laws of my country of birth while I reside in America. I do remember struggling with the new changes and adjustments to the new laws which caused me to complain repeatedly (Numbers 11). During the course of my adjustment, my American friends told me that if I thought that my country was better, that I should have returned. I did not go back, but painfully endured. Now after more than 34 years of living in America, I have no desire to go back to live in Guyana. I am immersed in this wonderful, colorful and diverse culture. Matthew 16:24 states; “If anyone would come after me, let him deny (discipline) himself and take up his cross and follow me”.

My lifestyle must demonstrate a change from the old life and also include a pattern of unconditional love.

James 3:11-12

11 Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? 12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.

John 13:34-35;

34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love (value) one another, even as I have loved (valued) you. 35 “By this love all men know that you are My disciples.”

We are told that love for other believers is the evidence of our being a member of God's family.

1 John 3:10.

“In this the children of God are made known, and the children of the devil are exposed: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, neither he that does not love (value) his brother.”

Because most people are visual and subsequently auditory learners, their first impression of us is what remains with them for a long time. In 1Timothy 4:12 it reads as follow; “Let no man look down on your youth; but be an example of the believers, in word, conversation, charity, in spirit, faith, and in purity”. My lifestyle should help and not hurt myself and others. I should represent a source of strength to my Christian brothers and sisters. I should also be a beacon of light to all those that are lost. I should not use anyone as a vessel to fulfill the lust of my flesh, the lust of my eyes or the pride of life. If I love God I would love people, and I would not hurt them.

Additional reading: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; Ephesians 2:3; Galatians 5:16; 1 John 2:16

Fruitfulness would be the result of our obedience to God through Jesus Christ. God is glorified when we become fruitful Christians.

John 15:5-8

5 “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he will bears much fruit, for without Me you can do nothing. 6 “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned. 7 “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 “My Father is glorified by this that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.”

As we become more devoted to the Lord and learn to walk in His ways, our lives will change. The biggest change will take place in our hearts, and the overflow of His word, love, and presence will breathe new attitudes (thoughts, words and actions) representing that change. The change we seek takes place from the inside out, through the power of the Holy Spirit. It isn’t some kind of feeling we can just call up on our own at a Sunday morning worship service.

We are supposed to share our faith and tell nonbelievers and backslidden Christians about the wonderful changes Jesus Christ has made in our lives. No matter what our maturity level is in this Christian life, we will always have something to offer. Do not let anyone tell you that you do not know enough to make a difference. That’s not true! Some of the most exciting representatives of the Christian life are new believers, who have just experienced a change and the awesome love of God and not know a lot of Bible verses or quotes. We just need to share our experiences and testimonies with people. The outcomes of fruitfulness is sharing the gospel, healing the sick, and delivering those that are bound by drugs, sexual habits, alcohol, devils, anger, poverty, and other debilitating problems.

Another good trait of a disciple is faithfulness. Faithfulness depends on the value we place on whom or what we are committed to. These could include God, church, spouse, family, job, education, relationship, etc, or, what/whomever we are not willing to give up. To be faithful to Christ means to love and obey Him; and to love Him means to give up everything to follow Him. These include our selves, our fleshly desires, other people, and things. He must be supreme in our lives.

        Luke 16: 10-12;

10 “He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much. 11 “Therefore if you have not been faithful in the use of unrighteous wealth, who will entrust the true riches to you? 12 “If you have not been faithful in the use of that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own?”

        Psalms 31:23; “Love the LORD, all his saints! The LORD preserves the faithful, but the proud he pays back in full.”

        Matthew 25:23

“His lord said to him, Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things: enter you into the joy of your lord.”

        Galatians 6:9; “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”

        Luke 14:26

If any man comes to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

        Matthew 10:37-39

37 He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38 And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39 He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.

        Matthew 12:46-50

46 While He was still talking to the multitudes, behold, His mother and brothers stood outside, seeking to speak with Him. 47 Then one said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak with You.” 48 But He answered and said to the one who told Him, “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?” 49 And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.”

In the scriptures mentioned above Christ explained what allegiance really meant, that is, to put Him first in our lives because our very existence depends on Him. Abraham had to pass his test of allegiance to God by his obedience to offer Isaac as a sacrifice back to God. God honored Abraham’s obedience, spared the life of Isaac, and provided a ram for the sacrifice (Genesis 22). He is calling on us to prioritize our preferences. People, who join the military, fraternities, gangs, police force, etc, are not strangers to this kind of allegiance. If we are single, then our selection for a spouse should be someone who loves the Lord. If we are already married, then we would do all we can to win our families over to Christ in order to minimize any conflicts. Paul also explains what allegiance to Christ means, in 1 Corinthians 7. Let us just look at verses 32 to 35:

32 But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord—how he may please the Lord. 33 But he who is married cares about the things of the world—how he may please his wife. 34 There is a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world—how she may please her husband. 35 And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction.

In addition, I plead with you to never, never give up. Solomon said that the righteous falls seven times and gets up again. (Proverbs 24:16). If you ask the owner of a mega business how he became successful, he will mention the many failures that preceded the successes. He just stayed faithful to his goal. (Revelation 2:10)

Paul said; “Furthermore, it is required in stewards that a man is found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)

Notes

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Step 10:

To be a disciple a person must count the cost and prepare to pay the price (accountability) of discipleship.

What is the cost of discipleship? Anything of value is costly. People are very valuable to God, and it will take all kinds of resources and different avenues to reach them. In some instances the Word of God when spoken will offend many people, even relatives. Living for God also means fellowshipping across racial, cultural, and social lines, even in unpopular situations. Discipleship calls for boldness even when those you love do not agree with you.

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Matthew 12:46-50

46 While He was still talking to the multitudes, behold, His mother and brothers stood outside, seeking to speak with Him. 47 Then one said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak with You.” 48 But He answered and said to the one who told Him, “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?” 49 And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.”

Luke 12:51-53

51 Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. 52 For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three. 53 Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”

When a person decides to follow Christ, his “earthly” family may or may not agree with his decision and could turn their backs on him. He has chosen to become a dedicated member of the “heavenly” family of God. Many earthly families have become unspiritual and unfruitful cliques. Many of them have done more harm than good, even in religious circles. The family of God which is the body of Christ is open and faithful to all those who desire to be a part on it.

Luke 14:28-33

"For if anyone, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it - for fear that, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.' Or what king, going to make war against another king, does not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is still a great way off, he sends a representative and asks conditions of peace. So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple".

Reaching the lost may also be life threatening and will call for courage, faith in God and persistence. Many missionaries have lost their lives for the sake of the gospel and the love for people. Jesus said in Matthew 16: 25- 26;

"For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?"

Let us for a moment; examine the charge we are all called to keep. Jesus explicitly told us the requirements for being His disciples. He spelled out the level of commitment we would have to make if we desire to follow Him. He made it known to us before hand so that we could factor it into our decision process. Subsequently, when we make a decision to follow Him we will be very aware of our surroundings.

Luke 14:26

“If any man come to me, and favor his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, more than Me, he cannot be my disciple.”

Matthew 10:38

“Whoever does not take up his cross and follow me does not deserve to be my disciple.”

Luke 9: 62

“Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”.

Could this next scripture be viewed as cowardice, being fearful, or acts of treason?

Revelation 21:8

“But cowardly, unfaithful, and hateful people, murderers, sexual sinners, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars will find themselves in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death."

Many Christians may think that this kind of commitment is fanatical but it takes everything we have and more to defeat our enemy the devil, and to secure freedom for ourselves and others. You will find that military terminologies were used very often in the bible. Words like fight, overcome, battle, enemy, armor, and sword of the spirit, weapons of warfare, helmet of salvation, breastplate (bullet-proof vest) of righteousness, fiery darts, and shield of faith are often used. I am sure that any veteran of war could explain to us the cost of enlistment in the armed forces, or, perhaps we could talk with a missionary who served in China, Budapest, Russia or a Muslim country and came out alive. My son an ex-marine, told us of a time when he violated a code of duty because he had problems with his wife. The sergeant told him that if they wanted him to have a wife, they would have ordered him one. No excuses were accepted. Many people have considered the cost of membership before joining a club, gang, fraternity or any other organization. This mission calls for blood, sweat, tears, finances and joy. The truth is that in life we all experience all these very trying moments. Let us suffer and rejoice for the right reasons.

        1 Peter 3:14; “But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear; do not be afraid.”

        1 Peter 3:17; “It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good deeds than for doing evil.”

        1 Peter 4:13; “Rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”

        1 Peter 4:15; “If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.”

When someone joins the military, the police force, or a gang, that person agrees to a high level of commitment. This commitment could cost him his family and /or even his life. Jesus expressed the risks that His disciples would have to face if they followed Him. He wanted to erase any false sense of hope and security, and to make known to us that the road to eternal life is not an easy one. But we must remember that He said He will be walking with us all the way. Here are a few more of His words to make us understand that the Christian walk is not a candy trail.

Matthew 28:20

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen

John 6:53-68

53 Then Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you. 54 Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For My flesh is food indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. 56 He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me. 58 This is the bread which came down from heaven—not as your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever.” 59 These things He said in the synagogue as He taught in Capernaum. 60 Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, “This is a hard saying; who can understand it?” 61 When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples complained about this, He said to them, “Does this offend you? 62 What then if you should see the Son of Man ascend where He was before? 63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. 64 But there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who would betray Him. 65 And He said, “Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.” 66 From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. 67 Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” 68 But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Matthew 7:13-15

13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.

Romans 8:18

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Matthew 24:9

“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake.

Luke 21:12

But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake.

Matthew 8: 19-22

19 Then a certain scribe came and said to Him, “Teacher, I will follow You wherever You go.”

20 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” 21 Then another of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” 22 But Jesus said to him, “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”

Notes

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Step 11:

To be a disciple, a person must exercise faith in God through Jesus Christ to keep, protect and provide for him as he executes His mission.

The Disciple must believe that God, who had called him, will keep him from all evil and is able to complete the work He had begun in him (Philippians 1:6). Jesus said in Matthew 28: 19- 20; “Go, and I will be with you always”. We must exercise faith (Romans 14: 23; Hebrews 11:1-40; James 2: 18) in God to accomplish the tasks to which we were assigned to. The disciple of Christ is invincible until he is called home. In Romans chapter 8 and verses 31 through 39, the writer reminds us that despite our detours, assaults and sufferings, God promises to sustain us, protect us, and give us the victory continually.  The writer states;

31 “What then shall we say to all our problems? If God is for us, who can be against us?” 32 “God did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?” 33 “Who could bring a charge against God's elect? God is the one who justifies;” 34 “Who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, was raised, and is at the right hand of God, and is also interceding for us.” 35 “Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, or the sword?” 36 “It is written; "For your sake we are being put to death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." 37 “But in all these things we overwhelmingly overcome through Him who loved us.” 38 “For I am convinced that neither death, life, angels, principalities, things present, things to come, nor powers,”39 “Neither height, depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord”.

Notice, Paul did not mention or advise anyone about having a “spiritual father, umbrella, or covering”. The truth is that our walk as disciples requires continuous faith in God to accomplish the task of fulfilling the “great commission,” and to sustain us. (Galatians 3:11; Jude 24). The disciple is invincible until his mission is completed. We will as disciples face numerous obstacles, setbacks, trials, and discouraging moments. We have an enemy who is persistent, does not want us to succeed, and will try anything and everything to stop us. At times the devil will constantly employ those closest to us to inflict wounds on us (Matthew 10:36). Jesus said in John 16:33; “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” Jesus forewarned Peter of his upcoming test of allegiance. He said in Luke 22: 30-32;

“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:  32But I have prayed for you, that your faith fails not: and when you are converted, strengthen your brethren.”

Jesus knew that it requires faith to serve God and that is why He is constantly making intercession for us. That is because he wants us to win.

Romans 8:27

He that searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because he makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Hebrews 11

1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  2For by it the elders obtained a good report.  3Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.  4By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaks.  5By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.  6But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.  7By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.  8By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.  9By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:  10For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.  11Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.  12Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. 13These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.  15And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.  16But now they desire a better country, that is, heaven: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he has prepared for them a city.  17By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,  18Of whom it was said, in Isaac shall your seed be called:  19Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from where also he received him in a figure.  20By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.  21By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.  22By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.  23By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.  24By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;  25Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;  26Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward.  27By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.  28Through faith he kept the Passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.  29By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians attempting to do, were drowned.  30By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.  31By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.  32And what shall I more say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:  33Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions.  34Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.  35Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:  36And others had trial of cruel mocking and scourging, yes, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:  37They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, tempted, and slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;  38(Of whom the world was not worthy :) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.  39And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:  40God having provided some better thing for us; that they without us should not be made perfect.

Romans 14:23

”And he that doubts is damned if he eats, because he eats not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin”

2 Corinthians 5:7

”For we walk by faith, not by sight”

1Timothy 6:3-9

3 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.  6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.

It is also important to remember that we must carefully listen to the voice of our master Jesus Christ. If we do, there is no way that we could be led astray, perish, or lose our salvation.

John 10:27-29

27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:  28And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man snatch them out of my hand.  29My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to snatch them out of my Father's hand.

This scripture is usually misinterpreted, thus creating a false sense of hope and security, and a decline in moral conduct especially among Disciples of Christ. Some denominations focus only verses 28 and 29, and ignore verse 27, which is the principle reason for our security.  What Jesus was saying was that if we listen to His voice and follow Him, He will grant us eternal life, we will never perish, and no one will be able to snatch us out of Their (God and Jesus) hands.

This scripture in no way, form, or fashion indicates “once saved always saved” because God has created us with a will of our own to choose whether we desire to stay with Him or not. Many other parables indicate that if we do not practice His teachings that we would be lost. Read Matthew 25; Mark 4; Mark 11: 13-20; Luke 9:62; Luke 12: 46-48; John 15. Many denominations teach that a Christian will be saved but he may loose his rewards (1 Corinthians 3: 14-15). Some Christians presumptuously say that they do not mind losing their rewards, as long as they “make it into Heaven”. This scripture is talking about the kind of works and the intentions of the worker (Hebrews 10:26-27).

Thus, many Christians live defeated lives because they were taught that God’s grace will cover their past, present, and future sins, which gives them “the right” to sin at liberty because “no one is perfect”. (Romans: chaps. 6 & 7).

Numbers 15:30

But the person who does anything presumptuously, whether he is native-born or a stranger, that one brings reproach on the LORD, and he shall be cut off from among his people.

Hebrews 10:26-27

26 For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.

When a person is saved, it means that his sinful nature is removed and is replaced by a Godly nature. “Show and tell”

Romans 6:22-23

22But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

If we live our lives in obedience to our Lord and not as an obstacle to the restoration and salvation of those that are weak and the unsaved, our future will be secure with Him. Nothing should hinder our divine purpose and mission on this earth. Remember, the demons also believe in Jesus but that does not make them Christians or secures them a place in Heaven. (James 2:19)

2 Peter 3:8-11

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.  10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness?

Philippians 2:12-13

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

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Step 12:

If you have decided to follow the 11 steps mentioned above, then this step is for you.

You are now venturing into the world of Christian discipleship. Welcome aboard!

Christian discipleship is the process through which a person becomes a complete and competent follower of Jesus Christ. It is about the intentional training of those (all Christians) who voluntarily submit to the lordship of Jesus Christ by salvation, and want to become imitators of Him in every thought, word, and deed. On the basis of teaching, training, experiences, relationships and accountability, we become beings that are transformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ. It should not cost any Christian a college degree to know how to be a competent disciple of Christ. It is the duty of the church leaders (mature disciples by example) to “make disciples” of the new believers. I do not think that I could tell Jesus that I could not be a fruitful disciple because the college fees were not affordable. Or, I could not tell Him that if He wanted me to become a competent disciple, he would have sent me the money to pay the bible college fees. Disciples should also remember what Jesus said in Acts 1: 8;

Acts 1:8

But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.

The power that Christ was talking about was not necessarily in a scream, shout, theatrics, loud speaking, unknown tongues, “falling out in the Spirit”, “whooping”, or colorful and persuasive speeches. The Holy Spirit is not like a cobra snake in a basket in front of the congregation waiting on our actions like snake charmers, while we play and sing special music in order to make Him rise out of the basket and perform for us.

This power is demonstrated in boldness and courage to speak the truth of the gospel with confidence, as we witness especially in difficult, different, and unfriendly surroundings. It is also not about attending a “hyped-up” service where we listen to our favorite ministers and musicians; it is about wining souls, transforming lives, and bringing deliverance to those that are bound. The Holy Spirit will be the one to convict the world of sin and not our fleshly strategies. Just remember what Jesus said in John Chps 14 & 16:

John 14:15

15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments (to love God and to love your neighbor as your self). 16 And I will pray the Father and He will give you another Helper (Holy Spirit), that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.

John 16:7-9

7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. 8 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me

Acts 4: 29-31

29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

Keep in mind, that as you yield yourself in obedience to God, the Holy Spirit will be doing the will of God through you. Jesus did not ask us to spend millions of dollars to lure people into His kingdom, but by His Spirit the mission of Jesus Christ will be done.

Zechariah 4:6

So he answered and said to me: “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the LORD of hosts.

1 Corinthians 2:4

And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.

Romans 15:19

Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.

Before you venture out as an equipped and well informed disciple, it would be advisable to receive a briefing from your commander-in-chief, the Lord Jesus Christ, followed by a seasoned General, Paul the Apostle.

Matthew 10 (Please read the entire chapter) (Jesus)

        1 “Jesus summoned His twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every kind of disease and every kind of sickness…”

        7 “And as you go, preach, saying, the kingdom of heaven is near.” 8 “Heal the sick, purify the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely you have received, freely give.”

        14 “Whoever does not receive you, nor hear your words, when you leave out of that house or city, shake the dust off your feet.”

        16 “Be careful, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be clever as serpents and innocent as doves.” 17 “But beware of men, for they will hand you over to the courts and terrorize you in their churches”; 18 “And you will even be summoned before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. …”

        26 “Therefore do not fear them, for there is nothing hidden that will not be revealed. 27 “Whatever I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, speak out openly.” 28 “Do not afraid of those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell”

        36 “And a man's enemies shall be those in his own household.”

Ephesians 6: 10-20 (Paul)

10“Last but not least, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might”. 11 “Wear the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the plots of the devil.” 12 “For our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, powers, world forces of this darkness, and spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” 13 “Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to fight back in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” 14 “Stand firm therefore, having tightened your waistband with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having placed your feet, the boots that represents the preparation of the gospel of peace;” 16 “In addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the fiery arrows of the evil one, 17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God”. 18 “With all prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit, and be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, 19 Pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I should speak.”

2 Corinthians 10:3-5

3For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:  4(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

We also should not think of Jesus as a convenient sacrificial lamb, a good-luck pendant, or someone we keep in our pockets to use after we have committed sin, or when we are in trouble. We were commanded by God to listen and to obey the voice of the Jesus The Lamb, and also to follow Him. (Deuteronomy 18:15-19; Matthew 17: 5; John 1: 29; John 10: 14 and 27)

“Christian Discipleship is truly about being and reproducing dedicated followers of Jesus Christ”

Notes

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Section Three

His Expectations of Us as Disciples

Jesus laid out His expectations for us by using parables. A parable is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. We will examine four parables in order to understand what Jesus expects of us as disciples, and we will also look at the possible consequences of disobedience. Seriously speaking, He will be judging us all at the Judgment Seat of Christ based on the works we were assigned by Him to do. In a school setting, at the end of every semester, there is a common question that is repeatedly asked by students. “What can we expect on the final exam sir/madam?” Usually, the answer would be; “Everything I have taught you”. Note: not everything in the text book is applicable for that class. I know it is frustrating for students to purchase an expensive text book with 50 chapters or more of the subject matter, when the instructor only uses about 15 chapters for the course. Jesus said in John 14: 26, that the Holy Spirit will remind us of everything that Jesus taught us. Therefore, we need to learn all of the teachings of Jesus Christ, and when we depart to serve, the Holy Spirit will be in us and with us to remind us of His teachings. We cannot be reminded of what we do not know. We would better understand the rest of Bible if we understand the teachings of Jesus Christ. God told us to listen to the words that He commanded Jesus to tell us. (Duet 18:15-19).

Matthew 11:29

Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

2 Corinthians 5:10.

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad”.

John 12:48

He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.

Parable 1

The parable of the Prodigal son, in another way, is an example of a disciple of Christ who wanted to be spoiled, one that was lazy, and one who wanted to experience all the benefits and blessings of God without hard work. God does not raise spoilt brats, nor is the place of assembly a casino or stock market where we invest ten percent and reap a windfall. Salvation, deliverance, healing and heaven are free, but we have to work for Him in order to access His offer of abundant life and blessings. Working for the Lord is an expression of our obedience and our love for God and fellow man. Unselfishly, we desire to fulfill His will to reach the entire world.

2 Thessalonians 3:8-10

“We did not eat anyone's food without paying for it. Instead, with toil and labor we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to any of you.” 9“It's not as though we didn't have a right to receive support. Rather, we wanted to set an example for you to follow.” 10“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.”

We do not know what had transpired between the father and the younger son, but we know that he wanted all of his inheritance and insisted on leaving.

Let us read the parable and analyze it carefully.

Luke 15:11-32

11And he said, “A certain man had two sons:  12And the younger of them said to his father, “Father, give me the portion of goods that belong to me”. And he divided unto them his living.  13And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, where wasted his substance with uncontrolled living.  14And when he had spent all, there was a great famine in that land; and he began to be in want.  15And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.”  16And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.  17And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!  18I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 19And I am no more worthy to be called your son: make me as one of your hired servants.  20And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.  21And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.  22But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:  23And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:  24For my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.  25Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard music and dancing.  26And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.  27And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.  28And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and entreated him.  29And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither did I break the rules at any time: and yet you never gave me a goat, that I might make merry with my friends:  30But as soon as my younger brother came back, who has devoured your living with prostitutes, you have killed for him the fatted calf.  31And he said unto him, Son, you are ever with me, and all that I have are yours.  32It was necessary that we should make merry, and be glad: for your brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

After reading the parable, it is clear to see that he was a rebellious son who wanted to do his own thing, and would not submit to a disciplined life. He was convinced that there was a better life outside of the farm. After leaving, the negative habits he developed followed him to his new world and quickly consumed him. If you noticed, he did not work or invest his assets wisely, but spent all he had on women and wild living. Then a famine came and he was not prepared or able to sustain himself through it. He finally realized that he had to work to survive, and in a strange land, he was not worth his labor. The only skill he had was that of a farm-hand. So the only job he was able to find was to take care of pigs on a farm. The salary was so small that he had to eat some of the food that he fed to the pigs. He then remembered his father’s wealth, fairness and love, then decided to go back and work as a true servant who would receive better wages and benefits, because he knew that his father owned the farm and cared about his servants. He also remembered that he was a son. Note in verse 29, that his older brother mentioned how he served faithfully without wavering.

Like the rebellious son, many disciples strive after the “American dream”, not the “heavenly promise”, and ignore the fact that there is honest work to be done. We fast and pray for worldly possessions and have no compassion for those that are bound up in sin (Isaiah 58). Many wealth-seeking Christians destroy their lives and the lives of others (Christians and non-Christians) in their quest for worldly possessions. We need to return to God and do what he had called and equipped us to do, i.e., to win the world to Him. He is looking and waiting for us to return to Him and walk in obedience according to His word. Like Paul, let us strive for the “Heavenly Promise” (Matt 6:19-21)

Matthew 7:26-28

26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”

1 Timothy 6:5

Perverse disputing of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

Isaiah 58:5-7

5 Is it such a fast that I have chosen? Is it a day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Will you call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD?  6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?  7 Is it not to give your bread to the hungry, and bring the poor that are homeless to your house? When you see the naked, that you cover him; and that you hide not yourself from your own flesh?

Matthew 6:19-21

19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”.

Matthew 6: 25-34

25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; or about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?

28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?

31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the world seeks. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

Parable 2:

In this parable, Jesus stressed the need for us to be fruitful as disciples. He also expressed His father’s dislike for unfruitfulness. The words he used against the unfruitful disciples were very harsh and decisive. In all His parables, He was not addressing sinners, but His disciples. He wanted to let us all know that there are rules, guidelines, and laws in His kingdom.

John 15

1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.

4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

It is clear that if we stay close to Him and walk in obedience we will be fruitful. On the contrary, if we stray away from Him, we will lose contact with Him (The Vine) and dry up, thus, resulting in separation and destruction. He called His disciples the branches. He said that the branches that are dried up will be cut off and thrown in the fire to be burned. This is a warning that should be taken seriously.

Parable 3:

Again, in this next parable, Jesus was very forceful in expressing his dislike for unfruitful disciples. He was addressing the use of the gifts, talents, and abilities given to us by the Spirit of God. What ever gift God gives to us, we are accountable to Him for it. He knows our makeup and abilities because we were each tailored-made for specific purposes. If used correctly and in obedience, these gifts will create a perfect union in the body of Christ, and a gathering of new souls in the harvest.

Ephesians 4:7-13

7 But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift. 8 Therefore He says: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men.” 9 (Now this, “He ascended”—what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.) 11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.

Mathew 25:14-27

14For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who first called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.  15And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to their several abilities; and left for his journey.  16Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.  17And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.  18But he that had received one went and dug a hole in the earth, and hid his lord's money.  19After a long time the lord of those servants came, and audited them.  20And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, you gave unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.  21His lord said unto him, Well done, you good and faithful servant: you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things: enter into the joy of your lord.  22He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, you gave unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.  23His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things: enter into the joy of the lord.  24Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew that you are a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed:  25And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the earth: look, there, you can have it back 26His lord answered and said unto him, You wicked and slothful servant, you knew that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not scattered seed:  27You should have invested my money with the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with interest.  28Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.  29For unto every one that has shall be given more and he shall have abundance: but from him that has not shall be taken away even that which he has.  30And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Jesus said that the disciple who does not use his gift is wicked (heartless) and fruitless, and will be cast into the hell. These are very strong words. The mouth of the Lord has spoken.

From these parables I gather that the disciple who is allowed, wants to, or is told to sit on the church pew or participate in areas he was not called to be in, would be in serious trouble with the Lord (Refer to the end of Step 7). He needs to make amends with God and get back on track. He has to answer to God and not his church leader. There are many disciples who have abilities to minister but are seated because there are no more opportunities in the building. The “church leader’s vision” may or may not include God’s vision and your gift, but just your attendance and finances. Ministry also goes beyond the building. We have a world to reach. We could do the work of evangelists at home, at work, and wherever we go.

Parable 4:

Luke 13: 6-9

The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree

6 He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. 7 Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ 8 But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. 9 And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’”

Timothy 4:5

“But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.”

The main focus of Jesus in these parables is production. We need to be productive as disciples and not bench warmers. Production is an area of an organization that is free of waste or uselessness. Something that is wasted is a loss to you and the organization.

In a Muda-Free Zone (Muda is Japanese for waste or uselessness), companies know how to define work so it's done right the first time. They know the flow, purpose, and the value of work. They know how to define, delegate, and monitor the progress of work to ensure that workers achieve their goals.

As an organization changes, and as the world around it evolves, it is guaranteed that the work it is doing continues to attach significance to the organization and its players, and therefore, the goals and objectives are accomplished. Projects, processes, operations and all areas go through continuous improvement. This ensures that the work the company is doing continues to improve its image and effectiveness with time. When procedures of the organization are very efficient, especially when utilizing the most modern and up-to-date techniques, they will obtain the most out of their resources. In a Muda-Free Zone, continuous improvement focuses on those areas that yield the highest return on investment and eliminate wasteful actions.

Matthew 21:18-20

18 Now in the morning, as He returned to the city, He was hungry. 19 And seeing a fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, “Let no fruit grow on you ever again.” Immediately the fig tree withered away. 20 And when the disciples saw it, they marveled, saying, “How did the fig tree wither away so soon?”

Organizational Behavior is the study and application of the knowledge about how people, individuals, and groups act in organizations. It does this by taking a systematic approach. That is, it interprets people-organization relationships in terms of the whole person, whole group, whole organization, and whole social system. Its purpose is to build better relationships by achieving human objectives, organizational objectives, and social objectives. The organization's base rests on management's philosophy, values, vision and goals. This in turn drives the organizational culture, which is composed of the formal organization, informal organization, and the social environment. The culture determines the type of leadership, communication, and group dynamics within the organization. The workers perceive this as the quality of work life, which directs their degree of motivation. The final outcomes are performance, individual satisfaction, and personal growth and development. All these elements combine to build the model or framework that the organization operates from.

Jesus has already set the culture of His Church and Christian discipleship, and He expects us to follow His teachings. He also expects us to be very productive because He is a man of production (John 15). Just imagine a church with 5000 members getting excited because after the minister preached, 10 people gave their hearts to the lord even though the sermon was not focused on salvation. Just imagine again 5000 members being activated, motivated and mobilized as true and obedient Disciples of Christ, sharing the word at home, school, work and everywhere they go. Now let us do the math. If a pastor reached about 10-50 new Christians every month from the pulpit, Then 5,000 members could possibly reach 5,000 to 50,000 new disciples in about one year.

John 15:8

Herein is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit; so shall you be my disciples.

Acts 2:41

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

Matthew 5

The Beatitudes

1 And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. 2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

5 Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.

7 Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.

12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world; A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp-stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

John 13:34, 35

34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

The scriptures below explain how we could maintain a productive atmosphere and culture in the body of Christ in order to be fruitful and effective disciples.

Galatians 5:22-26.

22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit; let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Titus 2:6-8

6 Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. 7 In all things, show yourself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing  incorruptness, gravity, sincerity,  8 Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

Titus 3:14

Let our disciples also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

Titus 3:8.

This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men

Hebrews 10:23-25

23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised ;)

24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:  25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as you see the day approaching.

James 1:21-23

21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and overabundance of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.  22But be doers of the word and not hearers only; deceiving your own selves.

In Revelations Chapters 2 & 3, Jesus issued warnings of judgment if we as disciples do not meet His expectations, and commended those who are following the right path. Jesus also indicated through many scriptures that when He returns, He expects to see His church operating the way He originally organized it, as well as with the projected outcomes (Mathew 25:14-27). Therefore, as Disciples of Christ, we must work toward achieving those objectives and expectations. We should be able to identify what needs to be done, and the steps that will have to be taken to correct our mistakes and misunderstandings. Expectations will help us to know what to do and what not to do.

Revelation 2

The Loveless Church

1 “To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, ‘These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: 2 “I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; 3 and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary. 4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lamp stand from its place—unless you repent. 6 But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans (see “Forward”), which I also hate. 7 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.”’

The Persecuted Church

8 “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, ‘These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: 9 “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.”’

The Compromising Church

12 “And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write, ‘These things says He who has the sharp two-edged sword: 13 “I know your works, and where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is. And you hold fast to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days in which Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. 14 But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. 15 Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans (see “Forward”), which thing I hate. 16 Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth. 17 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.”’

The Corrupt Church

18 “And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write, ‘These things says the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass: 19 “I know your works, love, service, faith,] and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first. 20 Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. 21 And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent. 22 Indeed I will cast her into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds. 23 I will kill her children with death, and all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works. 24 “Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden. 25 But hold fast what you have till I come. 26 And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations— 27 ‘ He shall rule them with a rod of iron;  They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter’s vessels’   as I also have received from My Father; 28 and I will give him the morning star.29 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”’

Revelation 3

The Dead Church

1 “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. 3 Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. 4 You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. 5 He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. 6 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”’

The Faithful Church

7 “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, ‘These things says He who is holy, He who is true, “He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens”: 8 “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name. 9 Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. 10 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. 11 Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. 12 He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name. 13 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”’

The Lukewarm Church

14 “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15 “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. 22 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

Luke 9:62

And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

Hebrews 10:38

Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

Before the Lord returns, He will prune and sanctify His church. For reference, Malachi, John the Baptist, Jesus, and Peter reiterated that fact and it is therefore advisable for us to heed the warning and be prepared. There is an old and popular song that is sung called “When the Saints Go Marching In”. One of the lines states; “Oh Lord I want to be in that number when the saints go marching in”. We all would like to be there but we must do our best with what it takes to be there. I have added some scriptures to highlight the significance of us being ready. The “falling away” indicates the pruning of the good branches (active disciples) and clipping off of the dead (useless disciples) branches and leaves.

Malachi 3:3

And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness

Matthew 3:11-13

11I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance. but he that comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:  12Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge (to clean) his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.

Matthew 22:11

11 “But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. 12 So he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ 14 “For many are called, but few are chosen.”

Matthew 25: 1-13

1 “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4 but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5 But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6 “And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ 7 Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9 But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11 “Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12 But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ 13 “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.

2 Thessalonians 2: 1-4

1 Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away (removal of the hypocrites) comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God (church leaders who set themselves up as the ultimate authority in God's church), showing himself that he is God.

1 Peter 4:17-18

17 for the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now “If the righteous scarcely be saved, where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”

Revelations 2:8

“He who has an ear (who want to know the truth), let him hear (will hear and understand) what the Spirit says to the churches.

Matthew 5:6 - “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled”.

Notes

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Section Four

My Observations and Recommendations

I firmly believe that the younger generation should be allowed to actively participate in the indoor and outreach ministries of the church because they are available, they are at an impressionable age, they are very energetic, most of them are very healthy, and have less pressing responsibilities (Ecclesiastes 12). Young people from ages 13-24 could use their multi-tasking skills and energy to reach their peers. They could influence their peers better than the older, more seasoned ministers. They are the future leaders (examples of Jesus Christ) of the church and the world.

Today, we are experiencing tremendous problems with our young people in our home circles, social circles and in educational institutions. These problems include drugs, sexual promiscuity, gender confusion, alcohol, suicide attempts, gang affiliations and activities, and crime, just to name a few. It is evident that the devil finds it most rewarding to recruit young people to fulfill his plan to destroy the lives of people. If these trends continue, the future of our societies would be in question. We are already experiencing high birth defects rates, infertility, miscarriages, abortions (mainly due to sexual misconduct), overcrowded correctional facilities, broken homes and marriages, a sudden surge in hospitals and clinics, and alarming school drop-out rates, all due to a lack of a comprehensive Christian education program. (Proverbs 29:18; Hosea 4:6). These problems among the younger generation not only signal a troubling future for our society but they also create a tremendous economic burden on our economy. There is also a reason why the governments of this world enlist only young people for military service. They are more physically and mentally able to carry out the mission of that country. Older people are occupied with too many obligations like family, property, employment, health issues, preparation for retirement and financial responsibilities. Many of them are stubborn, set in their ways and have become hindrances of the ministry. These obligations and mind-sets would make it more difficult for them to fully focus on the mission of Jesus Christ. It is difficult to bend an old tree into a desired shape. The Apostle Paul said that it requires a certain amount of freedom to successfully perform the will of God.

1 Corinthians 7: 32-35

32 “I would like you to be free from all concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord's affairs—how he can please the Lord. 33But a married man is concerned about his commitments—how he can please his wife— 34Therefore, his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord's affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of her household—how she can better please her husband. 35I am giving you good and sound advice, not to restrict you, but that you may live with an undivided devotion to the Lord.”

Numbers 14:28-30

28 Say to them, ‘As I live,’ says the LORD, ‘just as you have spoken in My hearing, so I will do to you: 29 The carcasses of you who have complained against Me shall fall in this wilderness, all of you who were numbered, according to your entire number, from twenty years old and above. 30 Except for Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun, you shall by no means enter the land which I swore I would make you dwell in.

Even though God delivered the Israelites out of the land of Egypt, all of them did not make it to the Promised Land; not even Moses. God chose the younger generation, mainly Joshua, Caleb and all those who were under 20 years of age to fight for and enter into the Promised Land. The older Israelites were murmuring and complaining and failed to follow God’s commands. Thus, I believe that God will use our young people to initiate a massive worldwide spiritual revival in these last days.

We as church leaders (examples of Jesus Christ) should pay more attention to these facts and steer our resources towards empowering these younger disciples for God’s service. This is the age when they are struggling to find their identity. Do not let negative influences define them. As leaders we should stop limiting these young people to pizza parties, pool parties, games, concerts, amusement parks and summer camps. They live in a real world with real issues that they have to solve when they get older. It is time for them to be spiritually prepared just as we are preparing them for the world of employment. If we do not use them, the devil will and has been very successful in doing so. They are not brainless, spineless empty heads looking for fun or for trouble. Governments of the world select men and women between the ages 18-25, to serve in the military forces with the trust and responsibility of protecting their countries using their strength, courage, skills, intellect and abilities to operate expensive and sophisticated technological equipments and weapons of war; technology that older people would struggle to master. This type of discipline could even start earlier in life through the cub scouts, boy scouts, ROTC, youth corps, and youth exchange programs across the world. (1 Timothy 4:12 -Let no man underestimate you because you are young; but be an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity). These young people are also disciples chosen by God to reach the unsaved. Do not limit the power of the Holy Spirit to use them. As teenage disciples, my peers and I did not falter academically because of our active involvement with God’s work. As a matter of fact, we superseded our non-Christian peers in academic affairs while reaching countless numbers for Christ. I know that many parents are concerned about their children’s future and would prefer them to be prepared for a lucrative future in medicine, law, education, business, etc. God is the one who through trust and prayers, has to protect and secure our children’s future. He just wants them to live right, be good examples, and share His gospel wherever they go. There are many missionaries that are doctors, nurses, dentists, lawyers, athletes, entertainers, business owners, and trades-persons. This is not a plea for them to quit their career plans, but to secure and enhance it. In other words: “I believe that if we could influence everyone around us to think and be Christ-like as we are striving to be, the world around us would be a much better place.”

Empowering young disciples to serve God meaningfully would significantly reduce the statistics of crime, gang affiliation, drugs, high school dropout, and irresponsible sexual habits which often lead to pregnancy, birth defects and STDs. Empowerment will lift the overall self-esteem of young people. Many of my peers of that time period, including myself are still actively serving God today. My father, Evangelist Frederick James, had been a catalyst of ministry among the teenagers and young adults in Guyana, the Caribbean and the USA. He made sure that every young Christian acquired the ability to minister the gospel of Christ. His two favorite scriptures were:

1.        Proverbs 11:30

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.”

2.        All of St. John 15, but he always placed emphasis on 8 & 16.

8“Herein is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit; so shall you be my disciples”.

16“You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you”.

We should not restrict their willingness and abilities to serve God. In Joel 2:28 it states… “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions”. It would be difficult and unfruitful for someone with a God-given vision to sit under or be controlled by a church leader who does not share or agree with the same vision.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore. What He did for Guyana’s youth in my day, He could do for America’s youth today and even for the rest of the world. Many of us have had successful careers while sharing the gospel. We just have to ask God for the wisdom to make it possible, and He will. In Matthew 10:16 Jesus said to his disciples; “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the middle of wolves: be you therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.”

We all envisioned Daniel to be an old bearded man, but he was a young man along with the three Hebrew boys. Jeremiah was also a young man. Esther was virgin (12 to 14 years old) when she was selected to be queen. They all were teenagers. They were the king’s special selection, and they worked in His secular administration. They experienced favor from God and the kings.

Let us read how these four Hebrew boys and also Jeremiah stood up against adversity even when the stakes were very high. It seemed like the trade off for disobeying God was a special place in the king’s palace for the four Hebrew boys but their obedience to God still secured those positions for them.

Read Daniel chapter 1

1 In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 And the Lord delivered Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, along with some of the articles from the temple of God. These he carried off to the temple of his god in Babylonia and put in the treasure house of his god.  3 Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring in some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility- 4 young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. 5 The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king's table. They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king's service.  6 Among these were some from Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. 7 The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego.  8 But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. 9 Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel, 10 but the official told Daniel, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has assigned your food and drink. Why should he see you looking worse than the other young men your age? The king would then have my head because of you."  11 Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, 12 "Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see." 14 So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days.  15 At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. 16 So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead.  17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.  18 At the end of the time set by the king to bring them in, the chief official presented them to Nebuchadnezzar. 19 The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service. 20 In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom…

Daniel 2:48-49

48 Then the king promoted Daniel and gave him many great gifts; and he made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief administrator over all the wise men of Babylon. 49 Also Daniel petitioned the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego over the affairs of the province of Babylon; but Daniel sat in the gate of the king.

Jeremiah 1: 4-8

4Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, 5Before I formed you in the belly I knew you; and before you came out of the womb I sanctified you, and I ordained you a prophet unto the nations.

6Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.  7But the LORD said unto me, do not say, I am a child: for you shall go to all that I shall send you, and you will speak whatsoever I command you to say.  8Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with you to deliver you, said the LORD.

Ecclesiastes 12

1 Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, “ I have no pleasure in them”; 2 While the sun and the light, the moon and the stars, are not darkened, and the clouds do not return after the rain; 3 In the day when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men bow down; when the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look through the windows grow dim; …

God is calling on this new generation to stand up and challenge the status quo in order to bring deliverance to this lost generation in whose hands the future of this world sits. It is time to move forward to the next level, move past our obstacles, and secure our future. While the church is focusing on blessings, money, control, positions, power, and selfish ambitions, our children who are our future leaders, are trying to find their place in society alone with the help of the devil. They make up a very large percent of the behavioral problems that exist in our educational and correctional institutions today. The Gospel exists today to change lives from the greatest to the least; it is our responsibility to reach them and make disciples of them.

Matthew 18:1-6

1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”

2 Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, 3 and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.  5And whoever receives one such little child in my name receives me. 6But whoever shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it would be better for him that a millstone (130 lbs) were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

Verse 6 also suggests that God is going to heavily judge the unrepentant men and women who sexually abused or took advantage of children; or led them towards drugs, alcohol, prostitution, disrespect, hate, and other destructive behaviors. These include parents and guardians who hinder children from going to church especially if they have a desire to learn more about God.

Jesus Prepares for Service

Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah are Jewish coming of age rituals. According to Jewish law, when Jewish children reach 13 years of age, they become responsible for their actions, and "become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, [English: Son (Bar) or Daughter (Bat)] of commandment. In Orthodox communities, a Bat Mitzvah is celebrated when a girl reaches the age of 12. In addition to being considered responsible for their actions from a religious perspective, they may lead prayer and other religious services for the community. The age of B'nai Mitzvah was selected because it roughly coincides with physical puberty. Prior to a child reaching Bar or Bat Mitzvah, the child's parents hold the responsibility for the child's adherence to Jewish law and tradition. After this age, children bear their own responsibility for Jewish ritual law, tradition, and ethics and are privileged to participate in all areas of Jewish community life. The Bar Mitzvah ceremony involves the young man or woman being called to read the Torah, a Haftarah portion, or both at a Shabbat or other service when the Torah is read, and it may also involve giving a d'var Torah, a discussion of that week's Torah portion.

Those Jewish young people were trained to be disciples and ministers of the Word of God that was spoken by Moses from the time they were weaned (about 3 yrs old) from their mothers (1 Samuel 1: 22-24). They had to learn everything they needed to know about God and adulthood by the age of twelve.  They stood at the same podium in the temples with all the other adult Jews, and age was not a factor. They were not given a separate building or special hour for services. At the age of twelve or thirteen they were not labeled as teenagers, but adults; and they were not isolated. They all participated in the same services.

Responsibilities

Whoever becomes Bar or Bat Mitzvah has the responsibilities of an adult Jew under Jewish law. These include:

        Moral responsibility for their own actions

        Eligibility to be called to read from the Torah and participate in a Minyan (prayer service)

        May possess personal property

        May be legally married according to Jewish law

        Must follow the 613 laws of the Torah (First 5 books of the Bible)

Preparation and Study

In many Jewish congregations, the years leading up to a Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration are spent preparing for the event. They require teens to attend a minimum number of Shabbat prayer services at the synagogue, to attend Hebrew School, take on a charity or community service project, and to maintain membership in good standing with the synagogue. The early life of Christ served as a good example of this system.

Luke 2: 39-51

The Family Returns to Nazareth

39 So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. 40 And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.

The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars

42 And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. 43 When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; 44 but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. 45 So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. 46 Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors and teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. 48 So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.” 49 And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” 50 But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them. 51 Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Isaiah 11:5-6

5 Righteousness shall be the belt of His loins, and faithfulness the belt of His waist. 6 “The wolf also shall

dwell with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.

1 Samuel 3: 1

And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision.

Read 1 Samuel chapters 1, 2 & 3; 2 Kings 2:1

This type of mindset about young people (young adults) still exists in the Middle Eastern, African, and Asian nations; that is why it is sometimes difficult to convert the people of these other religions to Christianity. They were taught and molded since they were weaned. Since most of the Christian countries have raised the ages of adulthood to between 18 to 22 years old, it seems as if our children should have be more than prepared for discipleship and the adult world. They are our future. They will be responsible for the economic health of our societies, and the spreading and living of the Gospel of Jesus Christ when we depart this earth. In my assessment, we may have failed them, and perhaps we ourselves were not taught. God is calling on us to re-visit our Christian foundational principles. Truthfully speaking, we are struggling with adults (our teenagers) who were never taught the principles of adulthood. I am now beginning to understand the meaning the scriptures listed below.

Psalm 127:3- Children are a heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

Proverbs 22:6

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.

Matthew 18:6

6But whoever shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it would be better for him that a millstone (130 lbs) were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

Mark 10:13-15

13 Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”

Ephesians 6:4

And, you fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Colossians 3:21

Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

Proverbs 22:15

Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; the rod of correction will drive it far from him.

Proverbs 23:13

Do not withhold correction from a child, for if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.

Ecclesiastes 12:1

Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come,

and the years draw near when you say, “I have no pleasure in them”:

According to psychologists, when a child is born, that child’s brain could be compared to a new computer. It has an enormous capacity and is eager to absorb everything and anything around it, both good and bad. Whatever and however the child is taught will significantly influence the way that child develops. Everyone who works with children has an awesome responsibility for the future of those children. The activities they are involved in from birth to 12 yrs old could determine their future language skills, their problem solving skills, and their critical thinking skills.

Let us now compare two kings in the Old Testament who started to reign at the ages of eight. They both had to incorporate their problem solving and critical thinking skills to lead God’s people. They both knew how to distinguish between good and evil but had to make their own choices.

2 Chronicles 36:9-10

9 Jehoiachin was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months and ten days. And he did evil in the sight of the LORD. 10 At the turn of the year King Nebuchadnezzar summoned him and took him to Babylon, with the costly articles from the house of the LORD, and made Zedekiah, Jehoiakim’s brother, king over Judah and Jerusalem.

2 Chronicles 34: 1-3

1 Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned thirty-one years in Jerusalem. 2 And he did what was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. 3 For in the eighth year of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his father David; and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of the high places, the wooden images, the carved images, and the molded images.

I do not believe that a rebellious young person should be conditioned to think that his negative attitudes and failures are due to bad parenting or missing parents, or lack of structure in the home, nor a dreadful community. He could use those comments as excuses to justify his repulsive behavior. Jesus came to mend the broken hearted and to bring deliverance to all who needs it. That is why no irresponsible person will escape the wrath of God. We all need to thank God for His grace that was expressed through Jesus Christ because in times past, He dealt harshly with rebellious children. Let us visit Deuteronomy 21: 18-21 and read the command God give to Moses concerning how rebellious children should be disciplined in order to remove rebelliousness from their communities.

2Kings 2: 23-24

23 Then Elijah went up from there to Bethel; and as he was going up the road, some children came from the city and mocked him, and said to him, “Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!” 24 So he turned around and looked at them, and pronounced a curse on them in the name of the LORD. And two female bears came out of the woods and attacked and mauled forty-two of the children.

Deuteronomy 21: 18-21

18 “If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who will not obey the voice of his father or the voice of his mother, and who, when they have chastened him, will not heed them, 19 then his father and his mother shall take hold of him and bring him out to the elders of his city, to the gate of his city. 20 And they shall say to the elders of his city, ‘This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious; he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton and a drunkard.’ 21 Then all the men of his city shall stone him to death with stones; so you shall put away the evil from among you, and all Israel shall hear and fear.

Psalm 68:4-6

4 Sing to God, sing praises to His name; extol Him who rides on the clouds, By His name YAH, and rejoice before Him. 5 a father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy habitation. 6 God sets the solitary in families; He brings out those who are bound into prosperity; but the rebellious dwell in a dry land.

I also firmly believe that God will use younger people to bring about the much needed revival among the nations of this world. Do not overlook their importance to God and their future contributions to this world, and do not stand in the way of God’s direction for their lives. Christian Discipleship should start at an early age if possible. Children of ungodly parents should be influenced by Christian children and not the reverse.

The number 12 seems vitally important in the Bible. (That would be another interesting subject to study)

Words of Wisdom: Consider your outward appearances and general actions

Consider what you wear at all times. Most clothing lines, especially for females, are not designed by Christians. These designers are not thinking of you as being a part of a lucrative market. If you observe the fashion shows, each designer explains the purpose and goal of his/her design. Most of the designers and the clothing outlets cater to the sex-appeal market for a substantial profit. So, it would be difficult to be a witness to someone who thinks of you sexually because of what you are wearing. It could be a distraction. Some fashions that are worn comfortably today were only worn by prostitutes years ago. Some of those clothing designs are forbidden in many Eastern cultures and religions. Let us apply Godly wisdom to the way we physically appear before everyone, at all times. The world should not control the way we dress; even at the beach. That person that we offended today or caused to commit sin by lusting might be the same person you may have to witness to a few days from today.

Proverbs 7:9-11

9 In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night: 10 And, behold, there met him a woman with the clothes of a harlot (prostitute), and subtle of heart.  11 She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house:

1Timothy 2:8-10

8 I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; 9 in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10 but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.

1 Peter 3:2-4

2 when they observe your spotless conduct accompanied by fear (respect for God and people), 3 do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel, 4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the infinite beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God

A young single Christian female came to me one day for advice. She was frustrated because she could not get any of the Christian brothers from the church to assist her in fixing minor problems in her home or on her car without them making sexual overtures. I knew they were wrong to do so but after seeing what she was wearing, I seized the opportunity to ask her who first wore the type of attire she was wearing. She hesitated for a moment, and then answered quietly, “prostitutes I guess”. “Exactly”, I responded. “You are sending a mixed signal”. The way we dress will determine the type of response we receive from people. Consequently, the way a female dresses will determine the kind of man she attracts. Truthfully speaking, most of the clothing designers cater to the ‘sex appeal’ market. Therefore, as Christian disciples, let us consider our appearance and see that it does not hinder our testimony or witness. First impression seldom fades from a person’s memory. Once again, the person we caused to lust or offend might very well be the same person we may have to sing or witness to very soon after at a service sometime in the future. Not to be critical or extreme, but the Middle-easterners, Africans, and Asians do not seem to have any problems with fully clad clothing designs, and pornography is also illegal in many of those countries. Have you ever wondered why in North America and most European Nations a person could be almost naked anywhere, on the beach, or at swimming pools in the name of swimwear? However, I do foresee a very lucrative market for Christian clothing designers if they desire to explore the need for that market. Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and you are commanded to keep it Holy. The Spirit of God does not dwell in the church building, He dwells in our bodies.

I also believe that because most people are audio and visual learners, disciples should be careful with their conversations, attitudes and clothing at all times, especially among the unsaved. This means that our general actions and attitudes at school, work or play, should reflect who we really are, even when we are under pressure.

Ephesians 4:21-23

21 When you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus, 22 you were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds.

Hebrews 13:2 - Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Colossians 4:5-6

5 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside (the unsaved), redeeming the time. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.

Romans 14:21

It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Matthew 5:13-15

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world; a city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.

Revelation 18:3

For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.

1 Corinthians 6:17-19

17 But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him.18 Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. 19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?

1 Corinthians 7: 1-3

1 Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband.

Matthew 5:28

But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

Proverbs 6:32-33

32 Whoever commits adultery with a woman lacks understanding; He who does so destroys his own soul. 33 Wounds and dishonor he will get, And his reproach will not be wiped away.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17

16 Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17 If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.

1 Peter 2:7-9

Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient, “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone,”8 and “A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed. 9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

Section Five

Conclusion

God bless you in all your endeavors to become the disciples He wants you to be. Please be assured that many have walked this road successfully as Paul did (2Timothy 4: 7-8) and have experienced the bitter and the sweet (2 Corinthians 11:16-33). But most of all, they have experienced the greatness and goodness of God. He has kept all of His promises and will keep you if you exercise your faith and trust in Him. The fact is, whether you decide to be a disciple of Christ or not, you are one if you are born into the family of God. Either you accept it and be prepared, our deny Him, be defeated, and live a mediocre Christian life. That would be like joining the military in the midst of a war, not showing up for boot camp, then sitting down in the battlefield to play Klondike/solitaire; that person would have been dead before the game got started. We will still be accountable to Him for whatever our decision may be. Jesus said; “But whoever shall deny me before men, I will also deny before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:33; 25:1-13). You can deny Him by willfully rejecting His commands.

Jesus will be returning to this earth for us, and our rewards will be with Him. (Revelation 22:12) “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 states; it is written: “Eyes have not seen, nor ears heard, neither has it entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”(Keep His commandments).  Paul also noted in Romans 8:18; “I know that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Being a disciple does not mean that a person has to quit his job or family for fulltime service. It means that the disciple is now more aware of his or her mission and surroundings, and does his/her best to execute it expediently, efficiently and effectively with the limited time and resources that are available to him/her. Lastly, the complete gospel of Christ includes the changed and disciplined lifestyle, special promises, the Day of Judgment, and the punishment phase of those that reject the gospel. The bible constantly reminds us of all of these events.

Hebrews 9:27

“And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment”

2 Peter 2:9

“The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the ungodly unto the Day of Judgment to be punished”

Be sure to include these parts of the gospel when sharing it. Jesus and His disciples did. As in every situation, there are negative consequences for negative behaviors. People act responsibly when accountability is required of them. The final punishment for rejecting God, which is, a lake burning with fire and brimstone, is almost not a part of the Gospel of Christ that is being preached today. Truthfully speaking, a partial gospel is like no gospel at all. In the USA, punishments for crimes are posted everywhere for all of us to see as a reminder so that we could respect and obey the laws of this country. There are posted as deterrence to crime. That is the reason we sometimes pay fines or serve jail time for breaking these laws. The Bible explains in Romans 13 why the justice department was created and set up in our society today. Jesus has left directives for us to follow and we should obey them.

I would like to leave a few scriptures that have motivated me, and I also hope that these steps would clarify, prepare, and perfect you for His service. We are not perfect, but are striving for perfection. We all have our weaknesses and shortcomings but thank God for His mercy and grace, because we all make mistakes. Everyday that we wake up, God has granted us another opportunity to become better disciples, and to get closer to Him. Let us take heed to the warnings He gave us in Revelations chapter 2 & 3, and therefore “repent, and do the first works”. In other words, be true Christian disciples before Christ returns, or before we leave this earth.

Acts 17:30-31

30 Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now He commands all men everywhere to repent, 31 because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”

1 John 1:8-10

8If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  10If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

In Matthew chapter 10, He was able to call them together, empower them, and send them to do what they were called and trained to do. After He had trained them and saw them in action, He called them friends, which meant that they clearly understood His mission, and were going to work together with Him as a team, on the same page (John 13:15; 15: 15). Jesus was pleased that the training that he gave His disciples brought them up to His level, and that they could stand on their own with His anointing. He fulfilled a major part of His mission, that is, to “make disciples of them”.

Nothing pleases a teacher more than witnessing a student put into action everything he/she had taught that student. There is a sense of fulfillment to know that all of the objectives have been met, and that student could now assume the role of a teacher. After completing automotive certification, a person should be able to at least tune up a car. Therefore, sitting under any religious leader for many years and not being able to perform anything pertaining to the will of God is fruitless and a waste of precious time, energy and money.

Matthew 28:19-20

19 “Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:  20Teach them to observe all the things that I have commanded you to do: and do not worry, I will be with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

John 15:15

“From now on, I will not call you servants; for the servant does not know what his lord is doing: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard from my Father I have made known unto you.”

Luke 6: 40

The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.

Ephesians 4:11-13

11 “And he called some to be apostles; and prophets; and some, evangelists; and pastors (may have been added by theologians) and teachers; 12For the perfecting of the saints, the work of the ministry, and the edifying of the body of Christ: 13Untill we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Christ, unto a perfect man, obtaining the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”

Philippians 1:27

“Let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that, I may hear that you stood fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”

Revelation 21:8

“But the fearful, unbelieving, the abominable murderers, and whoremongers, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”

In order to fulfill the mandate of Jesus Christ, that is, to reach the world and make disciples, I humbly submit that today’s church leaders should fine-tune their titles to more fitting descriptions such as coordinators, directors, administrators, planners, etc, and begin reassigning responsibilities to the other disciples as per God-given gifts and abilities (1 Corinthians chapters 12 & 14). There should also be a depoliticalization of our religious organizations. This change would create an atmosphere of training, practice and preparation for every believer to fulfill his God-given purpose in this life, to reach the lost and build up the body as one in Christ (Ephesians 4), in obedience to the Word of God. No pastor has all the gifts (he is a feeder), neither does the prophet. Everyone is vital to the body of Christ and needs to exercise his gift. Speaking in tongues does not indicate that a Christian is hand-picked by God for His service, or is better than other Christians that do not. Love is the key element and motivator. Christ demonstrated unconditional love for His disciples and the people of the world by sharing His gifts and abilities without respect for any particular person.

1 Corinthians 3:12-13

12Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;  13Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.

John 14:12

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believes on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

Matthew 10:7-8

7 And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, and raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.

John 13:15 - For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.

1 Corinthians 11:1 - Paul said; “Be followers of me, even as I also am of Christ”.

Follow the Leader Game

First a leader or "head of the line" is chosen, and then all of the other players line up behind the leader. The leader then moves around and all the people have to mimic the leader's actions. All players who fail to do what the leader does are out of the game. The last person standing other than the leader becomes the new leader of the game.

Do you remember playing this game? To be able to follow Jesus means that we need to read, understand, and practice His teachings.

As church leaders (seasoned disciples), let us feed the flock (disciples) of God with only the words and instructions that God gave us that were spoken by Jesus Christ His Son. Jesus has set the example by feeding; instructing; and demonstrating to His disciples the commands and words given to Him by God and at His departure said that the Holy Spirit will remind us of His teachings. In Matthew 17:4-6, God interjected that the focus now is on Jesus and not on Moses, Elijah, or even Abraham.

Romans 11:5-6

5 Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace. 6 And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.

Ephesians 2:15

Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace.

God has given Jesus His Words for this period of grace. Let us not add any more to it or take away anything from it.

Deuteronomy 18: 18-19

18 I will raise up for them a Prophet like you from among their brethren, and will put My words in His mouth, and He shall speak to them all that I command Him. 19 And it shall be that whoever will not hear My words, which He speaks in My name, I will require it of him.

Ezekiel 34:23

And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd.

John 8:58

Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I Am.”

John 14:9-11

9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works. 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves.

John 12:48-50

48 He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. 49 For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. 50 And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”

John 14:26

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

John 17:8

8 For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me.

John 21:16

He said to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me? He said unto him, Yes, Lord; you know that I love you. He said unto him, Feed my sheep.

1 Peter 5:2

Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind.

John 7:15-17

15 And the Jews marveled, saying, “How does this Man know letters, having never studied?” 16 Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. 17 If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority.

2 John 1:8-10

8 Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for, but that we may receive a full reward. 9 Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him;

As I mentioned before, I am not passing judgment or condemnation on anyone, but to remind us all that it is time for the Disciples of Jesus Christ to get ready for His soon return. We have learned that judgment begins in the house of the Lord (1 Peter 4:17). We know that pretenders are among us and that the “wheat and tares” must grow together (Matthew 13:30). They both look identical but only one of them bears fruit (Galatians 5: 22-26). For this reason, the time will come when God will separate the “sheep from the goats” (Matthew 25:32). God also warned His flock in Ezekiel 34: 17 -23, that he was going judge between the good sheep and the bad sheep because the strong ones with bad attitudes were mistreating and taking advantage of the weak ones.

Ezekiel 34: 17 -22

17 "As for you, my flock, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will judge between one sheep and another, and between rams and goats. 18 Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? 19 Must my flock feed on what you have trampled and drink what you have muddied with your feet?  20 " Therefore, this is what the Sovereign Lord says to them: See, I myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep. 21 Because you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak sheep with your horns until you have driven them away, 22 I will save my flock, and they will no longer be plundered. I will judge between one sheep and another.

1 Peter 4:17

For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?

Matthew 13: 24-30

24 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; 25 but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. 26 But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. 27 So the servants of the owner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?’ 28 He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them up?’ 29 But he said, ‘No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”

Galatians 5: 22-26

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

2 Thessalonians 2: 1-4

1 Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.

Matthew 25:32

All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.

Remember, as disciples (we are all disciples), we train our co-workers. We teach and make them fellow disciples and not our subordinates. We strive mainly to build up the body of Christ and reach the lost; making them fellow disciples. Our main purpose is not to built exquisite buildings that cannot be transported to heaven or survive nature’s severe wrath, especially in the last days. People are more precious and valuable in God’s eyes than material things. That’s why Christ shed His blood for all mankind. He wanted to demonstrate His love for us, and to bring us redemption. We are not here to help someone build a family dynasty or religious empire, but to present the already prepared Kingdom of God to this lost world.

Stay humble, and may God richly bless you.

Remember, ‘Each One Should Reach At Least One’

"Lord, lay some soul upon my heart,

and love that soul thro' me.

And may I earnestly do my part

to win that soul for Thee."

(Author: Leon Tucker, 19th C.; Musician: Ira D. Sankey, 1840-1908)

A Christian (disciple) is a carbon copy of Christ (CCC)

May the Lord richly bless and keep you.

John 20:19-21

19 Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” 22 And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.

Stating Your Final Position

After carefully studying this book in its entirety, can you say whose disciple you are now?

Please indicate your (new) position below by placing an ‘X’ in the appropriate box.

Disciple of your church

Disciple of your bishop or pastor

Disciple of Jesus Christ

Remember; Titles that are assigned in the ministry indicate the disciples’ horizontal duties and not vertical positions. (1 Corinthians 12 & 14; Ephesians 4)

God is calling on church leaders and is pleading with us to make disciples and to “Let my people go”. They belong to Him and not us.

Jesus said in Matthew 7:13-15

13 “Enter in at the straight gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many will go there”. 14 “Because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads unto life and a few, will find it.” 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are predatory or greedy wolves”.

Luke 17:25-27

25 But first he must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.  26 “Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. 27 People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all.

Psalm 23

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

Let Us Re-visit Our Spiritual Foundation

Let Us Be Ready To Serve

My Commitment as a Christian

(Written by a young African pastor and tacked on the wall of his house.)

This article is public domain.

I'm part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have Holy Spirit power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I'm a disciple of His. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure. I'm finished with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap living, and dwarfed goals. I no longer need pre-eminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded. I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power. My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way rough, my companions few, my guide reliable, my mission clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity. I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, and preached up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me. And when He comes for His own, He will have no problems recognizing me - my banner will be clear!

OH! TO BE LIKE THEE

By Thomas O. Chisholm

O! to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer,

This is my constant longing and prayer;

Gladly I'll forfeit all of earth's treasures,

Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear.

Chorus

O! to be like Thee, O! to be like Thee,

Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art;

Come in Thy sweetness, come in Thy fullness

Stamp Thine own image deep in my heart.

O! to be like Thee, full of compassion,

Loving, forgiving, tender and kind,

Helping the helpless, cheering the fainting,

Seeking the wand'ring sinner to find.

O! to be like Thee, lowly in spirit,

Holy and harmless, patient and brave;

Meekly enduring cruel reproaches,

Willing to suffer, others to save.

O! to be like Thee, Lord, I am coming,

Now to receive th'anointing divine,

All that I am and have I am bringing,

Lord, from the moment all shall be Thine.

O! to be like Thee, while I am pleading,

Pour out Thy Spirit, fill with Thy love,

Make me a temple meet for Thy dwelling,

Fit me for life and Heaven above.

Glossary

It is understood that some words have several meanings according to the settings they are used in. Therefore, the meanings of these words listed below are based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, His parables, the way He walked with His disciples and the structure in which He organized His church. These meanings will also expose some of the contradictions and misquotations of His teachings that exist in the church today.

Anointing – This signifies dedication, qualification, and even endowment with charismatic qualities for the office and function as vessels for the divine service.

Apostle - A missionary or disciple that was sent out to evangelize new areas (Acts chaps.13; 15; 18)

Bishop - An overseer, coordinator, chairperson, organizer, etc (1 Corinthians 14; 1 Peter 5: 1-3)

Christ – The Anointed One

Christian – A follower of Jesus Christ

Christian Disciple – A Christian disciple is a person who accepts, follows, and assists in the dispersing of the good news and doctrine of Jesus Christ.

Deacon - An appointed or elected disciple having variously defined duties (1 Timothy 3:13). Some translations used the title, “Levites” or “servants”.

Disciple - A disciple is a disciplined follower; one who accepts, follows, and assists in spreading the doctrines of another.

Elder - Seasoned or mature disciple (not necessarily by years, but by experience) 1 Timothy 3

Evangelist - Preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 4:5)

Leader - A person that sets an example for others to follow; model (John 14:12; 1 Peer 2:21; 5:3)

Pastor – Shepherd; Feeder or teacher; from the pasture with feed already provided by God through Jesus Christ (Jeremiah 3:15; 23:4). To feed the people of God with His word does not necessarily require a church building, even though it may help more on a collective basis. It could also be done one-on-one by those within the body who have the gifts and abilities to feed. Some ministries use the title “leading elder” instead of “pastor”.

Prophet - Person who speaks by divine inspiration, revealing the will of God (2 Peter 1:21)

Spiritual Gifts – These are gifts that are bestowed on Christians by God the Holy Spirit, given for the strengthening of the Church. These gifts are not to be confused with talents or skills, but are considered supernatural - beyond human capabilities. (1 Corinthians 12)

Teacher - A person who teaches, feeds with knowledge, or instructs, (Romans 15:14)

Usher – A person who is employed to escort people to their seats, as in a theater, church, or stadium. (James 2)

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Adoration - A profound love or regard for someone; an act of religion offered to God in acknowledgment of His supreme perfection and dominion, and our dependence on Him.

Adultery - Voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and a partner other than the lawful spouse.

All – Every single one; entire.

Anger - An emotion related to one's psychological interpretation of having been offended, wronged or denied, and a tendency to get even by retaliation.

Autocracy – A government or system in which one person has uncontrolled or unlimited authority over others; the government or power of an absolute monarch.

Captive - A prisoner; a person who is enslaved or dominated; “slave to sin”

Change - A transformation or transition from one state, condition, or phase to another.

Cleanse – To make something free from unpleasantness: to free a place, person, or society from something wrong, unwelcome, from sin, or guilt.

Commitment - The state of being bound emotionally or intellectually to a course of action or to another person or persons.

Crusade – A movement or organized effort to accomplish a purpose.

Deliverance - Rescue from bondage, confinement or danger.

Deny - To declare untrue; contradict; To refuse to believe, reject, turn down; To refuse to recognize or acknowledge.

Dictator - A ruler who is not effectively restricted by a constitution, laws, or recognized opposition, and behaves in an authoritarian or tyrannical manner.

Dictatorship - A country, system, or the form of government in which absolute power is exercised by a dictator.

Enemy – Opponent; rival

Follow - To go after, to go behind, or take place after another person or thing in order or time, to tag along, tag on, pursue, copy or imitate, chase, trail.

Fornication - Consensual sexual intercourse between two persons not married to each other

Freedom - Liberty of the person from slavery, detention, or oppression.

- Free from an unpleasant or burdensome condition (sin); freedom from want.

- The capacity to exercise choice; free will.

Friends – Associates; contacts; acquaintances; connections

Gospel – The account and good news of Jesus Christ

Hate - A deep and emotional extreme dislike, directed against a certain object or class of objects.

Hierarchy - A ruling body of clergy organized into orders or ranks each subordinate to the one above it; especially the bishops of a province or nation.

Joy - feelings of great happiness or pleasure

Justification – To justify; to prove right; to defend.

Kingdom of God - the spiritual realm over which God reigns as king.

Love - A deep, tender, ineffable feeling of affection and attentiveness toward a person, such as that arising from kinship, recognition of attractive qualities, or a sense of underlying oneness. (American Heritage Dictionary)

Metaphor - A figure of speech in which an implied comparison is made between two unlike things that actually have something in common.

Nicolaitans - The meaning of the name, "victors over the people" or "rulers over the world" suggests to some of these authors that the Nicolaitans were among those who maintained that there must be a religious hierarchy to control the spiritual development of the common people; it is believed they were trying to set themselves up as priests in a two-class system – one that would give them absolute control over the laity (common people), who would be completely dependent upon them for all spiritual knowledge, guidance, and access to God. (Revelations 2:6, 15)

Oligarchy - A form of government or system in which all power is vested in a few persons or in a dominant class or clique; government by the few, especially by a small faction of persons or families. This small group could exercise control especially for corrupt and selfish purposes.

Oligopoly - A situation in which a particular market is controlled by a small group of firms. It is much like a monopoly, in which only one company exerts control over most of a market. In an oligopoly, there are at least two firms controlling the market.

Peace - A state of harmony characterized by the lack of violent conflict or hostility.

Power - The ability or official capacity to exercise control; authority.

- The ability or capacity to perform or act effectively.

Praise - the act of expressing approval or admiration; commendation; laudation; the offering of grateful homage in words or song, as an act of worship.

Prophecy - A message of divine truth revealing God's will; the foretelling or prediction of what is to come.

Prophesy (verb) - To speak as a mediator between God and humankind or in God's stead.

Prune – Removal of the dead leaves and branches.

Pure, purify, purification - To free from sin, guilt, impurities, pollutes, adulterates, contaminates, or other defilement.

Purge – To thoroughly clean something.

Revival - A restoration or reawakening of religious faith, after a period of darkness, stillness or death.

Salvation - Preservation or deliverance from destruction, difficulty, or evil.

- Deliverance from the power or penalty of sin; redemption.

- The agent or means that brings about such deliverance.

Saved – Set aside from destruction

Sanctification - To make holy; to free from sin; purify; to set apart

Tyranny – A government or system in which a single ruler is vested with absolute power, especially when exercised unjustly or cruelly.

Worship - An act of religious devotion usually directed to one or more gods.