Читать книгу Christianese 101 - David S. Smith - Страница 6

Someone who accepts and helps to spread the teachings of a famous person.

When I think of the word “disciple”, the mental image is one that usually includes ancient near eastern men that were called from their occupations to follow Jesus Christ and who later were responsible for the spreading of his message around the world. With that in mind, the definition above may be offensive at first to long time churchgoers but in context, it fits pretty well.

I think it is to note that the mental image described above is often used to disqualify us from being disciples. We are obviously not Peter, James or John. Our impact on the world and individual’s lives will never be as great as theirs, will it? The answer to that question may be yes or no, but we will never know until we do what they did and share the teachings of Jesus with others. The original disciples were in no way perfect people. They were people who met Jesus, learned from him and shared what they were taught. As others heard the teachings of Jesus, they were given an opportunity to make a decision to do the same; follow and share.

As you go about your day, you have many opportunities to share what God has done in your life. You can share how the teachings or example of Jesus have impacted you to be different or better. The bible and the church call this your testimony. Share it with others and see what God does. Not everyone will be as excited about what God is doing in your life as you are, but that’s normal. Not everyone likes your favorite flavor of ice cream as much as you do either. It isn’t your job to force your views on others. That’s the work of the Holy Spirit. Just be yourself. Share your story and watch God work in other people’s lives.

Prayer: God, thank you for the work you are doing and have already done in my life. I am so appreciative and so excited about it! Help me to get over the fear of sharing it with others whenever that feeling pops up. Help me to understand that me sharing my story could very well be what prompts others submit to you as I have, but don’t ever let me take on that as personal pressure or as my own work. Free me to share and let me watch your hand through those words. I love you and thank you for loving and changing me. You are a wonderful God. Amen.

Scripture: Luke 14:27; John 13:35; John 15:8