| Summer 2003 | |
RENDEZVOUS | |
Discipleship--What Does It Look Like?by Paul Skoglund, Superior Community ChurchIn the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. (2 Timothy 2:2, NIV)I think of how I have been, and still very much am being, discipled. Hebrews 13:7 (NIV) says "Remember your leaders, who spoke the Word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith." I recall how others have taken the time to come alongside me to encourage, teach, correct, and pick me up when I stumble. 2 Timothy 4:2 (NIV) says, "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction."Each day I pray for a greater understanding of the Word of God. The things of value that have been accomplished have only been done so by God, through submission and obedience to Him. But not without me fighting against the "My way" mentality. I have been involved with youth work in Superior since 1996. I am so thankful to God for allowing me the privilege of working with young people. These young adults see through the masks we all try to wear on some occasions. You have to be transparent, real, you need to be available, and love them. They need accountability, instruction, edification, praise, and challenge. Bible studies are great; church is great; conferences are great. Retreats, camps, events—all are vital for continual growth in the knowledge of our King. We fill ourselves with knowledge, passion, and zeal. We need to take that enthusiasm to the street. The youth in Superior have caught a vision for the lost in our town. They have stepped up to the challenge of leadership in many aspects: Friday morning prayer in school, Junior and Senior High worship teams, multiple Bible studies, and participation in helping throughout the community. A true disciple will:
"Discipleship is being in right relationship to Christ, and living on a daily basis in dependence on Him, and in obedience to His Word" (BTCP Course, Personal Spiritual Life) The world offers many distractions for all believers. Are we really interested in discipling others? Then we must prioritize are own lives in a manner that keeps our focus on Christ. My prayer is this: to see people through the eyes of Jesus, and to feel the pain and sorrow He has for those suffering without Him. This has brought about a desire to stretch my faith and that of the youth. | |
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