In Matthew 8:18-22 Jesus
“defines the relationship” with two aspiring followers. The first, a scribe,
too quickly wants to declare himself a follower without adequately counting the
cost of discipleship. The second is too hesitant to make commitment necessary
to be Jesus’ disciple. What does this passage teach you about the nature of
discipleship?
Read
Luke 9:21-27. How does Jesus define the relationship He wants to have with us
in verse 23?
From
Sunday’s message, Would Be Disciples, look
back over Jay Adam’s “Five Elements of Commitment.” How do you define your
relationship with Jesus?
1.
Understanding what one is committing himself to.
2. A
desire to do it.
3.
The ability, skills and resources to fulfill the commitment.
4.
Margin.
5.
Follow through.
Kyle
Idleman, in his book Not a Fan,
writes,
“Jesus was never interested in having fans. When He defines what kind
of relationship He wants, “Enthusiastic Admirer” isn’t an option. My concern is that many
of our churches in America have gone from being sanctuaries to becoming
stadiums. And every week all the fans come to the stadium where
they cheer for Jesus but have no interest in truly following Him. The biggest
threat to the church today is fans who call them-selves Christians but aren’t actually interested in following Christ. They want to
be close enough to Jesus to get all the benefits, but not so close that it
requires anything from them.”
How is the Holy Spirit leading
you to greater followership of Jesus?
This week read the Prologue and
chapters one, D.T.R. and two, a decision or commitment? in Kyle
Idleman’s book Not A Fan.
