Following Jesus 78

Those who disciple are those who by teaching explain the truth of God. “Teaching them… (Matthew 28:20a).

 

Those who disciple are those who after being taught, observe and obey the truth they have been told. “…to observe all that I have commanded you.” Discipleship is also “…the obedience (agreement, respect, submission) to those teachings that promote the lifelong lifestyle of becoming ever more like Jesus (in my character), thereby bringing Him glory.” 

 

Observing means to presently and continuously watch over, guard, obey, protect, narrowly observe or keep God’s Word. What is the scope of this observance? Jesus says it succinctly: all that I have commanded you. Everything Jesus has commanded, His followers are to obey, guard and protect. This is in harmony with Jesus’ own perspective regarding the commandments of God.

 

Matthew 5:17-20. “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:17-20 ESV)

 

What are the costs of discipleship? The Scriptures indicate that there are many consequences to being a follower of Jesus and obeying His commandments. We will look at some of them next time.

 

Soli deo Gloria!