The Disciple's Calling

Disciple – follower, pupil or learner (tradesman apprentice)

Earnest desire to follow, to learn and do His will

Reproducing Christ's life:
character
purposes
principles
way

Mat 28:20

1.The crux of discipleship

A. Be light in a dark world – Mat 5:14-16

notice the word – city

individually in verse 15

B. Be salt in a decaying world -Mat 5:13/Mark 9:50

Preserving and flavouring foods

As the salt of the earth a believers Christ like life and testimony should serve to hinder moral corruption and decay in his surrounding community. (good judges)

It should also enhance the flavour of his own life and of other believers lives as he encourages them in their walk with the Lord.

We must must maintain our distinctive savour or saltiness to be of any value. Note the warning in verse 13/50

Read Col 4:6

2.The challenge of discipleship

A. Be fishers of men for the Saviour – Matt 4:18

Andrew and Peter were followers in John 1:35-42 but now being called to active service

B. Be reapers in God's harvest – John 4:35-38, Mat 9:37-38 & John 15:16

It is the Lords harvest
We are commissioned to bring it in
Now is the time to work
Team work
We are to pray for more labourers

3.The criteria of discipleship

A. Deny yourself and put Christ first in everything – Luke 14:27, 33
B. Live continually in obedience to God's word – John 8:31-32
C. Demonstrate love for all believers – John 13:34-35
D. Bear fruit for God's glory – John 15:5, 8

All of the above are characteristics that are positive actions that must continue. If we do these we shall be His disciples – John 15:8

Warning Luke 14:33