Being a disciple, Part 1
Matthew 11:28-30; 1 John 1
- Wednesday night we discussed the calling of the original 12 disciples
- We looked at the importance of going because you are called
- We also discussed Jesus already providing the way, so we are to simply follow
- Today begins a series on being a disciple; and what it takes to be called one
"Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart; and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)
Pray
Point 1 – The Foundation
- We live in a day in which people like to invent their own definition
- Being a disciple is not a title; but a way of life that exalts Jesus; NOT you
- Thankfully, God has provided us with the roadmap; and we only have to follow
- Because Jesus said it, because Jesus showed us, we can live FOR Him
- Consider what we have done to date for Christ – would He be proud?
- Now think of what we have done for ourselves – would Jesus approve?
- Being a disciple is not always popular; but it means that we give of ourselves
Point 2 – What does it take to become one?
- Jesus calls us to take His yoke upon us; to leave ours alone and take His
- First act of being a disciple is submission to the King of Kings
- Jesus is either Lord of all or not Lord at all; we do not get to choose
- Submission to Christ is the principle where we succeed or fail
- There is no middle ground (Lord of all …); He must take total control of us!!
- 1 John discusses being totally committed to Jesus (Go there)
-- v3: We proclaim what we have seen and heard; so that you may believe
-- v5: We cannot claim to be in the light and live in darkness; else we lie
-- v8: None of us is perfect; we all have sin and need to turn from it
-- v9: Being a disciple means that you accept your failure; and then confess
-- v10: Once again; we cannot lie to God, or to Christ – must be transparent
Conclusion
- Some try to invent their faith; some believe they are serving; but are they?
- Think of 1 John 1; and what it takes to be committed to being a disciple
- Invite singers … Every eye closed and every head bowed …
- Ask yourself: “Am I committed to Jesus Christ in every aspect of my life?”
- If the answer is “No”; you have work to do – don’t wait to get right with the Lord
- If you want to be honest with God (since He already knows), you will deal with your sin and leave it here at the altar – Let Christ be Lord, and be submissive!
