Subject: INVITATION |
Bible Note: Dear Workman, Matt 28:16 But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. Matt 28:17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. Matt 28:18 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Matt 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, Matt 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." "Since Jesus instructed the apostles to make disciples, one needs to define the word disciple. In ancient Greek society the term disciple was used to describe a pupil or apprentice of a wise man. Disciples were seekers of knowledge and wisdom. In the Greek philosophical schools a disciple was a person who submitted himself to a gifted teacher. This discipling process involved a close relationship with and dependence upon the philosopher. The New Testament defines a disciple as a person who believes in Jesus Christ and then spends the rest of his or her life following the means of grace. Disciples must study God’s word and submit themselves to all the teachings of Christ. Because Jesus has delegated authority to ordained teaching servants, part of being a disciple involves joining a church and submitting to the elders of that church. “Obey those who rule over you and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account” (Heb. 13:17). Of course believers are only to submit to elders when they teach what Christ has commanded." Brian M. Schwertley As church members we must be mindful to pray earnestly for our leaders, for they bear a tremendous responsability. God Bless, Hopalong |