Green Bridge Learning Resource For Discipleship

Overview

Discipleship in Christianity

Discipleship, an integral aspect of Christian life, encompasses both the call to follow Jesus and the commitment to live according to His teachings. In the four Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, the theme of discipleship is prominently portrayed through various narratives, teachings, and interactions with Jesus and His followers. One of the central elements of discipleship is the call of the first disciples, where individuals like Peter, Andrew, James, and John responded to Jesus' invitation to follow Him. This marked the beginning of their journey as followers of Christ.

The Call of the First Disciples

One of the key subtopics under discipleship is the account of Jesus calling His initial followers. In Matthew 4:18-22, we witness the calling of Peter and Andrew, fishermen by trade, who were summoned by Jesus to become "fishers of men." Similarly, in Luke 5:1-11, Jesus calls Peter, James, and John after a miraculous catch of fish, demonstrating His authority and power. These events highlight the importance of responding to Jesus' call promptly and willingly, showing a readiness to leave behind their former lives to embrace a new purpose as His disciples.

The Demands of Discipleship

As individuals committed to following Jesus, disciples are called to a high standard of dedication and sacrifice. The demands of discipleship, as outlined in passages like Matthew 8:19-22 and Luke 14:25-33, emphasize the need for wholehearted commitment to Christ above all else. Jesus challenges His followers to prioritize Him over family relationships, possessions, and even their own lives, illustrating the radical nature of true discipleship. This aspect of discipleship underscores the cost of following Jesus and the willingness to forsake everything for the sake of the Kingdom.

Through studying the themes of discipleship in the Gospels and Acts, Christians gain insights into the essence of true discipleship – a journey of faith, obedience, and self-denial. By delving into the experiences of the first disciples and considering the demands laid out by Jesus Himself, believers are encouraged to reflect on their own commitment to following Christ and strive for a deeper relationship with Him.

Objectives

Determine The Demands Of Discipleship
Identify The First Disciples To Be Called By Jesus

Lesson Note

Discipleship is a key concept in Christianity, signifying a followership and commitment to Jesus Christ. At its core, discipleship means to learn from and follow the ways of Jesus. In the New Testament, a disciple is often described as someone who follows Jesus, learns from Him, and lives according to His teachings.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Discipleship. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

What are the names of the first disciples called by Jesus in the Gospels? A. Matthew and Luke B. Peter and John C. James and Philip D. Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, and John Answer: D. Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, and John
According to the Gospels, what are the demands of discipleship as outlined by Jesus? A. Fame and Wealth B. Comfort and Luxury C. Self-denial and Sacrifice D. Power and Control Answer: C. Self-denial and Sacrifice

Recommended Books

	The Cost of Discipleship Subtitle Illustrated Edition Publisher Simon & Schuster Year 1937 ISBN 9780684815008
	Follow Me: A Call to Die. A Call to Live. Subtitle Special Edition Publisher David C. Cook Year 2013 ISBN 9781434705173