The Impact of Discipleship by Jennifer Hamill
“Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age’” (Matthew 28:16-20).
What is it about discipleship that seems so difficult? Why are we afraid of walking life with those around us, teaching each other about the Word of God and holding each other accountable to obey all that God instructs us?
In all honesty, it is difficult because we often get caught up in busyness and distractions. And we are especially afraid of allowing others to truly know us: our strengths, our weaknesses, and everything else.
But the reality is, this statement about discipleship is the last commandment Jesus gave before ascending to the right hand of God’s throne. The timing leaves no doubt that this is an incredibly important instruction.
When we look at Jesus’ life, we discover that as He lived life among His disciples, He led simply and transparently. He did not hide Himself from them. He chose to spend quality time with them and help them carry out their specific purpose and calling. He was their friend. He was their counselor. He was their advocate. He simply allowed Himself to be known by them.
Jesus is the perfect example of what true discipleship is. His devotion to teaching these men, and even some women, how to truly obey the Word of God ignited a widespread sharing of the gospel that has lasted thousands of years.
Jesus’ life illustrated the foundational importance of discipleship. Since His final instructions to us also focus on making disciples, let us commit to being obedient in this space, even when it’s difficult.
Prayer:
Father, thank You so much for Your desire for all people to know You and to make Your name known. I ask right now that You would help me truly see the importance for carrying out this mission of making disciples and teaching them all You have instructed. Please help me be a faithful disciple and lead me to those You would have me disciple.
Dig deeper:
“You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:1-2).
Reflection Questions:
1. Has God placed anyone in your life to disciple you through the teaching of His Word so that you can better walk in obedience?
2. Based on the scriptures you have read, what has God revealed to you about the importance of discipleship? Has He revealed anyone to you, who is already in your sphere of influence, whom you can disciple?
About Jennifer Hamill
Jennifer Hamill lives in the suburbs of Atlanta. Over the years, she has had had the opportunity to work with various populations for work and ministry. It has been through these experiences that she has seen a need for women of all ages to understand their true identity as a child of God in order to experience the promised abundant life and freedom. By working as a Biblical Life Coach and Writer, she focuses on helping others discover who Jesus is and how to carry out their specific purpose and calling in building His Kingdom.
