In this study we hope to learn to be better disciples of Jesus Christ. Over the next 11 weeks we will cover things like: What is a disciple, How do I become a disciple, How do I know I am a disciple, what are the pros and cons of discipleship and much more. We will follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance, use the Word of God (our Bibles) and interact with each other to learn about discipleship. There will be lots of questions to spark discussions so please feel free to jump in with your responses.  So, let’s get started!

WHAT IS A DISCIPLE?

In your own words, what is your definition of a disciple?

Is Jesus the only person that has disciples? (Matt 10:24-25; Mark 2:18) Can you think of other examples within or outside of the Bible? Please share.

This brings up the question, are YOU a disciple of Jesus Christ? Can anyone be a disciple of Jesus? Jesus said in Luke 14:26-27, 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. 27 And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.

(Also Luke 14:33; Matt 16:24)

Let’s look at the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17-22, 17 Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” 18 So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’ ” 20 And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.” 21 Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” 22 But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

Was the rich young ruler a disciple of Jesus Christ, Why or Why not?

HOW CAN I BECOME A DISCIPLE?

Matthew 22:14 “For many are called, but few are chosen.” In Jesus time, Jesus called His disciples (Matt 4:18-22; Mark 2:14). 

Not everyone was allowed to be disciples, WHY NOT? (Mark 5:18-19)

Today the Lord still calls His disciples and  all who accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior are disciples of Jesus Christ! 

Ephesians 1:4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love

2 Thessalonians 2:13 But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth

So, I will ask again, are YOU a disciple of Jesus Christ?

WHY BE A DISCIPLE OF JESUS CHRIST?

Mark 10:29-31  So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, 30 who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” 

Think of a few ways being a disciple of Jesus Christ will help you today and what does being a disciple give you? (Please share) Here are some scriptures to help you or come up with your own.  (John 3:16; John 14:6; John 6:68; Matt 11:28)

NEXT WEEK: 

1. Am I a fan or disciple?
2. How do I know I am a disciple of Jesus Christ?
3. What does a disciple look like?