There is one final discipleship proposal I’d like to put on the table (at least I think it’s the final); I call it seek & find.
When I ponder how spiritual formation has happened over the course in my life with Jesus, the only clear, consistent commonality is a seeking heart. Scripture, books, sermons, programs, conferences, and mentors flow in and out of the picture, but the only thing I am sure always happens is a stirring from the Holy Spirit to seek Jesus further. When the seeking is there, I always find myself growing in one way or another.
So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. – Luke 11.9-10
The answer to discipleship is not a model, plan, or program, it’s all about responding to the promptings of the Holy Spirit with seeking; and eventually finding. In this regard, I propose another approach to discipleship in which individuals take it upon themselves to listen attentively to God (via Scripture, mentors, Holy Spirit guided intuition, etc…) and then gather with others to discuss and support one another in the what, when, and how of responding to what was heard.
This being said, I do not believe discipleship models and more detailed plans are the enemy. A good discipleship model has the ability to keep us on track with “seeking & finding” in those all too common seasons of drifting. I therefore invite you to revisit the other proposals I’ve put on the table, and contribute your thoughts on a working approach toward discipleship amongst those you serve.
3 responses so far ↓
brandon // June 18, 2008 at 9:41 am |
a nice summary of the discipleship models…
in reviewing past journals and attempting to compare what discipleship models have been most effective for my own spiritual growth, i’ve come to similiar conclusions. a sampler of those you’ve discussed have been good at one time another. it seems that finding a balance between ‘fresh ideas and a variety’ and ‘endurance and patience’ with these models is key.
Lumpy // June 19, 2008 at 12:41 pm |
I would suggest that first and foremost the answer is a “seeking heart.” I think most of us are too easily satisifed with where we are with following Jesus, and we need to return to seeking and following him.
After that, the models/direction are important.
mike // July 1, 2008 at 9:49 pm |
Yes I like this one! After spending 4 years studying Christian Philosophy, Existentialism, Ontology, Metaphysics, Theology, Church Dogma, and all those mindless questions such as “how many angels can sit on the head of a pin” I have come to the conclusion that Jesus is my Lord-the Son of God. This knowledge came to me not from studying in a formal classroom or a specific 12 step program but rather Revelation from the Holy Spirit.
I believe that God put the hunger in my heart to seek Him and I can take no credit. None. This is the way we meet every week at small group. We read the Word and invite/ask the Holy Spirit to show us what it means. We love questions and especially problems and circumstances that are to difficult to handle on our own. The love and concern for each other is genuine and prayerful. Sometimes we lay hands on the sick and sometimes a scripture comes forth to encourage. I believe the key to discipleship is a hungry-seeking heart often motivated by difficult circumstances. I thank G0d for the impossible and difficult problems that turn us back to Him. Most of us go to the doctor not to change our destructive ways but only for relief (take away my pain) and most of us approach God in the same manner. But once in a while someone hungry seeking person receives awareness/revelation from the Holy Spirit and they are never the same again. They are instantly a new creation. Wow! Amen.