“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;
and you will be my witnesses…” Acts 1:8a
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Discipleship is a word which is used regularly in the church, but do we even know what it means? We talk regularly about Jesus’ “disciples” and we focus on their journey with Christ as they followed him, learned from him, and consequently became leaders in the church. When using the word “disciple” we are safe for we put it in the context of the Bible, but do you realize that the word “disciple” refers to YOU? This is true! You are a disciple.
In the scriptures the word means “learner” or “student,” but along with the noun comes the verb. It is a word that not only designates WHO we are but HOW we live. We are to “disciple” or “teach” others and we are to live as Christ teaches us to live. We ARE disciples, followers of Christ in word and action.
The problem arises when we do not immerse ourselves in the teachings and life of Christ. If one is in school, but doesn’t go to class, rarely feels the assignments are important, never listens to the teacher for instructions, or feels that the class is unimportant what is the outcome? Typically, one can see that the class holds little or no importance in the life of the student and is basically inane (absurd or ridiculous). There is no “living out” of what was learned, for nothing was really “learned,” and if this is the case, then basically one is putting in time for naught, there is no COMMITMENT, UNDERSTANDING or JOY in the class. Often, the students who don’t participate, learn, listen, or study, either don’t pass OR their grades are the lowest of levels… D.
How different is it when we are to be students of Christ and of the scriptures? When we say we are Christians it hopefully means we are taking seriously the fact that we are to be about learning, growing, reaching out and living as Christ calls us to live. We need some COMMITMENT to following our Lord, who has filled us with his Spirit and is there to strengthen our faith. In what way are you participating in the strengthening of your walk with Christ? It what way can participation in some events at Bethel help?
Discipleship begins when we are children, learning from our parents and grandparents, attending Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. In Lutheranism we continue with the confirmation program and then there is the move to ADULT learning and serving in the church. This happens in worship, Bible Study, home devotionals, retreats, teaching others in Sunday School or VBS, and participating in different servant outreach programs.
As disciples of Christ we never “graduate”, but we are continually growing and changing. So, to find ways you can connect in with Christ’s ministry at Bethel can be a help.
I would love to invite you and your children and grandchildren to participate in our VBS Retreat, June 21–23. There will be a Bible Study opportunity for people of ALL ages and we will have a great time. We will begin with a cookout and campfire… what more do I need to say! (other than SMORES!!) It won’t require much time, but our hope is for renewal of your faith and fellowship time with others. Read further in our newsletter.
In Christ,
Pastor Barb
Leave a Reply