Page 85 - Principles for Discipling Others-Student textbook

9. Disciples Must Count the Cost
Following Christ as His disciple means letting go of one’s own will and seeking the will of God in all things
(Luke 9:23). Nothing must take the place of Jesus as the “focus of allegiance,” as Wilkins explains.[4]

10. Discipleship is a Life-long Journey
In my own life, describing my faith and discipleship in terms of the journey metaphor has been vitally
important on many different levels. As I come to different forks in the road, or experience difficult trials,
knowing that Jesus is my trustworthy Master and Leader, is my sole comfort and motivation to continue
in this journey of faith. We must continue to realize and endeavor to endure the trials of faith that
come with renewed commitment to following Christ on a daily basis.

[1] Michael J. Wilkins, Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992), 40.
[2] Michael Glerup, “The Holy Spirit and Spiritual Formation,” in The Kingdom Life: A Practical Theology of Discipleship and
Spiritual Formation, ed. Alan Andrews (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2010), 251.
[3] Michael J. Wilkins, Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992), 133.
[4] Michael J. Wilkins, An Outline Study Guide to “Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship,” 69.

Uncharted Waters

II Cor.4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God,
and not of us.

This task of disciple-making is daunting! So few ever try it and fewer still become proficient in it.
Spiritual parenting is like a sailboat. It has no power of its own. It must be powered by the wind. In the
Bible, wind often speaks of God, the Holy Spirit. When the wind blows and the sailboats sails are set
properly, the vessel leaps into motion, carrying it toward the goal for which it is aimed. Likewise, the
Christian disciple-maker is as a powerless sailboat; but endued with the power of the Holy Spirit, God
can use him/her to help many a younger Christian grow in grace to become a bold and faithful witness
for the Lord Jesus Christ while here on earth! May God help us to guide many spiritually youthful
Christians to grow into strong adult spiritual parents, who can then be disciple-makers to their own
spiritual children!

16.4 Let’s Practice…

1. The first and foremost principle in discipleship is what, according to Colossians 1:28-29?

2. What is the means to discipleship? Please Explain

3. What are the goals of discipleship? Please Explain

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