Affect Your World
26th MAY 2024
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” [Matthew 28:19–20 NIV]
We are Christians because we put our faith in Jesus. He is the only means of salvation. There’s no Christianity without Jesus. The Bible’s concept of a disciple is someone who is ready to learn and emulate their master. Jesus came to raise people who would learn from Him and follow His example.
Throughout His ministry, Jesus often addressed His disciples directly, even when the crowds were present. This distinction highlights two types of followers: those who are simply part of the crowd and those who are committed disciples. How do you know you’re a disciple?
A disciple is someone who has a master, a disciple-maker, overseeing their growth and ensuring they follow their teachings.
It takes disciples to affect your world, not the crowd. Jesus sent His disciples into the world to make a difference, not the crowd. The crowd might be curious or even enthusiastic, but it’s the disciples who are dedicated to transformation. Disciples are those who internalize the teachings of Jesus and apply them in their daily lives, influencing those around them. Consider the impact of the early disciples. These were ordinary people who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, turned the world upside down. They preached the Gospel, healed the sick, and lived out the love and truth of Jesus Christ. Their commitment and willingness to sacrifice, even to the point of death, set them apart from the crowd.
Similarly, it’s not the churches that change the world; it’s the disciples within those churches who bring about change. Disciples are willing to lay down their lives for the truth, just as Jesus laid down His life for the world. They are the hands and feet of Jesus, bringing His message of hope and salvation to a hurting world.
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to show us true discipleship. Help me move beyond the crowd and become a committed disciple. Give me the courage to learn from You, follow Your teachings, and make a difference. Fill me with Your Spirit to live out Your truth and love daily. Strengthen my faith and let my life testify to Your grace. Amen.
Further Reading: Luke 10:1–2
Bible In One Year: Job [37–40]
