Convert or Disciple? Matthew 28:18-20

Pause for thought

A disciple is “ One who learns from another” in the secular Greek world ‘mathetes’ was used to describe an apprentice to a tradesman. A disciple was expected to imitate their teacher. This is what Paul meant when he said “ you are to imitate me, as I imitate Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1.

How many times have you heard it said “ we are not told to go and make converts, we are told to go and make disciples” Some Christians have a better start in their new life in Christ than others, We thank God for those who discipled us and continue to do so, who encouraged us to read our bibles, pray, seek Christian fellowship and to go on being filled with the Holy Spirit every day. We have heard sermons about how Christ helps break bad habit patterns, but perhaps not so many about how to create good spiritual habit patterns.

The first few weeks are crucial for new Christians, they have been regenerated by and received the Holy Spirit, and this is when they need the encouragement, and example, of their fellow disciples of Jesus. It’s often noted that at some well known evangelistic events many who came forward to receive Christ quickly fall away? no doubt some were never born again, but I often wonder what happened to the others? I think Jesus tells us in the parable of the sower Matthew 13:3.

Every Christian is called to be a disciple of Jesus and this means they will follow Jesus and put the claims of Jesus first in their lives, regardless of the cost to themselves. So a Christian disciple is a person who is determined to follow Jesus Christ, with the desire to learn from Him and live according to His example. (Bob Gordon)

Disciples are to go and make disciples, this is not optional for Christians but the command of Jesus. Paul was a good example of a new Christian obeying the command to go! Acts 9:20.

A verse to remember

Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always , even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20 N.L.T.

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