READ | SERMON NOTES
Summary | Our identification is Christian but our true spiritual identity is child of God and disciple of Christ. A Christian may carry his identification but may never fully live in his true identity. Discipleship is integral to our identity. It is our purpose, calling and reward. We are called to be disciples and make disciples. A disciple is one who loves Christ and one another by growing in Christ, sharing Christ and serving Christ. This definition draws out 3 keys to discipleship — love (Lk 10:27), growth (Jn 14:15), service (Mk 10:45). Growing in Christlikeness encompasses aspects of devotion, obedience and service in increasing measure. John Wesley refers to discipleship as growing in Christian perfection or growing in holy love, i.e. love for God and our neighbours. The Greek word for perfect is teleios, which means ‘complete, mature, accomplished its end’.
How to grow?
By being intentional. Take the initiative and determined choice to pursue the course. Jesus says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Lk 9:23, ESV).
If we are not intentional, the following might happen:
- We will drift unconsciously – to be a disciple is not to remain the same.
- We will settle for mediocrity – we will be shallow in our faith and unable to withstand the storms of life. Hb 5:13-14 urges us not to settle for milk but to live on solid food meant for adults.
- 3. We will forgo missional urgency – Covid-19 reminds us of our vulnerability and our need to know God and make Him known.
How to be intentional?
Use the acronym MAW:
1. Methodical
Take the next step using reasonable and time-tested measures like the Wesley Discipleship Model which outlines faith environments to grow:
- Circumstances – our response to situations and trials in life (Jas 1:2-4)
- Obedience – our choice to obey which is faith in action (1 Jn 2:5)
- Relationship – our authentic and accountable spiritual community (Hb 10:24)
- Disciplines – spiritual practices like prayer, worship, reading God’s Word (1 Tim 4:7-8)
- Service – acts of mercy, missions, evangelism (Mt 10:45, 28:19-20; Acts 1:8).
Our head, heart, hands and habits are all engaged in discipleship. Do a spiritual health check based on CORDS to know where you are before taking the next step.
2. Accountable
Accountability is the hallmark of the early Church (Acts 2:46-48). They were so effective in witness that the Church experienced phenomenal growth. John Wesley emphasised accountability through the creation of class and band meetings. We can gather in small groups or find a companion to journey with us.
3. Willing
Intentional discipleship is a reality only if we are willing. No one can compel us to be intentional; only God’s Spirit can convict and transform us. Regardless of the situation you are in, if you are willing and available, God’s Spirit can refresh and empower you to take the next step. Will you ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with a fresh and compelling vision to walk in true spiritual identity, to know God’s presence, power and promises anew?
What is your identity? What is your next step in intentional discipleship this year?
(Sermon notes by Woo Choi Yin)
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
1. What impresses you about your spiritual identity as a disciple of Christ? What does it mean for you to be a disciple?
2. Why is it important to be intentional in our discipleship?
3. Have you encountered situations when you became distant from God or backslided in your faith because you were not intentional in your walk with God?
4. How is your spiritual health? You may do a health check at: wesleymc.org/spi-health-check
5. In this new year, what is your next step in your discipleship?
6. Share with someone your action plan. Stay accountable for how you are journeying with God
