WHAT IS A FOLLOWER
OF JESUS?
“Come, follow me”
Matthew 4:19
FOLLOW JESUS
We hear the language “follower of Jesus” all the time, but what does it mean to be a disciple, or apprentice, of the rabbi from Nazareth? Put simply, it means you reorganise your life around three goals.
BE with Jesus – Putting time aside in your day to pray, read scripture, find a place of solitude and silence. Daily looking to walk alongside our rabbi.
BECOME like Jesus – Making intentional steps to make changes in your life to reflect Jesus as our perfect example. This takes a lifetime of work and practice as we push back against the pull of the world.
DO as Jesus did – This is our opportunity to take up Jesus’ commission in our lives. To be bringers of the Kingdom, in partnership with The Holy Spirit as our advocate and guide. Matthew 28 : 16 – 20
BE
With Jesus
BECOME
Like Jesus
DO
As Jesus Did
SPIRITUAL FORMATION
Following Jesus is an entire life’s pursuit. It is not just an event on a Sunday but a “way” of life in community around the teachings of Jesus. To “practice the way of Jesus” is to adopt the lifestyle of Jesus, to put his teachings into practice in all aspects of your life.
BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT
Jesus promised that when he left to be back with the Father, he would send The Holy Spirit to fill his disciples and this is freely available to us as well. The Spirit is our guide through life, our moral compass to keep us on the right path and away from sin. The Spirit provides us with the fruit of the spirit, filling us with Joy, Peace, Love, Kindness, gentleness and self control, He also gives us gifts to use on God’s mission field, gifts of Healing, wisdom, prophecy and miracles.
SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES
The starting point for all significant works of God is prayer. It is here that we have an opportunity to interact with the Spirit of God and participate in the redemption of our city and the healing in our lives. Spiritual disciplines are our practices as we be with and become like Jesus, these can be divided into two lists, one of Abstinence and letting go, another of Activity and engagement.
DISCIPLINES OF ABSTINENCE
Solitude, Silence, Fasting, Frugality, Chastity, Secrecy, Sacrifice.
DISCIPLINES OF ENGAGEMENT
Study, Worship, Celebration, Service, Prayer, Fellowship, Confession, Submission.