Being a Disciple

READ: MATTHEW 28:16-20; 1 CORINTHIANS 3:3-11; 12:4–13:8

I was in a discipleship class, and I felt confused. How was I supposed to be a disciple-maker, to teach and support other Christians in their faith? I’m an introvert with few close friends, and making conversation is difficult for me. Was I really a disciple myself?

I was comforted when I went back to the Bible after class and was reminded of three truths. First, being a disciple and being a Christian are the same thing. Acts 11:26 says, “The disciples were called Christians.” If you’re a follower of Jesus, you are already a disciple!

Second, all disciples are called to evangelize and disciple. Evangelizing means sharing the good news of Jesus, and discipling means supporting fellow Christians in their journey of following Jesus. These aren’t just tasks for missionaries, teachers, or pastors. Both evangelism and discipleship are important parts of every disciple’s calling. We have been saved and given eternal hope through Jesus’s death and resurrection, and as we ponder these truths and press into relationship with Jesus, His love will naturally overflow from us. We will have a desire to share it through all the aspects of our lives.

Third, not everyone evangelizes and disciples in the same way, and that’s a good thing! I had been feeling guilty because talking to other people isn’t my strength. But, while it is important for introverts like myself to push ourselves to reach out to others, we shouldn’t compare our personalities and abilities. Instead we should use the unique gifts God has given us. I may not be good at small talk, but I can use my love of writing to write devotions like this one. God calls the public speakers and the writers, the teachers and the musicians, the counselors and the caregivers and the friends, and every role in between—no job is more or less important. We are all disciples, following Jesus’s leadership in the unique ways He has called us. • Abby Ciona

• Discipleship doesn’t only happen in specific programs or in formal relationships. Often, the Holy Spirit helps us notice opportunities to share the good news with someone we know or to disciple them. Can you think of a time someone else did this with you? What was that like?

• How do you like to share Jesus with others—such as in conversation, writing, music, or art?

• Who is another Christian in your life you can support in their faith? Consider taking a moment to pray for this person and ask God for ideas of how to love and serve them.

The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. 1 Corinthians 3:8 (NIV)