That is why, when Jesus sent his disciple out to make disciples, he told them to teach the new disciples to obey all that he had commanded – not just to teach them what he had commanded.
Do you like the word ‘disciple’? Do you feel it fits you? Would it be a good answer to give when someone asks you about your religious interests? Would it be a fair description?
I think it is worth restoring its use. There is another common term in the New Testament that we could use – servant. Actually it means something like an indentured servant, someone under authority not just a volunteer waiter kind of person.
If we called ourselves disciples (apprentice Christians) it might help us think more clearly about our trade. And assist us to practise it better. Trade? What trade?
Healers, reconcilers, Jesus’ spokespersons, intercessors, prophets, encouragers, binders up of the broken-hearted, visitors of prisoners, carers for widows and orphans, benefactors of communities, godly administrators, callers to repentance, remitters of sins, proclaimers of good news, ... what have I missed? What is in your CV?
Dale