A guide to authentic discipleship
Hey there! Have you ever wondered what it truly means to follow Jesus? It's more than just attending church or reading the Bible. It's about transforming your entire life. Here’s a guide based on biblical teachings, based on the book ’Financial discipleship’ written by Peter J. Briscoe to help you understand what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.
Jesus is calling us for something that has to be our lifestyle: to deny ourselves.
"Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves." (Matthew 16:24)
Denying ourself is about submitting fully to God’s will. It’s not just about giving things up; it’s about letting go of our own desires and letting Jesus guide our life completely.
There is the second part of the verse.
"Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23).
Taking up your cross means facing challenges and opposition because we follow Jesus. It’s about standing firm in our faith, even when it’s tough and against the world’s ways. God is inviting us to love others as ourself.
"By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:35)
True discipleship is shown through love—deep, forgiving, and selfless love. It’s the kind of love described in 1 Corinthians 13, which always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres.
But also Jesus is pointing out to us that love comes from Him. He is love.
"If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters (yes, even their own life) such a person cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:26)
This might sound intense, but it means our love for Jesus should be so great that all other loves seem lesser in comparison. Even our self-love, which often hinders true discipleship, must be put aside for Jesus.
Discipleship requires us to let go of our possessions and priorities if they come between us and Jesus. It’s about putting Him first in everything, trusting that He will provide for all our needs.
Sometimes, people find excuses not to follow Jesus wholeheartedly:
Mr. Too Quick: Eager but not ready to give up comforts.
Mr. Too Slow: Interested but prioritizes other duties over Jesus.
Mr. Too Easy: Wants to follow but is tied down by family or other concerns.
Following Jesus is a bold and sacrificial journey. It means loving Him above all, denying ourselves, and taking up our cross daily. It involves staying true to His word, loving others deeply, and putting Him first in every aspect of our lives.
Remember, the journey isn’t easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Jesus is calling you to follow Him boldly and sacrificially.
Kamilla Budai
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