Disciple, an Action Word ~ Mark Balmer

Based on “Under HIS Influence – Mission Possible” by Pastor Mark Balmer;

10/17-18/09, Message #MB393; Daily Devotional #6 - “Disciple, an Action Word”

Preparing the Soil (Introduction): Like many Christ followers, I have had moments of doubt when I wonder if I am in fact a Disciple of Jesus Christ. It is a subject that can be very easy to overcomplicate. The word disciple is translated from the Greek word derived from the root word ‘manthano,’ which the Vines New Testament Dictionary defines as "to learn, to increase one's knowledge, or be increased in knowledge, frequently to learn by inquiry, or observation…” What I found most interesting is that although our secular English dictionaries list the term disciple as a noun, the Greek word is a verb. When I started to think of the term disciple as an action and not a thing, I felt the dusty gears in my head begin to crank. Being a disciple is not an “am I, or am I not,” but more of an “am I currently being or not currently being.” It is an ongoing process that requires us to continually make the choice to live life according to the will of our Creator. We must actively embrace the teachings of Jesus and spread them daily, while cooperating with the power of the Holy Spirit to emulate Jesus in how we handle ourselves throughout our daily walk.

Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): The best way to understand our Master is through the Word of God. While the setting of the Gospel is very different from the world we know, the hearts of the people, both lost and saved, are the same. The Word provides us with specific instruction on matters important to the Lord. For example in teaching us to forgive, Jesus states, “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” (Matthew 6:14). The Word also provides us with examples of how to apply the instruction in a Godly manner. In continuing with the same principle of forgiveness, when confronted with an angry group of people wanting to stone an adulteress, Jesus intercedes and confronts them by asking if any of them were without sin, and then continues to forgive the woman (John 8:1-11). So as learners, we are taught not only what to do (forgive), but how to do it (calmly, lovingly).

Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): As Christ Followers living under His influence, we must continue to live by and spread the teachings of our Master, Jesus Christ. Remember that we have unlimited potential to change our world for the good, for the glory of God. When Mary expressed doubt after an angel told her that she would bear a son as a virgin, the angel replied simply, "For nothing is impossible with God." (Luke 1:37) Live in the Word and by the Word and as disciples. God will be able to do amazing things through us that exceed our wildest imaginations (Ephesians 3:20-21).

Cultivating (Additional Reading): Philippians 4:13; Zechariah 4:6