What steps can you take to fulfill your calling as a disciple today? Seeing the Pattern in Mark 3:14 Mark 3:14: “He appointed twelve of them, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach,” Two lifelong commitments flow from this verse: • Be with Jesus. • Be sent by Jesus. Step 1: Choose His Presence First • Daily, unhurried time in Scripture and prayer (Mark 1:35; John 15:5). • Faithful participation in gathered worship (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Moment-by-moment awareness of Him in every task (Colossians 3:17). Step 2: Let His Words Shape You • Read, study, and memorize the Bible (Psalm 119:11; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Act immediately on what you learn (James 1:22). • Share insights with another believer; teaching cements learning (2 Timothy 2:2). Step 3: Go and Tell • Jesus still sends disciples to preach (Matthew 28:19-20). • Identify people in your regular circles who need the gospel. • Use your testimony—no one can refute what Christ has done in you (Acts 4:13). • Keep the message clear: sin, substitutionary death, resurrection, repentance (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Step 4: Serve in His Power • Spiritual work demands spiritual power (Mark 3:15; Acts 1:8). • Put on God’s armor daily (Ephesians 6:10-18). • Pray for boldness and expect God to confirm His word (Mark 16:20). Step 5: Walk in Teamwork and Accountability • Jesus called twelve, not one. • Commit to a Bible-believing local church (Acts 2:42-47). • Invite mature believers to speak truth into your life (Proverbs 27:17). • Disciple others who will disciple others (2 Timothy 2:2). Step 6: Embrace the Cost • “Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). • Expect opposition and persevere (2 Timothy 3:12). • Hold loosely to possessions and plans; cling tightly to Christ (Luke 14:33). • Keep the final reward in view—hearing “Well done” from the Master (Matthew 25:21). Putting It All Together • Draw near to Jesus every day. • Let His Word renew your mind and direct your steps. • Speak the gospel wherever God places you. • Rely on Holy Spirit power for supernatural results. • Stay connected to fellow believers for encouragement and accountability. • Keep surrendering, keep obeying, and keep looking to the Day He returns. |
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