True Discipleship: A Lesson in Spiritual Disciplines

True discipleship should be a high priority in the life of every Christian. In a world where opinions and beliefs change with the direction of the wind, followers of Christ need an anchor, a reference point through which to filter the issues we face every day. By becoming a disciple of the Messiah, we can formulate a secure worldview as well as learn to walk in His footsteps and fulfill His will for our lives. As we take a look at how challenging becoming a disciple can be, we will also realize there are wonderful opportunities available to us for witnessing to others and working for Christ's Kingdom.

Many Christians disagree about the true role of a disciple. By its very nature, the term "disciple" means, "disciplined one."¹ This isn't a very popular definition. It's not user-friendly, nor does it define the way in which most of us live our lives today. Some Christians like to believe they are doing more than their part by going to Sunday school, Sunday worship, and the Wednesday night service. But nowhere did Jesus quip, "Attend every available church service and you will earn the highest rank and status in My Kingdom." Instead, Christ tells us in Matthew 28:19-20, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." This passage is well known as the Great Commission. But how do we fulfill this mission? And exactly what teachings did Jesus command us to observe? Let's begin with the Sh'ma.