A Disciple is an Imitator of Jesus Christ

Preaching For Change

Understanding context is important when it comes to everything. 2. Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” (so works don’t have anything to do with it,) Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Context – These two verses seem at odds, but though salvation is a free gift, we should respond by exhibiting the same mercy and grace we have received in how we treat others. So when we talk about context we have to look at the original audience and intent. We have to take into account shared culture and history. But we also have to dissect our culture and perception to make sure there isn’t anything blocking our view of what is happening. Discipleship is incredibly important because.. here’s why. Matthew 28:16-CONTEXT. 16 Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! 18 Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations,[a] baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” So Jesus gives a job to the Disciples. What was that job? What did the disciples think a disciple was? Disciples First encounter with Jesus John 1:35-51 Disciples in Jesus time. Mathetes- secular apprentice, imitators. Left home moved in with their Rabbi and became his servants. Rabbi- teacher, but also my Master. `Rab-> my great one. Rabbi guided the group until they were fully developed followers who would go and make other followers. The Rabbi’s reputation relied upon his scholars. The disciples were to imitate everything about the Rabbi. How he ate, prayed. They were little mini me’s that were supposed to follow him everywhere. “May you be covered in the dust of your Rabbi.” Ancient saying. Calling of Simon, Peter, Andrew, James, and John Matthew 4:18-21m As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him. 21 Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, How did Rabbi’s see disciples? Servants and Spiritual children who carry on her beliefs. A way to influence generations to come. How did Jesus see the disciples? Matthew 8:18 Jesus identifies as a homeless Rabbi. Mark 8:34 (cross to bear) Luke 14:25-35 (completely sold out disciples) 1 John 2:4-6 ( Must obey God) Our context for discipleship and teachers. Students in it for the grade. Will this be on the test? Just tell me the answer. Many Rabbi’s taught by asking questions and forcing their students to learn by example. Jesus struggled with his disciples. Hint teaching Psalm 8:2 Jesus reference to Matthew 21:12 12 Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out all the people buying and selling animals for sacrifice. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves. 13 He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves!”[f] 14 The blind and the lame came to him in the Temple, and he healed them. 15 The leading priests and the teachers of religious law saw these wonderful miracles and heard even the children in the Temple shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David.” But the leaders were indignant. 16 They asked Jesus, “Do you hear what these children are saying?” “Yes,” Jesus replied. “Haven’t you ever read the Scriptures? For they say, ‘You have taught children and infants to give you praise.’[g]” 17 Then he returned to Bethany, where he stayed overnight Psalm 8:1-2 1 O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens. 2 You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength,[b] silencing your enemies and all who oppose you. We are called to imitate the actions of Jesus. John 13:13-15 This explains more clearly Peter walking on the water. Mathew 14:22-33 Peter wanted to be like Jesus. (You have to get out of the boat if Jesus in it) Matthew 28:18-20 (Now go and seek others who will imitate you)