THE TRANSFORMATION OF A DISCIPLE
Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be Lord of all; Galatians 4:1 KJV
On our previous discussion on becoming a disciple, we highlighted the fact that God is not looking for disciples but Sons (male and female), and that sonship begins with the decision to be born again -the new creation, born after God’s image. However, for us, discipleship (tutorship) is the process of raising sons out of the child of God.
Our opening scripture informs that the heir who is not trained in the ways of the kingdom is not different from the servants (mere men). Have you wondered why some Christians are still acting like unbelievers? That scripture answers it. Being born again is an event but discipleship is the process into maturity to become who you truly are. The bible says that as He is, so are we in this world (1 Jn 4:17). Just like a baby human is human but through the process of growth and development becomes a matured human. So how does this happen?
2 Peter 1:5-8 says, “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge … for if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Due to limited space, we can not go in depth into each of these qualities but I would advise you read that whole chapter because its quite instructive as it summarises the basics of the christian life.
Your decision to be born again is just the beginning, God expects us to be transformed by having our mind renewed to relearn the new ways of the new life (Rom.12:1). He expects you to unlearn the old ways and replace them with new things. That is why Apostle Peter talked about adding new things to your faith which allows us assume more responsibilities and authority in sonship. A true son is a true disciple because he has had his senses exercised/trained to be able to distinguish/discern good and evil through the practice(use) of the word of God.(Heb 5:14). This process is ‘mid-wifed’ by the Holy Spirit, using the word of God,Ministry gifts(Apostles,Prophets, evangelist,Pastors and teachers etc), fellowship with other believers, prayer and evangelism
There is a lot to say in this discussion but I’ll give us the opportunity to contribute or ask questions. The disciple is transformed from babyhood through the discipline of discipleship to sonship where he/she can effectively carry out the responsibility of the kingdom and God can boldly say of him, “this is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased”. So my question today is, can one be saved(born again) without being a disciple?
Next we’ll look at the quality of a good disciple. Till then, keep your thoughts coming and stay refreshed!
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