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Convert to Disciple
Tim Savage1 So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. 3And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.
As I walked past a small group Bible study I heard someone say, “That’s the problem with the church! It’s filled with converts, not disciples.” I was surprised and indignant to hear him say that. I thought to myself, we should be thankful that there are converts! That’s part of our mission as followers of Jesus, to reach the unsaved! We must have churches that are good at attracting new believers. Obviously, I heard just a part of a larger conversation and took his thought out of context because here in Hebrews 6 we are told that we must continue to grow in Christ we can’t simply convert, we must mature in to disciples dedicated to living under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I have to discipline myself to leave behind sin and the ways of the world, I won’t fulfill God’s plan for my life if I continue to struggle with things that hold me back.
In order to walk in God’s fullness for my life I must put aside my sinful selfish nature. I have to check my temper, I have to throttle my pride, I have to monitor my motivation and attitude. When I starting winning over these issues God will reveal more truth to me and give me greater understanding of His kingdom. When I break free of the chains that bind me to my past He will be able to use me in greater ways. But He can’t trust me with more influence until He knows that I am worthy of that calling. Too often I live as a convert and not a disciple. Maybe he was right, the problem with the church is that there are too many converts and not enough disciples. May I live my life as a disciple of the most High God.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I want to live a life worthy of Your calling. I want to leave behind those things that holding me back from Your promises. Forgive me for the many times I’ve let you down and grant me the strength and courage to live a life pleasing to You.
In Jesus name,
Amen
