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Lesson on Discipleship

Brothers & Sisters,

            This past Monday the United States set aside a day to remember the life and labor of Martin Luther King Jr. There is much that we can and should learn from Dr. King. One lesson, which may surprise you, is a lesson on discipleship. Stephen Smallman, in his book The Walk: Steps for New and Renewed Followers of Jesus brings this out. He writes: 

The United States recently observed a grim anniversary. Forty years earlier, on April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had been assassinated by a sniper’s bullet in Memphis, Tennessee. Many newspaper and magazine articles and television specials recalled the events of that terrible day, and in almost every instance those who had been Dr. King’s closest followers were interviewed about their memories. Usually they were called “disciples” of Dr. King. Most of them had gone on to further the cause of civil rights, but their accomplishments were achieved because of their relationship with and the inspiration of their leader.

            Such a modern example of discipleship could be repeated over and over. I think most of us get the general idea of what it means to be a disciple. A disciple is one who is devoted to learning the ways and following the example of a teacher or master. But what about being a disciple of Jesus?

 Stephen Smallman, The Walk: Steps for New and Renewed Followers of Jesus (Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., ©2009), 21.

 

That is a good question from Smallman, “What about being a disciple of Jesus?” Are we disciples of Jesus? You’re a disciple of Jesus if you’re devoted to learning the ways of Jesus. You’re a disciple of Jesus if you’re endeavoring to follow the example of our teacher and master. May we always bring him glory because of our relationship with him and the strength we draw from him and through him by the Holy Spirit.

 Warmly in Christ,

Mike