Be The Message
December 10th, 2007I have heard it said that the best disciple-making is to BE the message. That has many ramifications in our time. “Church growth” is often equated to “disciple-making.” As a result, we have gimmick after gimmick for the sake of numbers. The result is shallow faith and shallow “disciples.”
Being a disciple of Jesus is far more than having our favorite pew at church. It is more than an occasional Bible study. It is becoming like our rabbi — Jesus – in every way. Jesus studied the text; taught the text; and lived the text (the Torah). He was the message (John 1:14).
Our rabbi told us to make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20). If we are following Jesus should we not do the same kinds of things he did? Should we not study, teach, and LIVE the text in our lives?
Real disciple-making happens by real disciples. It happens when we give up gimmicks and worldly allurements to “get people into church.” It happens when we LIVE the message.
For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel (Ezra 7:10, NIV).
Keep The Light Burning!
Perry Greene
