Tag Archives: discipleship

October 8
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“Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” (Philippians 3:17, NIV)

Every person is a “model.” Some people are examples of what to do; and others are examples of what not to do.

Paul encouraged the disciples in Philippi to follow his own example, and to follow others in the community who live similarly.

Righteous living needs to be encouraged because it often requires making choices that are contrary to the culture; such as, eschewing the love of money, loving our enemies, and being kind to the poor.

If you are discouraged because it seems that you’re alone on the narrow path of righteous living, look around! When you find a fellow-traveler, keep your eyes on him or her, even if from afar.  – Luther

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October 4
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“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. (Philippians 1:27, NIV)

Paul was in prison when he wrote these words to the Christians in Philippi (modern-day Greece), so he knew a thing or two about the challenges of living-up to standards when times are tough.

His message to the Philippians was simple: Live up to God’s holy standard without regard to circumstances.

Is our discipleship conditional? Will we be obedient to the will of God in times when it is inconvenient to do so? Will our love for others sour when we are not treated in kind?

When external circumstances have little or no bearing on our resolve to conduct ourselves “in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ,” we will experience — as Paul experienced — the joy of seeing God make possible the impossible.  – Luther

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September 27
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“As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:1-2, NIV)

Live up to your calling.

This is the message from Paul — writing from prison in Rome — to the Christians in Ephesus (a city in modern-day Turkey).

Our calling is the highest of all callings, yet we are instructed to be humble. This calling often leads us into the coarsest of situations, yet we are expected to be gentle at all times. Our calling gives us access to the wisdom of the ages, and the knowledge of the Almighty; yet we are also called to exhibit patience, forbearance, and love.

Are you living up to your calling as a disciple of Jesus? – Luther

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