Matthew 28:18–20 (NKJV) — 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
Christians are called to go to do the work of God. The church is not a building. The church consists of those who are disciples of Jesus. The work of the church is to make disciples.
What’s the difference between salvation and discipleship? Salvation is a one-time event. It happens the moment someone believes in Jesus for everlasting life. Discipleship is a lifetime process. It begins the moment a person decides to make Jesus daily his savior. Jesus called the church to make disciples!
The church comes together to worship God. In worshiping God the church edifies (teaches, instructs, and builds up) believers. When we hear of the “Great Commission” we think of leading another person to salvation. Salvation is the beginning of discipleship.
The church has a responsibility in making disciples. The follower of Christ has a responsibility to be discipled. This is one reason Hebrews 10:24-25 is important. “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”
This week invite those you meet to be disciples of Christ. Invite others to come to church, and be involved in the discipleship of believers in Christ.
Five responsibilities of every follower of Christ.
- Attend church on Sunday.
- Serve the church with your spiritual gifts.
- Pursue holiness
- Promote unity in the church
- Give of yourself, and yes your money (tithe) to the church.