Defining Discipleship: Courage, Compassion, and Community

 

Summary

In my sermon, I began by engaging with the children of our congregation, discussing the essence of what makes a church. I explained that it's not the building or its features that define a church, but rather the people who believe in Jesus and gather to learn about His word. I emphasized the importance of baptism and how it marks us as redeemed by Christ.

I then recounted the story of the early church from Acts 11, highlighting how the persecution of Christians led to the diaspora, which in turn facilitated the spread of Christianity. I spoke of Barnabas, the encourager, and how his role was crucial in the growth of the church. I drew parallels to our own mission to make disciples who will make more disciples, emphasizing the importance of sharing the gospel.

Moving forward, I delved into the characteristics of a disciple, starting with the understanding that a disciple is a Christian and a believer, washed clean by baptism and protected from Satan. I spoke about the willingness of a disciple to suffer for Christ and the importance of abiding in Jesus' word, as well as the significance of communion as a means of grace.

I shared personal stories about my grandchildren to illustrate the courage and boldness required of disciples, especially when sharing our faith. I encouraged the congregation to find ways to witness in their day-to-day activities, using simple gestures like saying "have a blessed day" to spark conversations about faith.

I also touched on the compassion of Jesus, using the poignant image of a mother hen protecting her chicks to illustrate His sacrificial love for us. I spoke about the need for disciples to be generous, not just with their finances but also with their time and talents, to support the church's mission.

I discussed the importance of fearing God with a healthy respect for His power and might, and the importance of loving and trusting God. I reminded the congregation that being a disciple is demanding, and sometimes we need help to be who we are in Christ.

I addressed the current state of our church body, acknowledging that while we have a rich history and many resources, we have been shrinking in numbers. I highlighted the success of Hope on the Beach in making disciples and the need for our church to plant, sustain, and revitalize churches to continue growing.

I concluded by discussing the demographic shifts in the United States and the opportunities they present for church growth. I reiterated that God gives the church the power and authority to grow, and through the church, God blesses the world. I closed with a prayer for the congregation and for the bold proclamation of the gospel.

Key Takeaways:

1. A church is defined not by its structure but by the gathering of believers in Jesus. The act of baptism is a powerful declaration of being marked as redeemed by Christ, and it is essential for us to remember and celebrate this truth. ([14:27])

2. The spread of Christianity through the diaspora teaches us that even in times of persecution and hardship, the gospel can flourish. We are called to be encouragers like Barnabas, supporting one another and spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. ([25:51])

3. Discipleship involves a willingness to suffer for Christ and to remain steadfast in His word. Communion is a profound act where we literally digest the word of God, reminding us of the grace we receive through Jesus' sacrifice. ([30:33])

4. Courage and compassion are vital traits of a disciple. We must be bold in sharing our faith, just as a child shares their love for Jesus without fear. Our actions and words should reflect the compassion of Christ, who gave His life so that we may live. ([37:34])

5. The mission to make disciples is ongoing and requires us to be generous, grateful, and to trust in God's provision. As we engage with our communities and share the gospel, we must do so with a spirit of generosity and gratitude, trusting that God will guide our paths. ([42:43])

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 11:19-26 - The story of the early church and the role of Barnabas.
2. Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
3. Matthew 23:37 - "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!"

#### Observation Questions
1. What was the significance of the diaspora in the spread of Christianity according to Acts 11? ([22:08])
2. How did Barnabas contribute to the growth of the early church? ([23:38])
3. What does Joshua 1:9 command us to do, and what assurance does it provide? ([34:54])
4. How does the image of a mother hen in Matthew 23:37 illustrate Jesus' compassion? ([37:34])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. How did the persecution of Christians lead to the spread of the gospel, and what can we learn from this about facing hardships today? ([22:08])
2. In what ways can we be encouragers like Barnabas in our own church community? ([23:38])
3. What does it mean to be strong and courageous in the context of sharing our faith, as mentioned in Joshua 1:9? ([34:54])
4. How can the image of Jesus as a mother hen influence our understanding of His love and protection for us? ([37:34])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced a hardship. How did it impact your faith, and how can you use that experience to encourage others? ([22:08])
2. Identify someone in your church or community who might need encouragement. What specific action can you take this week to support them? ([23:38])
3. Think of a situation where you need to be strong and courageous in sharing your faith. What steps can you take to prepare yourself for that moment? ([34:54])
4. How can you show compassion in your daily interactions, similar to how Jesus showed compassion to Jerusalem? ([37:34])
5. What are some simple ways you can witness to others in your day-to-day activities, as suggested by the pastor's example of saying "have a blessed day"? ([34:18])
6. Reflect on your own baptism or the concept of baptism. How does it shape your identity as a disciple of Christ? ([14:27])
7. How can you be more generous with your time, talents, and finances to support the mission of the church? ([39:24])

Devotional

Day 1: Baptism Marks Our Redeemed Identity
Baptism is more than a mere ritual; it is a profound declaration of faith and a public proclamation of one's new identity in Christ. It signifies the washing away of the old self and the rebirth into a life redeemed by Jesus. As believers gather, it is not the grandeur of the church building that defines them, but their shared belief in Jesus and their commitment to learning and living out His word. Baptism is a pivotal moment that marks a believer as belonging to Christ, a transformation that is both personal and communal. It is a cause for celebration within the church family, as each member is reminded of their own journey through the waters of baptism and the grace that flows from it. [14:27]

"For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ." - Galatians 3:27 (ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on your own baptism. How does this sacred act continue to shape your identity and purpose as a follower of Christ?

Day 2: Encouragement Fuels Gospel Expansion
The early church thrived amidst persecution, with the scattering of believers leading to the widespread dissemination of the gospel. This diaspora, while challenging, became a catalyst for growth, much like seeds scattered by the wind take root in new soil. The story of Barnabas, known for his encouragement, teaches the importance of supporting one another in faith. His role in the early church exemplifies how every believer has a part to play in the mission to make disciples. Encouragement is not merely about offering kind words; it is about spurring one another on to share the transformative message of Jesus Christ with boldness and conviction. [25:51]

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)

Reflection: Who has been a Barnabas in your life, and how can you be an encourager to others in your community this week?

Day 3: Steadfastness and Suffering in Discipleship
Being a disciple of Christ involves a deep commitment to His teachings and a readiness to endure suffering for His sake. This path is not without its trials, but it is marked by a steadfastness that comes from abiding in Jesus' word. Communion serves as a tangible reminder of the grace received through Christ's sacrifice, a grace that sustains disciples through all hardships. As one partakes in the Lord's Supper, it is an intimate act of fellowship with Christ and a renewal of the covenant made at baptism. This sacred practice fortifies the believer's resolve to live out the gospel, even in the face of adversity. [30:33]

"But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed." - 1 Peter 4:13 (ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you prepare your heart to embrace suffering for Christ, and how can you find joy in the midst of it?

Day 4: Boldness and Compassion in Witnessing
The courage to share one's faith is a hallmark of true discipleship. Like a child who speaks of their love for Jesus with uninhibited joy, disciples are called to be bold in their witness. This boldness is coupled with the compassion of Christ, who, like a mother hen, gathers and protects her brood. The sacrificial love of Jesus is the message that disciples are entrusted to share, a message that should be evident in both words and deeds. Simple gestures and conversations can open doors to deeper discussions about faith, allowing disciples to embody the love and compassion of Christ in everyday interactions. [37:34]

"Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." - 1 Peter 3:14-15 (ESV)

Reflection: How can you demonstrate the courage and compassion of Jesus in a practical way to someone you encounter today?

Day 5: Generosity and Trust in God's Mission
The mission to make disciples is an ongoing endeavor that calls for generosity in every aspect of life. Believers are encouraged to give not just financially, but also of their time and talents, to support the work of the church. This generosity stems from a heart of gratitude and a trust in God's provision. As the church engages with the community and shares the gospel, it does so with the understanding that God is the one who guides and blesses the mission. Trusting in His power and authority, the church is empowered to grow and, through its growth, to be a blessing to the world. [42:43]

"Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." - 2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV)

Reflection: What is one way you can use your time, talents, or resources this week to contribute to the church's mission in a spirit of generosity and trust?

Quotes

1. "A disciple is a Christian. Number two. A disciple is a believer. Somebody that believes in Jesus. Somebody that believes Jesus did this for us. Washed us clean. He gave us his work. His work on the cross has been given to us. And made us pure. We believe this. We believe this. A disciple believes in Christ. Not by his own strength or will. But by grace. Faith is a gift." [28:31]( | | )

2. "And that's one of the signs of the church as well. That's where God's word is proclaimed. Where God's word is digested. Literally. In communion. We actually eat the word of God. Body and blood. The bread. The wine. The wine with God's word. Take it on our tongues. We eat it. And in it. That's one of the means of grace." [30:33]( | | )

3. "A disciple bears fruit. That's the idea. A disciple makes a disciple. If you're a disciple and you do all these things and you don't bear fruit. If you don't share your gospel. You're probably not a disciple. Sorry. Disciples make disciples. Disciples teach other about Jesus. Share their faith. That's what disciples do." [31:14]( | | )

4. "A disciple is courageous. And here's your memory verse. Would you recite this with me? This is from Joshua 1. Ready? Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened and do not be dismayed. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. He's with you wherever you go." [35:33]( | | )

5. "A disciple is compassionate. St. Paul says be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Compassion. Jesus showed this. It's Matthew 16, I believe. He's overlooking Jerusalem. He says, O Jerusalem, O Jerusalem, you're the one that persecuted the prophet and killed those ones sent to you." [36:29]( | | )

6. "Shifting gears a little bit, a disciple is generous. It gives. And that's, the church needs money, or the church uses money to pay the pastors and the staff, and to pay for things so that the congregation can be equipped to reach out into the community. Also to take care of itself and the family of Christ. But the goal is to get out there." [39:24]( | | )

7. "God gives the power and the authority for the church to grow. We plant. We water. God makes it grow. God will make his church grow. God gives power and authority for the church to grow. And he provides order and tools for the church to grow. We know how to do this. God's in control. He's given us what we need." [57:26]( | | )

8. "And then through the church. Through the church. God blesses the world. That's pretty cool. You're part of it. You're part of it. May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding and keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus now and forever. Amen." [58:12]( | | )

9. "So Hope on the Beach is a member of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. There are almost 6,000 other congregations. We kind of know what we're doing when it comes to teaching people about Jesus. But we're not getting any larger. We're shrinking. When I came out of seminary, we had 2.2 million people. We had over 6,000 members." [48:42]( | | )

10. "So anyway, the Lutheran Church of Missouri Senate has seven mission priorities. I went on their website for some other reason. And I found these. And the first of the mission priorities is to plant, sustain, and revitalize Lutheran churches. They're saying that's the most important thing that we can do. Is plant churches. Revitalize churches." [51:01]( | | )

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Transcript
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