1.10. Who Is a Disciple?
a. KEY VERSES: Matthew 16:24; Luke 9:23; Mark 8:34
b. KEY THOUGHT: Jesus had something specific in mind when he invited a person to be His disciple.
c. KEY QUESTION: How did Jesus describe and therefore challenge anyone who wants to be His disciple?
d. DISCUSSION WITH REFLECTION QUESTIONS:
i. Read Luke 9:23. What three actions define the one who wants to be Jesus’ disciple?
ii. Jesus is referring to those who “want” to be His follower. Why would Jesus first give attention to the attitude “anyone who wants” before describing a disciple? What is your answer to the question, “Who is a disciple?”
iii. What does Jesus spotlight first as He describes the follower who wants to be His disciple? Note that this is not an action but an inner repetitive theme of response to all that goes around us in life. What does it mean to deny one’s self?
iv. Carrying a cross in the times of Jesus meant only one thing: that person was going to die that day. Explain what Jesus meant when He said, “Let them take up their cross daily.”
v. After Jesus points out that they must deny themselves and take up their cross daily, He then states, “Follow me.” Is it possible to be a disciple of Jesus without these two actions occurring from within our hearts?
vi. Why do you think Jesus is so serious about this commitment?
f. APPLICATION: As we discussed Jesus’ description of a disciple, what touched you most? What do you think God wants you to do as a result of understanding what He looks for in one who might be His disciple? In what ways can the discipler help you be accountable for following Christ in this serious way?
The Discipler’s Handbook by Dana Yeakley. A NavPress resource published in alliance with Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.