A Reflection On Discipleship

When I want to know the Person of Jesus

One of the greatest temptations Christians face is to avert our eyes from the Person of Jesus and place them on the things of Jesus—His doctrine, His people, His Word, or His mission. These things are essential, but when we focus on them as objective entities apart from living fellowship with the Person of Jesus, they become hollow.

This is why Jesus doesn’t call His disciples by saying “Follow My teachings,” or “Follow My example,” or “Follow My reasoning.” It is always personal: “Follow Me.” Too many believers have a sterile faith that emphasizes the impersonal aspects of Jesus. But He will not let us be content with that. He confronts us with Himself.

As good and instructive as theology and doctrine can be, we must not turn to them as the substance of our faith. Jesus is not a system of belief. Daily study and application are not enough. These must be built on daily communication—two-way communication between us and Jesus Himself. Wherever your discipleship is today, make sure it remains intensely personal.

“Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said.

Matthew 9:9