Discipling the Few

It is interesting to see how Jesus worked here on earth during His three year ministry. While he did preach to the multitudes now and then, and was seen walking the streets healing men and women of all sorts, the core of the Messiah’s earthly ministry was focused on discipling the Twelve.

Jesus was not caught up in the theory of preaching to as many people He could while He was alive. No, Jesus was very much into the most effective way to grow the kingdom. Compared to some modern preachers today who pack in multitudes every Sunday morning or preach before millions resulting in an alter call, Christ used a different approach. Sometimes we are so involved in getting the gospel out to the most people possible while we really should be focusing on discipling our brothers and sisters to reach others. Jesus did find time to preach to many, as seen in the feeding of 5,000 and then later the feeding of 4,000. We also see the crowd constantly following Him to hear His message and to be healed. Yet, in the midst of all of this, Christ’s work was to teach and lead a select few. God knew this would be the most effective manner to usher in the kingdom.

Does this sound familiar at all? Here at the Ark, God has chosen only a select few to build the kingdom. Jesus knew it would have been no use to simply spread the good news as fast as possible. He thought it much more effective to devote His time with the Twelve as they dwelt with Him, following His example. Jesus didn’t just give them words and teachings, He gave them Himself. Jesus’ focus with His disciples had nothing to do with evangelism or teaching them how to save people. Jesus couldn’t send out His disciples to preach the good news until after they understood who He was. Shouldn’t we then focus on discipling others who would then effectively be able to lead others to Christ and disciple them? It shouldn’t be enough to simply save people, but to also teach them and guide them so that they may do the same for others.

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Last modified: April 30, 2006