Hebrews 13:7-8 – If we simplify discipleship to mere information transfer, we miss much of what is necessary for transformation. We all need mentoring relationships worth imitating as we seek to follow Jesus.
Information
- We have more access to biblical teaching yet an alarming amount of biblical illiteracy.
- Downloading information does not guarantee transformation.
- Our Christian culture is built on offers to “subscribe to my teaching” rather than “imitate my life.”
Scripture (Hebrews 13:7-8)
- If you’re going to sit under someone’s teaching, make sure they are guided by Scripture rather than opinions.
- Imitation can’t be attempted at a distance.
- We need mentors who prioritize biblical exhortations and examples.
- If one’s life is worth replicating, it is because one had a faith worth imitating.
- The consistency of Christ contrasts with the frailty of even our best mentors.
Imitation
- A critical component of our stories is missing if we have neglected relational discipleship.
- Pride will keep you from mentoring (dependent on a hopeful increase of strength) and being mentored (resistant due to a false sense of strength).
- The Great Commission is advanced by multiplication – not addition.
- Be a Disciple: Be intentional about developing a discipleship plan with a mentor who is worth imitating and who is in your regular proximity.
- Be a Disciple-Maker: Find someone a few steps behind you and teach him or her what you know about following Jesus.
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.
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