Read Matthew 16:24-26
ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1 NLT)
We’ve all seen the bumper magnets and bulletin signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” While well-intentioned, this phrase often misses the mark. It focuses on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge we face isn’t just keeping Christ in a holiday—it’s keeping Christ in Christian.
Part 8: Don’t Neglect Discipleship: We’ve mentioned Dietrich Bonhoeffer before in this series, but his life and teachings on discipleship deserve a closer look. Bonhoeffer’s commitment to following Christ, even in the face of Nazi oppression, offers us a powerful example of what it truly means to be a disciple.
In his seminal work, “The Cost of Discipleship,” Bonhoeffer introduced the concept of “costly grace.” He argued that true discipleship requires more than just intellectual assent to Christian beliefs. It demands a radical commitment to follow Christ, often at great personal cost. Bonhoeffer didn’t just write about this; he lived it. He actively resisted the Nazi regime, participated in a plot to overthrow Hitler, and was ultimately executed for his actions.
Bonhoeffer’s life challenges us to consider: Are we willing to follow Christ even when it’s uncomfortable or dangerous? Are we prepared to let our faith shape every aspect of our lives, not just our Sunday mornings?
But Bonhoeffer isn’t the only example of radical discipleship in Christian history. Consider Paul and Timothy, whose relationship provides a model of mentorship in discipleship. Paul took Timothy under his wing, guiding him in faith and eventually entrusting him with significant responsibilities. Their story reminds us that discipleship isn’t a solitary journey, but one that involves teaching and learning from others.
John Chrysostom, the “golden-mouthed” preacher of the 4th century, shows us that discipleship often involves speaking truth to power. His bold preaching against corruption in both church and state led to his exile, yet he remained committed to his calling.
Mother Teresa’s life of service in Calcutta exemplifies discipleship through radical compassion and selflessness. She dedicated herself to serving the poorest of the poor, seeing Christ in every person she encountered. Her work reminds us that discipleship often calls us to uncomfortable places, challenging us to love and serve those whom society has forgotten or abandoned.
Even in fields we might not immediately associate with ministry, we find examples of discipleship. George Frideric Handel, though primarily known as a composer, dedicated his musical gifts to glorifying God. His life shows us that discipleship extends beyond traditional religious roles and into every area of our lives and talents.
These examples challenge us to deepen our own discipleship. They remind us that following Christ is not a passive activity, but an active, all-encompassing commitment. It involves mentoring and being mentored, speaking truth even when it’s costly, serving the least of these, and using our unique gifts for God’s glory.
As we reflect on these examples, let’s ask ourselves: How can we more fully commit to discipleship in our own lives? Are we willing to pay the cost of following Christ, whatever that may mean in our context? May we be inspired by these faithful disciples who have gone before us, and may we strive to follow Christ with the same dedication and courage.
THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” – Dietrich BonhoefferPRAYER
Lord, deepen our commitment to follow You. Give us the courage to be true disciples, willing to pay the cost of faithfulness. Help us to mentor others and be mentored, to speak truth, to serve the least of these, and to use our gifts for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.