From Believers to Disciples
Monday, January 15, 2007
From Believers to Disciples Calendar
Daily Bible Study Menu
A note about online study
“Study to show yourself approved by God …” 2 Timothy 2:15a KJV
Prayer Focus for Today
Pray for the mission of South East Asia Prayer Center. Today, pray specifically for missionary Mark Geppert, president of SEAPC.
Pray for:
- Mark’s health;
- Ask for travel mercies as he travels the world sharing Jesus;
- And for boldness in all he says and does in the name of Jesus.
God’s Word Today
We will be reading from 2 Timothy this week. This is the Apostle Paul’s last will and testament to his spiritual son Timothy. Paul leaves Timothy (and us) with words of wisdom and encouragement as well a picture of what believers and disciples of Jesus are called to be and to do – how we are to “grow up” in the faith.
2 Timothy 2:1-2
Timothy, my dear son, be strong with the special favor God gives you in Christ Jesus. 2 You have heard me teach many things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Teach these great truths to trustworthy people who are able to pass them on to others.
From Today’s Reading, a Believer …
Paul calls Timothy “my dear son.” It was through Paul’s ministry that Timothy came to know the Lord. Paul considered him his son in the faith.
Every believer in Jesus is a child of God by faith. Believers are not children of God because of their birth into a Christian family.
Were you born “saved?”
Let’s Go Deeper in Our Walk with Jesus
In John 3:1-21, we read the story of Nicodemus. Jesus tells him that he must be born again to see the Kingdom of God.
Physical birth brings us to physical life. What do believers in Jesus need to do in order to be the sons or daughters of God?
Believers also have a responsibility to others. From 2 Timothy 2:2, what ministry is given to all believers?
From Today’s Reading, a Disciple of Jesus Will …
John 3:16 is one of the most beloved verses in the Bible: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”
God loves us so much that he sent Jesus to save us. As a disciple (one who not only believes in Jesus but who is committed to serve Him each day), how can we teach others about God’s love?
What one action step can we do today to show the love of Jesus to another?
Ministry, Mission, Outreach, Service Opportunities to Consider
The East Liberty Food Kitchen in Pittsburgh prepares and serves meals to those who need to receive the love of Jesus as well as the nourishment of a hot meal and a friendly face. New Life sends servants to the kitchen on the 3rd Saturday of each month. We will be serving on January 20, 8:30am – 2pm. Contact elder Rich McCarthy at 724-766-9047 for details on how you can serve.
My Journal
Note any thoughts from Through the Bible or the Daily Reading here:
Growing and Going!
Disciples of Jesus have great influence over others. Whether we want to admit it or not, people watch us to see if we do “walk the talk” – if we live our lives the way a disciple should.
The Bible tells us of the time Paul and his friend Silas were in jail. An earthquake shook the town and provided an opportunity for the prisoners to escape. The jailer was ready to commit suicide (if he lost his prisoners, death was his punishment). Paul spoke up and told him that no one escaped. The jailer was astonished. He asked what he needed to do to be saved and Paul and Silas led him (as well as his entire household) to faith.
As disciples of Jesus, we need to know that the way we live does affect others – for good or for bad. This truth should influence our walk as we influence and teach others about Jesus.