From Believers to Disciples
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
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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 Ellie Geppert, Mark’s wife and an integral part of the mission of SEAPC.
Pray for:
- Ellie’s health;
- Ask for God’s blessings as she travels with Mark sharing God’s Word;
- And for God’s blessings as she works with the ministry staff at the SEAPC offices in Oakmont, PA.
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 …
A believer in Jesus is a soldier!
Paul tells us that we are to be a certain kind of soldier. List the qualities of soldiers of Jesus:
Let’s Go Deeper in Our Walk with Jesus
Soldiers endure – work through – all types of circumstances. Soldiering is not a soft job.
Serving God is not a soft job. Serving God requires endurance and thinking of others.
From your reading of the Bible, what are some “marching orders” that soldiers of God are given?
Paul challenges Timothy not to “become tied up in the affairs of this life.” At the time Paul penned those words, believers in Jesus were in the minority. He wanted Timothy to remember that he could not serve two masters.
How do these words of Paul resonate with today’s world and society?
From Today’s Reading, a Disciple of Jesus Will …
A disciple of Jesus is a soldier. When we live our lives according to the teachings of Jesus, what changes may we need to make?
Will a disciple – a soldier – of Jesus worship God on Sunday and then forget about Him for the next seven days?
Will a disciple – a soldier – of Jesus follow the world’s way or the Word’s way?
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!
Joshua Chamberlain was a quiet college professor. Then, the American Civil War broke out and he found himself in command of troops that were charged with holding the crucial territory of the Little Round Top in Gettysburg. His soldiers prevailed and helped to secure the victory. Chamberlain received the Medal of Honor.
But, Chamberlain was also a soldier in Jesus’ army. He was a devout believer in Jesus and was resolved to show compassion to soldiers everywhere – no matter their political bent. He was selected to receive the first flag of surrender at Appomattox Courthouse from the defeated Confederate Army. Chamberlain showed the defeated officers and men compassion and kindness. He reflected Jesus to all.
Chamberlain, as a soldier, shared respect that day. Chamberlain, as a disciple, shared God’s grace that day. May God help all of His soldiers – disciples – to do the same.