Highlight – 1 Corinthians 11:1

[1] Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. (ESV)

Explain – This is disciple-making in action, down to its very essence.  It goes beyond the transfer of information to life transformation.  This happens through relationship, as it did with Jesus and the 12.  Paul led a life worthy of imitation because he himself was a disciple/follower of Christ.  He then could confidently invite others to follow him.  He would not lead them astray.  

Apply – This is such a heavy responsibility.  But the heaviness in no way means that we are exempt.  It means that through the power of the Holy Spirit we do what we have been commanded to do in the Great Commission.  We have a Great Commission, a Great Savior, a Great Power–everything we need.  All that is required is a Great Submission on our part.  We must first truly be disciples before we can be disciple-makers.  

What are 3 ways I need to grow as a disciple?

1. Prayer – I am making some strides here, but still have a ways to go.  I want prayer to be as natural as breathing.  It is currently pretty mechanical.    

2. Faith – Unfortunately, I feel that the older I get the more cynical I get.  Cynicism is certainly not a fruit of the Spirit and is incompatible with faith.  I want to view every circumstance, every trial through a lens of faith–seeing it with the potential of God at work.  

3. Evangelism – Still looking for a niche in the community where I naturally fit and can be a blessing.  

I love/hate the question, “If the level of _________________________ in my church didn’t rise about my level of practice, what would be the consequence?” It is a good question for all spiritual leaders.  

Respond – “Father, I want to be one who can say like Paul, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.”  But, I know that I have some needed growing to do.  I pray specifically for your help in the areas of prayer, faith, and evangelism.  May today be a day of growth in these areas.”