Resources

What does it mean to be a disciple who applies the entirety of Scripture to all aspects of life? Brandon Scroggins conveys that being a disciple of every nation involves confessing and loving the Lordship of Christ. It's about being learners and lovers of Jesus, and teaching others to do the same. This involves taking the entirety of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation and applying it to every dimension of life. As Jesus said in Matthew 28, we should teach others everything that has been commanded, and that is a lifelong process. According to Scroggins, observing everything Jesus said involves not only being regenerated or experiencing a change of heart but also living that change in every facet of life. This teaching is meant for every nation and every generation. The Gospel should not end with us, but should extend from one generation to the next. It requires a confession and love of the Lordship of Christ, and learning His ways in all areas of life, and teaching others to do the same. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV): "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Is the power of the Holy Spirit essential in making disciples? Paul Washer brings to light an often neglected truth about the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in sharing the Gospel. He argues that due to the caution against heretical teachings, many people in the theological circle often shy away from or downplay the significance of the Holy Spirit. Washer insists that the Holy Spirit is not just synonymous with the Word of God but is a distinct person who plays a vital role in our Christian journey. The world, Washer expounds, is like Jericho - tightly shut and impenetrable. Similarly, the heart of man is often closed off, unreachable without the power of the Holy Spirit. It's not just the fruit or character of the Holy Spirit that is needed, but the actual power from on high. He urges the need for believers to constantly seek more manifestations of the Holy Spirit's power in their lives and ministries, especially if the Gospel is to reach the remotest parts of the world. Acts 1:8 (NKJV): "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

How do we identify a true disciple of Christ? Scott Aniol explains that a disciple of Christ is identified as someone who is intentionally following Him. This begins with repentant faith, recognizing the need for salvation due to sins committed against a holy God, and placing complete trust in Jesus Christ for salvation. The first question to ask when determining who is a disciple, therefore, is whether they have repented of their sins and put their faith in Jesus Christ. However, true discipleship goes beyond mere belief. A disciple is one who seeks to live out their faith, following the teachings and example of Christ. This includes examining how the individual lives their life, beyond their stated beliefs. A true disciple is not just intellectually accepting gospel truths but actively seeking to follow Christ in every aspect of their life. This transformation and ability to follow Christ can only come from the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit. John 15:8 (NKJV): "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples."

What does it mean to spread the gospel and how can we do this in our everyday lives? Paul Carrington addresses the topic of spreading the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of having a desire to share the transformative power of the message of Christ, not out of guilt but out of a sincere belief and desire to glorify God. He cites Jesus' words in John chapter 4, encouraging his disciples to "lift up their eyes" and see the multitude of opportunities around them. We don't necessarily have to go internationally to spread the Gospel; opportunities are present all around us - with our neighbors, at work, even at the cash register while shopping. Carrington emphasizes the need to not only preach the Gospel in our homes but also extend it to others by inviting them to our homes or engaging them with the Gospel in our day-to-day activities. He encourages us to pray for opportunities to share the Gospel and assures us that when we do, God answers our prayers. He concludes by noting that the beauty of spreading the Gospel lies not just in reaching out to remote parts of the earth but extending it to our neighbors across the street. Matthew 28:19 (NKJV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus as a woman? Robert Bosley discusses the role of a woman as a follower of Jesus. He asserts that throughout history, the normative pattern for women has been to take up the mantle of a wife and a mother. This isn't to demean the value of those who remain single or aren't blessed with children, but rather to highlight the typical path that women have trodden for centuries. Bosley emphasizes that God's sovereignty oversees these aspects of life. He goes on to stress the impact of a woman's role in shaping society. The home, he states, is the foundation of all societies, and when a mother fulfills her duties and raises her daughters to follow in her footsteps, she contributes to maintaining the societal structure. Bosley suggests that the absence of this normative pattern is part of the reason for the societal chaos we currently witness. Proverbs 31:28 (NKJV): "Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."

Are we truly following Christ if there are no signs of His influence in our lives? In his discourse, Paul Thompson uses the metaphor of walking through a forest behind someone to depict discipleship. The idea is that if we're trailing someone through a forest and they have soil on their footwear or pollen from the trees on their sleeves, we should have the same if we're truly following them. In the same vein, Thompson asserts that we can't claim to be followers of Christ if there's nothing about us that resembles Him. If we don't show any signs of being in the same mindset or "location" as Christ, then our claim to be His followers becomes questionable. The essence of discipleship is to resemble the one we're following. This resemblance is not superficial, but rather a deep-rooted identification with Christ's teachings, mindset, and way of life that should be evident in our lives. 1 Peter 2:21 (NKJV): "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps."

How can fathers avoid discouraging their children and causing them to lose heart? In his talk, Chris Law explores the challenges of fatherhood, particularly in relation to the biblical instruction found in Colossians 3:21 - "[F]athers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged." He discusses the delicate balance between the necessary discipline to guide a child's behavior and the risk of causing discouragement and loss of motivation. The necessity of discipline is clear, as the foolishness of childhood requires both correction and direction. However, the danger of becoming too harsh and pushing too hard can lead to our children losing heart. Law invites fathers to reflect on God's example, who corrects us with great love and gentleness. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the ease with which we can crush our children's spirits, which requires a careful approach, especially with our daughters. Each child is unique and needs to be led, nurtured, and fostered in a tailored way, thus avoiding discouragement and promoting their growth and development. Ephesians 6:4 (NKJV): "And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord."

How does the concept of shepherding one's family differ from simply driving or leading them? In the video, Trent Moody emphasizes the role of men as shepherds rather than mere drivers or leaders of their families. He articulates that God's calling for men is to shepherd their families with humility and guidance, contrasting it with a directive to simply drive or lead. Moody asserts that when men lead in humility, inviting their families to follow, there's a natural inclination within the family to respond positively. He delves into the innate design, suggesting that men are created to lead and women are inherently designed to desire someone to lead them in life. This natural order, when witnessed by children, establishes a sense of security and calmness within the family unit. He shares personal experiences where taking a firm yet humble stand in leadership has visibly reduced stress levels within his family, creating a sense of security for his children. Moody emphasizes the profound impact of parents, particularly when they align in vision and approach, contributing to the overall harmony and stability within the family. Ephesians 5:25 (NKJV): "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her."

What does it mean to exercise liberty in introducing programs in the church? Paul White articulates that in the context of church programs, we possess the liberty to implement those practices which the head of the church, Jesus Christ, has instructed us to put in place. He emphasizes the significance of remembering that the church does not belong to any one individual. The church has been purchased through the blood of Christ, and pastors are merely under shepherds who are subject to the chief Shepherd. Moreover, where Christ has not provided specific instruction, White believes that it is best to refrain from introducing new practices. The implication here is that the church, as the body of Christ, should adhere to the principles and teachings outlined by its head, rather than introducing elements based on personal preference or cultural trends. This approach ensures that the church remains true to its central mission and values, prioritizing the instructions of Christ over individual desires. 1 Peter 5:4 (NKJV): "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away."

What role does God play in the formation of Christians versus the responsibility of believers in making disciples? In the video, Rob Ventura draws a clear distinction between the making of Christians and the making of disciples. He emphasizes that while Christians are born by God's work, the responsibility of believers lies in making disciples. Ventura highlights the command from Jesus in the Great Commission to make disciples, elucidating that discipleship involves nurturing and guiding those who have already been saved through the preaching of the gospel. He stresses that discipleship begins with the transformative act of salvation by God, followed by believers' role in guiding and discipling those who have accepted Christ. Ventura defines a disciple as a follower of Christ, emphasizing that being a disciple is not a self-made choice but stems from being born again as a Christian. He references the conversion of Paul in Acts chapter 9, highlighting the essence of surrender and readiness to follow Christ's will. A disciple, as described by Ventura, is a lifelong learner and follower of Jesus, guided by His teachings present in the infallible Word of God. The disciple's transformation stems from being born again through the Holy Spirit's power. John 8:31-32 (NKJV): "Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, 'If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.'"

What does it mean to have a multi-generational mentality in discipleship and raising children? Jason Dohm shares insights from Deuteronomy 32:7, emphasizing that discipleship should be a multi-generational endeavor. This means wisdom is not confined to a single generation but can be found across different generations, which is significant because if discipleship only happens within one generation, we miss out on the wisdom of those who came before and will come after us. Every generation should avoid the misconception that they are the sole containers of all wisdom and should rather seek wisdom from other generations. The next point Dohm highlights is the importance of the younger generation seeking wisdom from their elders. While parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents should impart wisdom to their descendants, it is also the responsibility of the younger generation to seek out and pull this wisdom from their elders. This helps balance the responsibility of wisdom transfer and encourages the younger generation to have an appetite for wisdom from those who have more life experience and have 'been through the wars'. Proverbs 1:8-9 (NKJV): 'Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.'

How can we maintain a holy family and church while still engaging with the world around us? Jeffrey D. Johnson discusses the challenge of keeping our families and churches pure while not isolating ourselves from the world. Despite the dangerous influences that television and the internet can bring into our homes, we are not called to completely retreat from society. As Jesus was sent into the world, so are we. We are to go into the city centers and public squares, places where the 'wolves' live. Our mission is to bring a message of peace and love to these places, not in the way the world understands love, but true love that speaks of heaven and hell, and the redemption available through Christ. This message is not for us to keep to ourselves, but to share with the dying world around us. The more we have a heart for the lost, the more we will evangelize and pray for them. This means becoming more outwardly focused with the Gospel, not seeking to befriend the 'wolves' or partake in their activities, but to bring them the message of peace, even if they hate us. Matthew 5:14 (NKJV): "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden."