The first chapter of the gospel of John begins with the revealing of Jesus as the cosmic Christ (the Word) and concludes with Jesus calling some very human followers to the work of discipleship. The command of Jesus to follow him is the simple (yet complex) core of Christian discipleship. It is the beginning of the heroic quest of the Church, when the divine Word reaches out to normal people to begin the kingdom.
The call of Jesus is, however, more subtle than we would have expected. John’s gospel tells us that Jesus, who is preparing to leave town, has sought out Philip seemingly for the purpose of inviting him to travel with his rabbinic group of students. Philip, however, sees so much more than this and runs to find his friend Nathanael.
The call of Philip tells us some very important things about the path of discipleship. First, it tells us that journey with Jesus is leading us away from the old way of living our life and into new and unknown places. The journey is literally taking us somewhere. It demands our activity and movement. It demands change. Second, it tells us that the journey is one that is best taken with a friend. The fellowship of the Church is quickly established as an essential part of discipleship, Andrew brings his brother Simon Peter and Philip brings Nathanael. Disciples invite their friends and family, and the invitations create growth and fellowship.
This week we will talk about answering the call by extended it to others. Ask yourself the difficult faith question, when you first answered the call of Jesus, who did you bring with you? Did you just run away from home or did you reach out and bring your best friend or sister? Disciple-making Christians reach out to those they love and they courageously share their new-found faith.
Come and join us at First Baptist Church on Sunday, January 15 at 10:30 as we explore the path of discipleship together. And don’t forget to bring a friend.
The Path of Discipleship
“Follow Me”
John 1: 43-51
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