Several years ago I met a gentleman for the first time. We were visiting about our family and fatherhood. Discipleship came up and he said something I’ve never forgotten. He said… ‘Bill, my children are all in college, away from home. I have realized that I raised them well, but I did not disciple them’. So, what is the difference and does it really matter as long as you do it well? Good question. It could actually be one in the same. But discipleship goes beyond simply raising your children. Certainly, you’re interested in their health, scholastically, making right choices, staying out of trouble, choosing right friends, maybe even taking them to a church, whatever.
A disciple is a follower of some school of thought or some person. So a disciple maker is someone that is leading and training them well in the way you would want them to go. And if you are a Christian, a believer, you would lead them in the way of Christ using the word of God. But it doesn’t just include your children; maybe your grandchildren and great grandchildren. Joanne and I have all three. And it may be people that God leads you to disciple. The expression, ‘iron sharpening iron’ is appropriate.
Jesus spoke certain words as he was departing, going back to the right hand of God, his Father. I think sometimes the last words you say to someone before departing are so critical and memorable. Jesus was setting the stage for the world that he was going to direct from his throne, but through his discipleshere on earth. He bundled up this command and privilege into one neat package. ‘And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age”’ (Mt. 28.18-20).
He assured them that he had full authority in all of the universe, that they/we were to go and make disciples wherever God takes us, beginning in your home and/or all over the world, sealing them with the Trinity, and teaching those the things he had taught them, the apostles and other disciples. And that he would never forsake them/us, never! It’s what the Christian life is all about. Discipleship! And you have the author and finisher of your faith leading you, cheering you on, blessing you and providing opportunities to fulfill this great privilege. All to the glory of God!
I want to share two testimonies that I just received from two Abiding Fathers’ facilitators. One is a Hispanic church group in Dallas. ‘Bill, it’s truly incredible what God is doing in these men’s lives. They are not just reading the book; they’re already taking action to be present fathers in their lives’.
The other is a small group meeting in Bonton Farms here in South Dallas. ‘Bill! Blessings to you. We are working our way through the book slowly. We meet twice a month… we have all cried in this class and have been made better’. The ‘book’ is From Faith to Faith. From fathers absent in the home to fathers abiding in the home.Which are you?
Dads, if you need to be discipled, let us know. We are here for you.