Seek To Be A Disciple
AI Notes: Brother John Pereira’s Message and Brother John Polo’s Sharing
I. Brother John Pereira’s Message
A. Introduction: The Privilege of God’s Word
- Key Point: It is a great privilege to engage with God’s Word, a favor from God who also gave us Jesus as the ultimate example.
- Scripture Reference:
- Matthew 4:4 – “Jesus answered, ‘It is written: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”’”
- Jesus’ words are life and truth, spoken with conviction and power to deliver us from our fallen condition, religiosity, or oppression.
- Application: Jesus emphasized that true life comes not from physical sustenance (bread) but from living by God’s Word.
B. Jesus as the Example of Living by God’s Word
- Key Point: Jesus lived eagerly attentive to His Father’s will, setting a pattern for us to follow.
- He was desperate to hear from God daily, asking, “Father, what do You want me to do? What do You want me to say?”
- His life was powerful because He lived in alignment with God’s Word.
- Scripture Reference:
- Acts 10:38 – “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.”
- Jesus was anointed to set captives free, releasing those oppressed by various burdens.
- Challenge: Most people are blinded by Satan and fail to realize the need to pattern their lives after Jesus.
- 2 Corinthians 4:4 – “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
- Ephesians 1:17-18 (implied) – Paul prays for the enlightenment of believers’ hearts to understand God’s truth.
- Call to Action: Approach God’s Word with humility and hunger, seeking enlightenment to avoid deception and live as true disciples.
C. The Danger of Deception
- Key Point: Deception is rampant and dangerous because it leads one to assume they are “okay” when they are not.
- Example: Thinking you have a valid 100-rupee note, only to discover it’s counterfeit when tested.
- Personal Testimony:
- For 25 years, Brother John assumed he was a Christian but was not a disciple, living in deception until convicted by the Holy Spirit of his sin.
- Acts 11:26 – “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.”
- The term “Christian” originally applied to disciples—those who learned and followed Jesus, not just believers.
- Assuming one is a Christian without being a disciple is a form of deception.
- Application:
- Deception means being unaware of one’s true spiritual state, like Judas Iscariot, who was close to Jesus for 3.5 years but missed the point and was deceived.
- To avoid deception, one must pursue discipleship with humility and a fervent heart.
D. Parable of the Sower: Understanding God’s Truth
- Scripture Reference:
- Matthew 13:3-9 – Jesus shares the Parable of the Sower.
- Matthew 13:10-17 – The disciples ask, “Why do you speak to them in parables?”
- Jesus explains:
- Verse 11: “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted.”
- Verse 13: “This is why I speak to them in parables: Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.”
- Verse 14-15: Fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy about dull hearts, closed ears, and blind eyes, preventing understanding and healing.
- Verse 16-17: “But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”
- Key Point:
- Disciples are granted understanding of God’s mysteries, while others remain blind due to a lack of humility or commitment.
- Throughout biblical history, many failed to grasp God’s truth because they were not disciples.
- Even some of Jesus’ associates (e.g., Judas) and co-workers of Paul missed the point.
- Application:
- Without a disciple’s mindset, one risks missing God’s truth and falling into deception.
- Discipleship requires humility, hunger, and a contrite heart to receive enlightenment from the Holy Spirit.
- Isaiah 57:15 (implied) – God dwells with the humble and contrite to revive their hearts.
E. Characteristics of a Disciple
- Key Point: A fervent-hearted disciple cannot be deceived because their love for Jesus and commitment to His Word protects them.
- Scripture References:
- Hebrews 12:1-2 – “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”
- Disciples run the race set before them, fixing their eyes on Jesus to avoid deception and live a glorious life.
- 1 Corinthians 15:19 (Amplified) – “If we who are [abiding] in Christ have hope only in this life [and that is all], then we are of all people most miserable and to be pitied.”
- A disciple’s hope extends beyond this life to resurrection and eternity with Jesus, not worldly concerns like money or comfort.
- Hebrews 5:7 – “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.”
- Jesus’ life of dependence on God, even in weakness, is the model for disciples.
- Hebrews 4:15 – “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.”
- Jesus was tempted in all points, sympathizing with our struggles, encouraging disciples to seek His strength.
- Philippians 4:11-13 – “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
- Paul, as a disciple, learned contentment in all circumstances by following Jesus’ example, relying on God’s strength.
- Application:
- Discipleship involves learning to say “no” to the flesh and worldly desires through the power of the Holy Spirit.
- A disciple’s life is supernatural, marked by peace and provision despite troubles, as seen in the lives of Jesus, Paul, and godly examples like Brother Ian and Brother Zach.
- Example: John Wesley’s consistent lifestyle, whether in poverty or prosperity, reflects a disciple’s unwavering focus on God’s kingdom.
F. Avoiding Deception in the Last Days
- Scripture Reference:
- Matthew 24:12-13 – “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.”
- Lawlessness increases, causing love to grow cold, but disciples endure in love to avoid deception.
- 1 Peter 2:23 – “When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.”
- Jesus entrusted justice to God, modeling how disciples should respond to injustice.
- Psalm 73 (implied) – The righteous may question why the wicked prosper, but God reveals justice in His sanctuary.
- Jude 1:21 – “Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”
- Staying in God’s love protects disciples from deception.
- Key Point:
- Disciples maintain fervent love despite lawlessness, trusting God for justice, as Jesus did even for those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34 – “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”).
- Persecuting the church is equivalent to persecuting Jesus, but serving the church is serving Him.
G. Jesus’ Definition of a Disciple
- Key Point: Jesus used the word “disciple” three times in John’s Gospel, providing clear conditions for discipleship.
- Scripture References:
- John 8:31 – “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.’”
- Condition: Abiding in Jesus’ Word through diligent seeking and obedience.
- Contrast: Believing is not enough; discipleship requires learning and following.
- John 2:23-25 (implied) – Many believed in Jesus because of miracles, but He did not entrust Himself to them, knowing their hearts lacked true discipleship.
- John 13:35 – “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
- Condition: Demonstrating love for others, even difficult people, as Jesus did by washing Judas’ feet.
- John 15:8 – “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”
- Condition: Bearing fruit of the Spirit, reflecting Christlike character and attitudes (Philippians 2:5 – “Have the same mindset as Christ Jesus”).
- Application:
- These conditions test one’s discipleship in secret life, not just public actions.
- Matthew 7:24-27 (implied) – A wise disciple hears and acts on Jesus’ words, building on the rock.
- Matthew 7:13-14 (implied) – The narrow way of discipleship is found by few, requiring commitment beyond casual belief.
H. Invitation to Discipleship
- Scripture Reference:
- Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
- Key Point:
- Jesus invites all to become disciples, promising rest and guidance through His example.
- Discipleship is not burdensome but liberating when pursued with a humble, teachable heart.
- Application:
- Desire to be a true disciple, recognized by Satan as a threat, like Job (Job 1:8 – “Have you considered my servant Job?”).
- Gather with other disciples to inspire and be inspired, helping one another grow as witnesses for Christ.
- Personal Motivation: Brother John attends church not out of duty but to meet disciples, grow closer to Jesus, and help others become better disciples.
I. Closing Song: “Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus”
- Lyrics Summary:
- Calls believers to stand as soldiers of the cross, lifting Jesus’ banner.
- Promises victory through Christ’s leadership, urging courage against foes.
- Emphasizes reliance on Christ’s strength, not human effort, and perseverance in prayer.
- Assures that the battle is temporary, leading to eternal victory and a crown of life for those who overcome.
- Purpose: Reinforces the call to bold, faithful discipleship.
II. Brother John Polo’s Sharing
A. Introduction: Jesus and Paul as Examples
- Key Point: Jesus set the ultimate example of discipleship, and Paul, as His disciple, modeled a life others could follow.
- Scripture Reference:
- 1 Corinthians 11:1 – “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
- Application:
- Disciples learn and follow Jesus, enabling them to say, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”
- This is a calling for all believers, not just leaders, to live exemplary lives.
B. Personal Reflection: Being a Disciple
- Key Point: Brother John Polo was challenged by someone wanting to follow him, prompting reflection on whether he could confidently say, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”
- Application:
- As a father, he desires to model discipleship so his children can follow him as he follows Jesus.
- Discipleship is not about pride but fulfilling one’s calling to be a learner and follower.
C. Discipleship for Young People
- Scripture Reference:
- Acts 16:1 – “Paul came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived.”
- Timothy was a young disciple, showing that youth is no barrier to discipleship.
- 1 Timothy 4:12 – “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
- Timothy was called to be an example to believers, a challenge for all disciples, regardless of age.
- Key Point:
- Young people can be disciples, learning from Jesus and godly examples to become models in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
- These qualities align with the fruit of the Spirit, confirming true discipleship (John 15:8).
D. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Discipleship
- Scripture Reference:
- Acts 19:1-2 – “While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples and asked them, ‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?’ They answered, ‘No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.’”
- These disciples had John’s baptism but lacked the Holy Spirit, limiting their effectiveness.
- Hebrews 5:7 – Reiterated from Brother John Pereira’s message, emphasizing Jesus’ dependence on God through prayer.
- Hebrews 5:11 – “We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand.”
- Dullness of hearing prevents growth in discipleship.
- Key Point:
- Without the Holy Spirit’s fullness, even baptized believers cannot be effective disciples.
- Like Jesus, disciples must cry out for the Spirit’s anointing to overcome dullness and live powerfully for God.
- Application:
- Seek the Holy Spirit to avoid becoming dull of hearing (Matthew 13:15) and to be an effective witness.
- A Spirit-filled disciple can confidently follow Jesus and invite others to follow them.
E. Closing Prayer
- Prayer: “May God help each one of us” to be effective disciples, learning from Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit, and able to say, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”
- Amen.
Summary of Key Themes
- Discipleship vs. Belief:
- Being a Christian requires being a disciple—a learner and follower of Jesus—not just a believer.
- Jesus’ conditions for discipleship: abide in His Word (John 8:31), love one another (John 13:35), and bear fruit (John 15:8).
- Avoiding Deception:
- Deception is assuming one is spiritually secure without true discipleship.
- A fervent-hearted disciple, filled with the Holy Spirit, is protected from deception by humility, love, and obedience.
- Jesus as the Model:
- Jesus lived dependently on God’s Word and Spirit, enduring temptation and weakness to fulfill His purpose.
- Disciples pattern their lives after Him, fixing their eyes on Him (Hebrews 12:2) and trusting God for justice and provision.
- Role of the Holy Spirit:
- The Spirit convicts, enlightens, and empowers disciples to say “no” to the flesh and live effectively for Christ.
- Without the Spirit, even sincere believers remain ineffective.
- Practical Discipleship:
- Involves humility, hunger for God’s Word, love despite lawlessness, and contentment in all circumstances.
- Disciples inspire and learn from one another, gathering to grow and help others see Jesus more clearly.
Bible References (Complete List)
- Matthew 4:4 – Living by God’s Word.
- Acts 10:38 – Jesus’ anointing to set captives free.
- 2 Corinthians 4:4 – Satan blinding unbelievers.
- Ephesians 1:17-18 (implied) – Prayer for enlightenment.
- Acts 11:26 – Disciples first called Christians.
- Matthew 13:3-9, 10-17 – Parable of the Sower and explanation of parables.
- Isaiah 57:15 (implied) – God with the humble and contrite.
- Hebrews 12:1-2 – Running the race, fixing eyes on Jesus.
- 1 Corinthians 15:19 – Hope beyond this life.
- Hebrews 5:7 – Jesus’ prayers and dependence.
- Hebrews 4:15 – Jesus tempted yet sinless.
- Philippians 4:11-13 – Contentment in all circumstances.
- Matthew 24:12-13 – Enduring in love to avoid deception.
- 1 Peter 2:23 – Jesus entrusting justice to God.
- Psalm 73 (implied) – God’s justice for the righteous.
- Jude 1:21 – Staying in God’s love.
- John 8:31 – Abiding in Jesus’ Word.
- John 13:35 – Loving one another.
- John 15:8 – Bearing fruit.
- John 2:23-25 (implied) – Jesus not entrusting Himself to shallow believers.
- Matthew 7:24-27 (implied) – Acting on Jesus’ words.
- Matthew 7:13-14 (implied) – The narrow way.
- Matthew 11:28-30 – Jesus’ invitation to learn from Him.
- Job 1:8 (implied) – God’s testimony about Job.
- 1 Corinthians 11:1 – Paul’s example as a disciple.
- Acts 16:1 – Timothy as a young disciple.
- 1 Timothy 4:12 – Setting an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, purity.
- Acts 19:1-2 – Disciples needing the Holy Spirit.
- Hebrews 5:11 – Warning against dullness of hearing.
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