[Jesus said] “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, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
For several years now, throughout the North American Lutheran Church, it has been well noted that in order to be effective and bold witness for Christ, there must be a shift in our church culture. For years, we have lived according to a church membership mentality. Such behavior lends itself to a perception of ownership of the church rather than that of stewardship. Another aspect of the membership culture is a sense of belonging to a specific congregation rather than being a part of the church at large. The culture of membership bears little fruit for the kingdom of God. Instead, the fruit produced is concentrated upon the perceived needs of the congregation that we might sustain our current way of existence. Hearing this, where do we as a congregation find ourselves along the road to discipleship?
During our Congregational Council Retreat, we took initial steps toward culture change by way of a brief assessment of ourselves and our congregation. In terms of discipleship, we discovered that there is much work to do. Focus was placed upon six habits of church leaders. These same habits are central to living as a disciple of Jesus Christ. To become a disciple of Jesus, one must first understand and begin living according to each behavior. Below is a brief description.
Worship – Disciples not only worship Christ regularly, they understand the purpose and benefit of worship. The chief purpose of worship is that Christians receive God’s good gifts of forgiveness and eternal life. This is the reason for our worship. The fruit of our worship is that we are strengthened in our faith, thanking God and singing his praises for all he provides. When we fail to worship, we fail to gather with God’s people and receive that which God pours out, and we miss the opportunity to bear the fruit of such gratitude.
Prayer – Disciples of Jesus follow his example of prayer. Each of us prays, of that there is no doubt. But to follow Jesus’ example means that we would be intentional in our prayer, seeking out times each day when we withdraw from others and all distractions, spending time alone in prayerful conversation with God. This means quiet time, peaceful and uninterrupted. It also includes time to be quiet and listen for God’s answer.
Study the Scriptures – Disciples of Jesus Christ study Holy Scripture each day. They spend time in the morning, afternoon or evening reading the Bible and learning the ways of God. Disciples also study with others, so that they would learn together. And finally, it is not enough that we study, but disciples know the Word of God. Disciples continue to study so that they know and understand the message of the Law and prophets. They know and can articulate to others the Gospel and guide others in their learning.
Share Faith – Disciples of Jesus Christ are those who engage in Christ’s Great Commission, sharing the good news with others whom they meet. To share your faith means that you are not only willing and able, but you are eager to tell others about God’s salvation that comes through Christ, crucified and risen. Disciples are not shy, they are bold witnesses to all that God has done and continues to do for the sake of humanity.
Serve – Disciples understand the example Jesus provided on the night he was betrayed. Before reclining at the table, Jesus took upon himself the role of a servant and washed the feet of his disciples. Understanding this, we too are to disregard our status and come to the aid of our neighbor. Disciples understand that we serve the God whom we cannot see by serving the neighbor visible to us.
Share – Finally, disciples understand that all we have within our possession is a trust from God. Our Father in heaven has gifted everyone generously, but each is gifted differently. Whether rich or poor, disciples understand that we are to share what we have with others. Our time, talent and treasure are all gifts to be shared joyfully with our neighbor so that all might see the goodness of God.
The leadership of the NALC is correct in saying we need a shift in our culture. For the sake of our community and world, we must be prepared to take on the role of being disciples of Jesus Christ. Our Lord commands us to do so. Jesus said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” Luke 9:23. A shift in culture takes time. It takes dedication and discipline. But most of all, it takes the willingness for all who claim to be followers of Jesus to take his word seriously.
This year will be one during which our sense of discipleship continues to grow. It will be one during which we as a congregation will continue to strive toward the six habits of greater discipleship. I invite you to pray with me for our congregation and the ministries that we share. I invite you to pray for me as I continue to learn more of how God is calling our congregation to engage in his mission. And finally, I promise that I will continue to pray for each of you, that you hear the call of our Lord to be his disciples and joyfully answer “Here I am Lord, send me.”
Grace to you and peace, Pastor David Nuottila
