Saved AND Discipled

March 15

(Psalms 32:8-11 NIV) “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. {9} Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. {10} Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him. {11} Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!”

(Matthew 28:19-20 NIV) “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, {20} and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

Jesus Christ came to save sinners, but He wants more than just salvation for us. He also came to make disciples. The plan is that we be saved and discipled. Faith is an extended journey, not a trip to the corner Quick Shop. Many today have “given their life to Christ”, but their lives don’t look like it. They have failed to become disciples. Psalm 32 lists several steps to discipleship. The first is prayer; prayer that listens as much as it talks. We must also receive instruction. The twelve called Him Teacher. So should we. Jesus wants to counsel us. He’s into counsel more than control. After all, we are not horses or mules. Part of the reason so many Christians crash and burn is their refusal to accept good counsel. That has to change. We must also learn to worship the Lord. Express your love. Give Him glory. Prayer, instruction, counsel, and worship: four steps to discipleship. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day