REASON #18 - Sunday School Has The Goal Of Developing True Disciples For Jesus Christ
One day as Jesus was walking along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother, Andrew, fishing with a net, for they were commercial fishermen. Jesus called out to them, “Come, be my disciples, and I will show you how to fish for people!” (Mark 1:16 & 17)
In the fifth chapter of Luke’s gospel, we read about Jesus calling Simon Peter to follow him and be one of his disciples. Peter was a simple fisherman, with no real knowledge or training necessary to be one of the original Christian leaders, but look at what Jesus says to him: “Don’t be afraid! From now on you’ll be fishing for people.”
What is a disciple? Is it a person who is content to be a “keeper of the fishbowl?” Or, is it someone who has truly become a person who is “fishing for people?” Becoming a disciple is a process. It’s not something that happens instantly when a person asks Jesus to come and live in their heart. Rather, it is like traveling on a road, heading toward a destination – a destination that leads one closer and closer each day to being the person that Jesus Christ wants us to be.
A disciple is a “seeker,” a person who is striving to deepen their faith and commitment to Christ each day. And, what should a disciple do as they try to get closer to Christ each day? We should read the Bible more, pray more, talk with other Christians more, read Christian books and magazines, listen to Christian music, radio and TV, and – very important – be in Sunday school and other Bible study groups as often as possible!
Questions To Think About: Do you consider yourself to be a “true disciple?” What can you do to deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ?
Prayer Suggestion: Pray for spiritual growth and revival within your church and community.
A Call To Action: Use your computer (or have someone else) design and print invitation cards that are customized for your church and Sunday school. Be sure each card has your church name, address and the times of your services.