In this post we turn our attention to calibrate with each other about some important assumptions for our conversation on the topic of discipleship.  Scripture will guide us and provide the basis of each assumption.

• All of us require discipleship (no exceptions) – ^{2Pe 1:5} For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;
  ⁶ and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;
  ⁷ and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.
  ⁸ For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
   
• Discipleship is not optional– ^{Mt 28:18} Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
  ¹⁹ 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. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
   
• A strategy of multiplication is very important– ^{2Ti 2:2} And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.
   
• The Holy Spirit guides the process– ^{Jn 14:26} But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

 In our next post we will start a process of reflection on the purposes and techniques that Jesus used with his group of disciples.

Blessings and many thanks,

Larry