CRS Keypoints: Discipleship; Discipleship is a central concept in Christianity that refers to the act of following and learning from Jesus Christ. It involves a personal commitment to Jesus as the teacher and leader, and a willingness to adhere to his teachings and example.
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The call of the first disciples and the demands of discipleship are two significant aspects that shed light on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Let’s explore these topics in detail:
(a) The Call of the First Disciples:
The Gospel accounts provide accounts of Jesus calling his first disciples. The individuals who were called by Jesus to become his disciples were:
i. Simon Peter and Andrew: Jesus encountered Simon Peter and his brother Andrew while they were fishing in the Sea of Galilee. He called them, saying, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately, they left their nets and followed Jesus. (Matthew 4:18-20; Mark 1:16-18; Luke 5:1-11)
ii. James and John: James and John, who were also fishermen, were called by Jesus alongside Simon Peter and Andrew. When Jesus called them, they were in a boat with their father, Zebedee, mending their nets. They immediately left the boat and their father to follow Jesus. (Matthew 4:21-22; Mark 1:19-20; Luke 5:10)
iii. Matthew (Levi): Matthew, a tax collector, was called by Jesus while he was sitting at the tax booth. Jesus said to him, “Follow me.” Matthew got up and followed Jesus, leaving everything behind. (Matthew 9:9; Mark 2:13-14; Luke 5:27-28)
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These accounts highlight the immediate response of the first disciples to Jesus’ call. They left their livelihoods, families, and possessions to follow Jesus, demonstrating their commitment and dedication to him as their teacher and Lord.
(b) The Demands of Discipleship:
Discipleship involves certain demands and expectations that Jesus placed upon those who chose to follow him. These demands are meant to challenge disciples and test their commitment to Jesus and his teachings. Some instances where Jesus highlighted the demands of discipleship include:
i. Counting the Cost: Jesus emphasized the need for individuals to count the cost of discipleship before making a commitment. In Matthew 8:19-22, Jesus told a potential disciple that following him requires leaving behind worldly attachments, even familial responsibilities. In Luke 9:57-62 and 14:25-33, Jesus emphasized that discipleship demands a wholehearted commitment and willingness to prioritize Jesus above all else, even personal comforts and relationships.
ii. Taking up the Cross: Jesus spoke about the necessity of taking up one’s cross to follow him. In Matthew 16:24-26 and Luke 9:23, Jesus explained that discipleship involves self-denial, surrendering one’s own desires, and being willing to face hardships and even persecution for the sake of following him.
iii. Loving God and Others: Jesus stressed the importance of loving God and others as a fundamental aspect of discipleship. In Matthew 22:36-40 and Mark 12:28-31, Jesus taught that loving God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, and loving one’s neighbor as oneself, are the greatest commandments upon which all of God’s law depends. Disciples are called to live out this love in their relationships and interactions with others.
These demands of discipleship serve as a reminder that following Jesus requires a complete reorientation of one’s life and priorities. It involves a radical commitment to Jesus and his teachings, a willingness to let go of worldly attachments, and a sacrificial love for God and others.
In conclusion, discipleship entails responding to Jesus’ call to follow him and learning from him as the ultimate teacher and leader. The first disciples exemplified immediate obedience and left everything to follow Jesus.
The demands of discipleship involve counting the cost, taking up the cross, and loving God and others wholeheartedly. Discipleship is a transformative journey that shapes one’s character and way of life in alignment with the teachings and example of Jesus.
