Submitting To a Leader Who Follows Jesus

Author - Emma Stanley

Well, howdy! As we wrap up another week here at the Fellowship House, I'd love to tell you about another aspect of being a true disciple of Jesus Christ. But first, an update on life here with the team. We had the joy of attending Wassailfest with the Myers and a big chunk of their community here in New Braunfels. As a rookie to wassail, I have firmly decided I'm not a fan of pineapple juice in mine. I would rather sit with a mug I know would be good instead of walking around, hoping the line you're standing in will lead to good wassail. But I'm a big proponent of trying a no-thank-you bite, or in this case, a sip, so this was a perfect time to put that to the test!

We finished building our first "sukkah" on the property. The Myers and their sweet grandkids gave it a good test run so we could move to the next one. We have also been preparing for our Chanukah, Christmas, and Anti-Semitism event this Saturday. This means lots of Cesar trimming trees and the rest of us hauling it over to the fire pit out front, which also means lots of cuts and bruises and "oh my goodness be careful"s and burning bit by bit of my eyebrows off when I'm watching the fire. Despite the whole eyebrow fiasco, we've also settled into a fine routine. I think that's been my favorite part of the week. We've really begun to see each other's strength spots and struggle spots and have been navigating those together so that we can become more efficient and end the day with a happy heart and tired eyes. All this to say, I'm excited for another week.

Let's get into our topic! Today, we dive into another of the five things disciples do: discipleship and the importance of following a leader who teaches others to walk in the footsteps of the ultimate guide, Jesus.

Now, you might wonder why people should willingly submit to a leader when they could easily navigate their spiritual life solo? Well, my friend, the answer lies in the essence of discipleship itself. It's not just about blindly following someone; it's a conscious choice to be guided and shaped by someone who has walked the path before us.

Discipleship is like having a seasoned travel guide in an unfamiliar land. Imagine exploring a new city with a local who knows all the shortcuts, hidden gems, and potential pitfalls. Similarly, a leader who has spent time studying and following the teachings of Jesus can provide valuable insights and practical wisdom.

We were created as social beings, and our spirit is no exception to this fact. Discipleship fosters a sense of community, a shared journey with fellow Jesus followers. It's about coming together, sharing experiences, and supporting one another in the pursuit of understanding and emulating the teachings of Jesus. The shared bond strengthens individual faith and encourages accountability.

Have you ever tried to learn a new skill by watching an expert? Discipleship works the same way. By observing a leader who embodies the principles of love, compassion, and forgiveness, disciples can better grasp the practical application of these teachings in their own lives. It's not just about what you know; it's about how you live it out.

Following a leader doesn't mean a smooth ride. In fact, challenges and struggles are integral to the growth process. A trusted leader can help disciples navigate these turbulent waters, providing a compass and a source of strength during difficult times.

So, how does this discipleship thing work in practice? Well, let's have a look. Firstly, it's about finding a leader whose values align with yours, someone who embodies the teachings of Jesus in a way that resonates with your heart. This doesn't mean blind allegiance; it's about discernment and a shared commitment to spiritual growth.

Now, a lot of what I'm describing fits with the role of a pastor, but this leader that you are seeking does not have to be someone with a leadership role in your church. It's not about a means of a title but a means of actively leading people to Jesus and using His teachings to do so. So, once you've found your leader, it's all about engagement. Attend teachings, participate in discussions, and build relationships within the community. Discipleship is not a passive endeavor; it's an active, dynamic process that requires your energy and commitment.

And, of course, don't forget to dive into the source material—the Bible. A good leader will always point you back to the teachings of Jesus and encourage you to explore the scriptures on your own. After all, the goal of discipleship is not to create followers of a person but followers of Christ.

So, there you have it—another little exploration into the why and how of discipleship. It's a journey of growth, community, and learning to walk in the footsteps of the one who showed us the way. So, lace up those spiritual sneakers, find your guide, and let the adventure begin!