The Intentionality of Jesus Making Disciples in John's Gospel... Part VI

Here are some more insights from John to chew on. Open your Bible to John 6.

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6:1-15 - In the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus teaches his disciples that they must trust God to provide for the needs of their ministry. This example has the power to continually spur us on to deeper levels of trust... ask yourself to what extent you trust Jesus to provide. He also teaches them that he is the new Moses providing bread in the wilderness. This means he is the Mediator of the New Covenant. Think through what it means for Jesus to be a mediator... how does that directly effect your disciple-making?

6:16-21 - Jesus teaches his disciples not to fear. Really -- don't fear. In the words of King David, "Be courageous and do it." (1 Chron. 28)

6:22-40 - Jesus tells his disciples that he is the true bread that comes from heaven. He is the very sustenance for their walk and their lives as the disciples. Anyone who cannot accept this message cannot be His disciple (41-59). If you're seeking fuel for your life and your ministry from other places, you're in for it. Be warned.

The Intentionality of Jesus Making Disciples in John's Gospel... Part V

Alright, open up your Bibles to John 5 -- it's going to be short and sweet today.

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5:19-24 - Jesus explains his submission to the authority of God. If Jesus, who is God the Son, is under authority; then how much more should we as disciples be under authority? A “disciple” who is not under authority is no disciple at all. Although it is unpopular amongst our self-seeking, self-sufficient, self-motivated culture, this is the way Jesus does business.

5:25-29 - Jesus gives the hope of the future resurrection to his disciples. Sometimes we need to paint the picture of future glory to those we disciple that they may see their future identity and hope and not lose heart. Are you painting a picture of hope to those whom you influence?

5:30-38 - Jesus’ disciples are present as Jesus rebukes the religious establishment. Jesus is clear that he is sent to proclaim the message of the Father... not irrelevant religious discourse that has no root in the gospel.

5:39-47 - A disciple must understand the Scripture. Jesus explains to those who are not His disciples (as His disciples overhear) that He is the center of the Scripture. Right now, we are in the middle of a Small Group Push. What better way to get to know the Jesus of the Scriptures than to get into a Small Group? Go to our website for more info.

Intentionality of Jesus Making Disciples in John's Gospel... Part IV

As we continue in John, Jesus' ministry heats up. It's providential that this is the scripture we're looking at now, given that the fall is typically the season of the most church growth. Yet, is the church growing the way Jesus would intend? Let's take a look at what he says and align ourselves with Him and His mission... on His terms. Open up to John chapter 4.



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4:1 - Jesus made a lot of Disciples. If there is no conversion growth, then you are not making disciples the way Jesus did. He was actively seeking and saving the lost, always concerned with the lost sheep, lost coin and lost pearl (see Luke 15) rather than pleasing and appeasing the unsatisfied religious.

4:6 - Jesus went to gathering places of the community in which he was seeking to make disciples. In this case, it was the local well. Evangelism is part of discipleship. Where are you going to accomplish this? Maybe it's time to get creative. Your cowardice might be more dire than you think.

4:7 - Jesus starts the conversation with the potential disciple talking about “non-spiritual” things. It goes to show you... kingdom investment is more about obedience (in this case, opening your mouth) than eloquence.

4:10 - Jesus moves the conversation to the spiritual realm, moving her to his person and work after establishing understanding and trust. After you begin a relationship with a seeker, make sure you know where it is you want to end up (hint: it should be Jesus).

4:14-18 - Jesus talks to her about her personal need of spiritual life and forgiveness of sin. Some people think that talking about ' felt needs' is a form of evangelical coersion. Jesus calls it conversion. Can't avoid the truth that we are people who are in great need of an all-sufficient Savior.

4:21-26 - Jesus disciples this woman in the ways of true worship and identifies himself as Savior. A good shepherd makes himself known, whether it be subtly or overtly. In this case, overtly.


4:31-38 - Jesus teaches his disciples that discipleship is about doing the will of God. The disciples are caught up in their own business and are not aware of the lost people coming their way. Jesus is concerned for the lost—not the food. The disciples are concerned about the food—not the lost. He tells them, “I sent you to reap…” Where are you in the spectrum?

4:41-42 - The one whom Jesus disciples, disciples others. It will never end with you... so don't let it.

Intentionality of Jesus Making Disciples in John's Gospel...III

After a refreshing vacation, I'm ready to get back into the scriptures with you. Open your Bibles to John chapter 3.

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3:2 - He received potential disciples and opportunities to disciple... even at unexpected or "inconvenient" times.

3:3 - Jesus explains the necessity of the new birth to become a disciple.

3:4-7 - Jesus teaches Nicodemus that dependence upon God’s regeneration is essential for discipleship.

3:8 - Discipleship is about letting the sovereign Spirit determine the effects of conversion.

3:9-15 - Discipleship pivots upon Jesus and his heavenly wisdom.

3:16-21 - The message of a disciple concerning the love of God and the redeeming work of Jesus.
3:22-29 - John the Baptist is a great example of what it looks like to be a disciple who deflects from self and points to Jesus.

3:30 - A disciple decreases while Jesus increases.

3:34 - A disciple is sent by God uttering the words of God. The message is a message that includes threats and promises.