09/26/2025
Calling All Disciples
“You did not choose Me, but I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit, and that your fruit should remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, He will give you.”
Oswald Chambers said this about discipleship, “As long as we consciously determine to be a disciple, we can be sure we are not disciples.” He quotes John 15:16, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you.” Jesus has given His disciples the command to love one another and to go and spread the gospel.
Jesus chose His disciples from all walks of life. Each one was called while going about their daily activities. His call was supernatural. We know this because each one immediately left their job and family, and without question, followed Jesus. Jesus called the Twelve, then He called many others, but not all followed Him.
We may think of ourselves as disciples, but ask yourself, “Do I remember a clear event when Jesus called me to follow Him?” This is different than accepting Christ as your Savior. We must first receive the Holy Spirit by accepting Christ as our Savior, then learn to abide in Him. Only when we begin to abide in Him can we hear the Holy Spirit’s call to follow Jesus wherever He may lead us. Being called by Jesus to follow Him means you are chosen for an eternal purpose. Does that humble you or excite you? Does it give you peace or a bit of a scare? Do you know what your purpose is in His Kingdom? It’s found in today’s Scripture passage, John 15:16. We are to be fruitful in making other disciples, followers of Christ. Our mission may be in a foreign country, or it may be in your own family or community. Jesus will show you who you are to tell. Begin by sharing with them what God has done for you. Your personal story can’t be disputed.
Jesus wants to enjoy an intimate relationship with you. He wants to make you more like Him, and less like the world. The call to be a disciple can either strengthen or drive apart family bonds. As disciples, we are called to be set apart from the world. Are you ready to face persecution, ridicule, lose friends or family members, or even die because of your commitment to follow Jesus? Are you ready?
Satan is influencing our world, and he will try his best to weaken Jesus’ disciples. We must have a strong faith, an even stronger prayer life, and keep our relationship with Jesus a priority. As disciples, we are told not to neglect coming together with other believers. A church family will be your help during troubling times, your encouragement, and a place to grow your faith. Disciples must put on the armor of God each day. The helmet of salvation keeps us safe from the enemy’s attempts to cause doubt. The breastplate of righteousness to protect our hearts from worldly temptations, and the belt of Truth to discern between good and evil. Use your shield of faith to fight off evil attitudes, thoughts, and desires, and use the Sword of the Spirit, God’s holy Word, to pray, declare, and persevere.
Again, are you ready? Let's go.
