True Church Discipleship (4)

The last three weeks, I have shared from an article by Dr. Thom S. Rainer, President and CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources. In his article titled “Seven Indicators Of True Church Discipleship,” his sixth indicator of discipleship was “members are involved in ministry and missions.” We are to be involved in activities that cause us to look beyond ourselves and care for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of others. Involvement in church is the key! We get out of church what we put into it! His seventh indicator was new members attend an entry class. The class should provide information about the church and establish the expectations of members. Some people think high expectations will run people off, but research shows just the opposite. “Higher expectations bring more positive behavioral patterns. People want to be a part of something that makes a difference.” If we expect little from each other, then we will get little. If we raise the bar of expectations, then most members will respond positively. As we engage in daily Bible reading, smallgroup Bible study, evangelism, corporate worship, service and ministry, outreach and missions, and we give generously…we will become more effective disciples for Christ, and Emmanuel will grow stronger and become healthier. Emmanuel wants to see people grow into fully committed followers of Jesus. Let’s be faithful in our service and ministry…let’s raise the bar of expectation.
-Bro. David