Being with Jesus

Jesus has begun his ministry and is gathering his followers. Among those are the appointed twelve which we are told he names apostles, which means sent ones. What does he appoint them to do? 1) To be with him, spend time with him, be discipled by him, and 2) to be sent out to preach about the kingdom of God and minister with authority to cast out demons. Jesus captures two important aspects of following him here–to learn from him (discipleship) and to proclaim the Gospel wherever we are sent.
- Monica Godfrey

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ There are many followers, but only a few appointed apostles. Why do you think that is?
+ What is the connection between being discipled by Jesus and being sent by Jesus?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Are you willing to be discipled and sent by Jesus?
+ Do you have a sense for whom the Lord might be sending you to?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord, we thank you that we are equipped by you as you send us where you call us. Make us bold to speak the truth in love. Soften the hearts of those we love and interact with. Open doors for the Gospel in their hearts and in our relationships. Thank you for the Holy Spirit that goes with us and does the work of changing lives. Help us to walk faithfully with you, keeping our eyes on Jesus.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.