DISCIPLING THE FUTURE

[Albert Finch]

Matthew 5:1,2 - "...and when He was set, his DISCIPLES came unto him: And He opend his mouth and TAUGHT them...."

 

As much as we love, thank God for, and honor the ministries of the saints of the past, we need to reach for the MINISTRY of Jesus in His BODY—in the fullness of redemptive character and power today. The entire earth is groaning in anticipation to see this type of ministry in the sons and daughters of God.

We can talk all about the next generation and tell them what they should become until we are blue in the face, but unless we commit ourselves to them (by one-on-one discipleship) they will continue to be held back—or like many of us, try it alone. It's a long, lonely journey without the DISCIPLESHIP of those in the Church who really love and are committed to help them rise up into their calling. To date, this is not a priority in the Church.

Many young men and women (also NEW BELIEVERS) intentionally look and ask for mentoring relationships in the Body of Christ. They want what Elisha had—relationship with one who has experience in their calling (also walking in the Spirit, who they are in Christ, understanding their inheritance in Christ, their right standing with God, etc) to help them step up and into theirs.

Elijah made a commitment to help Elisha rise up into his calling, and Elisha stuck close to Elijah for as long as he could—serving, gleaning, and ministering alongside of him—and then received a double portion. It's time for the next generation to rise up and begin to step into their inheritance. If we do it right, perhaps they will do the same for the next generation.

 

Hebrews 12:1,2 - "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses....let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith,..."

 

2 Timothy 2:2 - "You should teach people who you can trust the things you and many other have heard me say. Then they will be able to teach others."

 

Attaining Christlikeness, using Jesus' example of discipling, the discipleship of others is a part of who we are in Christ.