Opening Thoughts: Let’s begin by being honest, discipleship is not easy – in fact it’s probably one of the most challenging things you could ever do. Jesus calls us to die to ourselves and follow in his footsteps, and to do that everyday. As we look into what discipleship is, it’s important to note that there is no way we could say enough in this short little study, but I hope this introduction will help you explore Christ’s challenging but incredible calling to follow him. The simple definition of discipleship is becoming more like Christ, but how to do that involves a lot of unpacking. Part of our unpacking is we are going to look at spiritual habits or practices. At some point you will leave the youth group and my hope is that developing spiritual practices will help you grow on your own, and sustain your growth when you are no longer apart of the youth group. I want you to be committed to youth group and I hope and pray it is a transformative time in your life, but I want you to be more committed to spiritual practices 2 (which can include being active in youth group) so when you leave you will have the tools and resources necessary to continue your spiritual growth in becoming more like Christ. Three words that do a great job of sharing what discipleship is are “on our own.” This does not mean that we become more like Christ apart from the community, for that is impossible, but that we take responsibility for our own spiritual growth. We study scripture, we pray, we serve, we give, we continue learning, we love and we take ownership in doing this. Discipleship is a path and a journey. It is not a destination. There is not a moment we say “Hooray, I am now a disciple, I made it and I don’t have to do anything anymore!” Instead, we continue on the path of what is called sanctification, which is a fancy word for God’s grace working us to make us more like Christ. Jesus called people to “follow him.” Not to simply attend church or believe certain things, but to follow on his path. It is an invitation to a deep adventure and profound life.
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