Staying Spiritually Fit
The idea of discipleship, holistically, enables each of us to stay spiritually fit. We simply cannot do it alone. We need those who look up to us, inspiring us to set a Godly example. We need those who will disciple us, training us in the deep things of the faith.
The individualism that defines every motive within the American culture causes us to naturally seek a personal relationship with God on solely an individual level. This centers our focus within the relationship on ourselves, while also limiting our fellowship with the rest of God’s body. This means that much of our view of Christianity is anti-Christian by default. We literally do need one another in order to experience the relationship we have with God to the fullest. We literally do need one another in order to impact the world in a positive way for the glory of God our Father. We cannot advance spiritually without one another. We cannot advance the kingdom of God without one another.
And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Acts 2:42-47 ESV
The early Church under the authority of Jesus Christ, devoted itself entirely to the teachings of the apostles: the same apostles who received their teaching from Christ. They also devoted themselves entirely to fellowship. They spent time with one another: discipling one another, building relationships with one another, praying with one another and supporting one another. They attended church together and worshipped with one another. They resolved to look on all people with favor. As a result, God not only drew those people closer to Himself, but He also added to their number day by day.
Communal discipleship is necessary if we are to see the maturity and growth within God’s Church that we hope to see. It is necessary if we, God’s people in America, are to see another great revival before Christ’s return. It is necessary if we are to pursue God as we ought to.