True Discipleship: Following Our Master (Christian Teaching for Believers)

A. W. Tozer asserts that anything less than total commitment to Christ results in futility and loss. Receiving Christ, embracing Christianity, and acknowledging God all necessitate surrender and full obedience; there is no getting around this truth. Today, the essence of Christianity has been diluted into a cheap imitation of the profound faith that God intended for it to be. The contemporary understanding of 'accepting' Jesus has evolved from a revolutionary commitment to a mere impulsive choice, devoid of pain and cost, and lacking any true concept of discipleship.

For anyone who identifies as a Christian, the choice is clear. In fact, according to Tozer in True Discipleship, there is no real choice at all— a Christian is someone who follows Christ, and that is the only option available. The primary purpose of redemption is to reconnect humanity with God, restoring the intimacy that once existed. Therefore, the aim for every believer should be to pursue an ever-deeper relationship with their Creator.

In addition, we must rekindle our hope in His return. This anticipation should elevate our lives, drawing us away from earthly concerns and focusing on the promises of a heavenly future. With God as our refuge and source of strength, our desire should be to live in a way that pleases our Savior and Lord. This longing for divine approval guides our actions and decisions as we navigate our Christian journey.

Tozer's words compel us to reflect on the depth of our commitment. A surface-level acceptance of Christ simply won't suffice. True discipleship calls for a transformative relationship grounded in understanding and obedience. This journey requires that we embrace the Cross, recognizing that true faith is often accompanied by challenges and sacrifices that test our resolve.

Christ’s invitation extends beyond mere acceptance; it demands a complete surrender of our lives to His will. This means letting go of our personal agendas and ambitions and aligning ourselves with God's purpose for our lives. Discipleship involves taking up our own Cross and following Him faithfully, making choices that reflect our dedication and love for Christ.

As we strive for deeper communion with God, it's essential to acknowledge that our hope is not anchored in worldly aspirations but in the promise of Christ’s return. With eyes set on eternity, we can live each day in anticipation of His coming, allowing that hope to influence our daily lives and interactions.

Ultimately, our pursuit of closeness with God should inspire a life that radiates His love and grace, encouraging others to embark on their own journeys of faith. By reclaiming the true essence of Christianity, we can fulfill the purpose for which we were created: to dwell in communion with our Creator and reflect His glory to the world. In doing so, we not only find fulfillment for ourselves but also contribute to the broader mission of spreading the Gospel and exemplifying the beauty of a life wholly dedicated to Christ.

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