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There is an ongoing discussion about the need for true discipleship and the power of individuals who are open to learning. The importance of exposing families and future generations to foundational truths is emphasized as a means to set individuals free.
Lain Hesketh raises a critical question: "Are we looking for convergence or conversion?" He elaborates, "We all have a story to tell, experiences that have shaped us and left a mark on us. And not all of these experiences are good! We have character traits that are part of who we are, but not all of this reflects the image of God in which we are created." Discipleship involves an ongoing transformative process led by the Holy Spirit, aiming to make individuals more Christ-like. This transformation cannot be separated from participation in missions.
Hesketh explains that terms like 'journey' or 'process' often describe discipleship to Jesus. Sanctification, or being made holy, is essential for believers just as it was for Jesus' first followers. However, he warns against merely modifying external behaviors to fit cultural norms: "Convergence happens when we take a little bit of everything and form a way of following Jesus in our own image until it eventually looks nothing like the ‘Jesus’ way."
Gary Gibbs, Director of REACH, describes evangelism as a 'process-decision-process,' where people move from unbelief to belief through genuine confession of faith in Jesus. This conversion signifies leaving behind an old life and embracing new life (John 3:16-17; 2 Cor. 5:17). Faith in Jesus leads to internal transformation rather than superficial behavior changes.
The significance lies in bearing witness to the resurrection power of Jesus. Conversion matters because it represents liberation from sin and death's grip, enabling believers to live life as intended by God.
Pastor Cleddie Keith shares his personal experience with weekly communion as part of his discipleship journey. He states that when taken devotionally, communion offers him an open Heaven experience and invites others in his congregation to share this revival moment.
Keith emphasizes that this discipline serves as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice and encourages believers to crucify their flesh daily rather than hiding it within religious practices.
