July 9 | Disciples Do the Work of Jesus

Series | The Life of Discipleship

Scripture | Mark 3:14, “He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach.”

Lesson 9 | Disciples Do the Work of Jesus

When disciples spend time with Jesus they get the privilege of knowing His heart for the people He has made.  Jesus loves His creation so much that He came in the flesh to die for their sins and carry their burdens.  The Bible says in Matthew 9:36, “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”  No one understands and knows the condition of the human race better than Jesus, Matthew 11:28-30.

He told the parables of the lost coin, the lost sheep, and the prodigal son to express how valuable each person is to Him, Luke 15:1-32.  Jesus said in Luke 15:10 in regards to winning one soul that, “there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” 

The disciples certainly caught His heart and passion for the lost.  Peter wrote in 2 Peter 3:9 that God “is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”  John declared that Jesus “is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world,” 1 John 2:2.

Therefore, it is obvious that if we are with Him and truly love Him we will want to be sent out to preach His Gospel (Good News) to all creation.  The word “preach” simply means, “to proclaim or publicly make known the message of Jesus.”  Preaching and proclaiming the message of Jesus isn’t just for pastors on Sundays- it is a command for every disciple seven days a week!

Therefore, as a disciple of Christ be obedient to both be with Jesus and share Jesus by preaching.  When you see it like He sees it, you will do it like He did it!

Reflection | Are you willing to publically tell people about Jesus?

Action | (1) Repent of any shyness or timidity you may have in proclaiming Jesus’ message to this world. (2) Pray for three people in your life you can preach the Gospel to this week.  (3) Lastly, find a time and place to share your faith with strangers.  For example: In a park, in front of your church, or door-to-door.   

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | 1 Chronicles 7:1-8:40, Acts 27:1-20, Psalm 7:1-17, & Proverbs 18:22. Click here to read online.