THE DISCIPLE'S LIFESTYLE



By Rev. Michael Benson Ajayi 

"All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s great blessing was upon them all. There were no needy people among them, because those who owned land or houses would sell them and bring the money to the apostles to give to those in need."Acts of the Apostles 4:32‭-‬35 NLT

  The disciple of Jesus Christ is sold out to him and lives to glorify Jesus Christ. Whenever disadvantaged members of society join the church their welfare becomes part of the disciple's responsibilities. This includes feeding ,clothing ,transportation to and from church meetings , medical care , school fees until they are able to find sound footing . 

    The early church gave money to the disciples to carry out these responsibilities  and whenever the resources were not enough  disciples are expected to work or engage in business to support the work of ministry ( 2Thess3:6-10) .The bible says "Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow."Matthew 5:42 NLT and.  “If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry.” Luke 3:11 NLT

Disciples ensure the equitable distribution of available resources amongst believers. Those in government  are to make provisions for the security of God's people and ensuring prompt payments of complete salaries and  creation of welfare schemes for the poor.. The scriptures says  "And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need."Acts of the Apostles 2:44‭-‬45 NLT

 Disciples of Jesus Christ are always at the forefront of the fight against corruption ( Acts5). Corruption results in poverty and hinders the spread of the gospel. Some persons hate God and the church because of corruption induced poverty. 

   A disciple must be able to adapt to hardship . Satan frustrates disciples by starving them financially through selfish church members whose heart are sold to him by their love for money . At such times the bible says  " Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 2:3 NLT ( 2Cor 11:23-28) The disciples must also be willing to lay down his or her life for the love of God and humanity .(Acts 21;13, Phil1:20)

   Discipleship requires an unalloyed continuance in God's word ( John 8:31) and enthusiasm with unswerving zeal  for the course of spreading the gospel .( Eccl 9:10, Rev. 3:15, Gal. 4:18) 

   Discipleship comes with persecution , The bible says "  Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12 NLT

 Suffering for Christ is a privilege " For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him." Philippians 1:29 NLT

  Discipleship comes with benefits . They are the chosen of the lord (Matt22:14) and honoured of the heavenly father (John12:26b)  They shall be given power over nations (Rev.2:26-28) . A disciple is a man or woman of great faith for signs and wonders .

Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive  him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power to make progress in the face of  strong challenges in Jesus name. 

 +2348035536911, +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com


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