Essential Preparation

   The job applicant sat before the corporate interviewer. The question was clear and appropriate --  “What education have you received that qualifies you for this position?”
   The candidates answer was also clear, and disqualifying -- “I have received no training; but I’m sure I will learn after I get hired.”
   Here we find an overlap with discipleship. Training is essential in order to qualify for such a pivotal position. If one does not know the teachings of Christ, how can they proclaim His message with any degree of accuracy or authority?  
   An essential ingredient for active work for Christ is to be well-versed in His teachings, as shared in the four Gospels. What is vital is the reading, and reflecting upon the words Jesus spoke…along with an understanding of Jesus’ role in God’s plan of salvation. One cannot comprehend a would-be disciple’s role who does not know the “Gospel in a Nutshell” as shared by Christ -- “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.””  (John 3:16)
   Jesus also said this regarding true discipleship -- “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.”  (John 8:31b).
   What we are referring to goes beyond Bible reading. It is Bible refle ...