DISCIPLESHIP DICTATES NEVER CHANGE! By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Luke 9:23 - "Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'"
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Introduction
True discipleship requires unwavering commitment to the standards set by Jesus Christ. These standards are timeless and apply to every generation. However, in modern times, many have been led astray by societal changes, technological advancements, and distorted teachings that seek to alter the original call of Christ. This teaching aims to reaffirm the unchanging nature of discipleship, expose the deceptive influences corrupting the faith, and call believers back to the path of righteousness.
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The Call to Total Commitment
When He gave the Call to All, it meant total abandonment of the former lifestyle and complete commitment to the standards He declared and demonstrated.
Jesus calls His followers to leave behind their old ways and fully commit to the path of righteousness. His standards have not changed, and true discipleship demands the same level of commitment today as it did when Christ walked the earth.
Matthew 16:24 - "Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'"
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The Deception of Modern Ideologies
The advancement of technology and the reversal in sexual identity roles have led many to falsely assume that God's standards have changed.
Society has attempted to redefine moral and spiritual standards, pushing ideologies that contradict biblical truth. Many leaders today promote a message that feminizes men and encourages women to forsake their God-given identity. This is not the work of God but the deception of the enemy.
Romans 12:2 - "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
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The Corruption Within the Church
Sadly, many churches have fallen away from God and have adopted the standards of the world.
Instead of upholding the truth, some churches have embraced worldly philosophies. They have silenced the Holy Spirit’s voice and instead listen to the voices of deception. This has led to confusion, spiritual weakness, and the spread of false teachings.
2 Timothy 4:3-4 - "For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."
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The Influence of Demonic Teachings
When those meant to follow the Holy Spirit receive instructions from demons, they fall under the coverings of perversity, diversity, and insanity.
False teachings have crept into the body of Christ, leading many into confusion and spiritual decline. Those who embrace these teachings experience continuous frustration and turmoil because they have strayed from God’s truth.
1 Timothy 4:1 - "The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons."
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The Path to True Discipleship
True disciples must walk the narrow path, casting off former habits and submitting their thoughts to the Holy Spirit.
Those who genuinely seek to follow Christ must reject worldly influences and commit fully to His teachings. They must allow the Holy Spirit to guide their thoughts and actions, leading them on the path of righteousness.
Matthew 7:13-14 - "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."
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Summary
1. Discipleship requires total commitment and abandoning the old way of life.
2. The world has attempted to redefine biblical truth, leading many astray.
3. Many churches have compromised and embraced false teachings.
4. Demonic influences promote deception, causing confusion among believers.
5. True discipleship requires submission to the Holy Spirit and walking the narrow path.
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Conclusion
God's standards have never changed, and they never will. The call to discipleship remains the same: to deny oneself, take up the cross, and follow Christ wholeheartedly. The world may offer alternative ideologies, but true believers must remain steadfast in the truth.
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Call to Action
Examine your walk with Christ today. Are you truly committed to His teachings, or have you been influenced by worldly ideologies? Choose today to follow the narrow path and uphold God’s unchanging standards.
Joshua 24:15 - "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."
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Final Word of Encouragement
No matter how far the world drifts from God’s truth, His faithful ones will always remain under His protection and guidance. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, and He will lead you safely on the path of righteousness.
Hebrews 12:2 - "Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
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Salvation Prayer
If you have never given your life to Christ or you want to recommit your life to Him, pray this prayer:
Heavenly Father, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You. Forgive me, cleanse me, and make me a new creation. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to walk in Your ways. I declare that Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
