Thoughts on Discipleship by Dr. W. A. Dillard - HTML preview

RECIPE FOR SPIRITUALITY

Among those who are dedicated followers of Christ Jesus, even extending to those who might be classified as nominal Christians, there is a common desire often expressed and somewhat diligently sought. It is to be a truly spiritual disciple. Tragically, men turn to the devices of flesh in the pursuit of greater levels of spirituality. Those things do indeed generate a considerable amount of religious activity: greater offerings, more determination to wear a clean mind, and abandon common carnal thinking and doing. Many such activities may be commendable, but it is also possible that in spite of some laudable activity, spirituality is being sought in all the wrong places. Are you thinking with me about this?

God’s people should be aware of a certain passage of scripture, and they should put its suggested activity into action. I refer to I Corinthians 14:12, “Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.” What a marvelously simple, but profound idea. Look at it more closely:

1. “Zealous” means to be boiling hot as in an obsessive pursuit. 2. “Spiritual gifts” means the possession of recognized spirituality so bestowed by the Lord. 3. “Seek” means to earnestly diligently search. 4. “Excel” means to do excellently, far above the average. 5. “Edify” means to build up, to enhance reputation. 6. “Church” means the saved, baptized, called out assembly of the Lord Jesus Christ.

With an understanding of the meaning of the terms of this precious verse of scripture, we may restate it in amplified terms in the following manner: “Even so ye (you, plural) are boiling hot in desire and pursuit of spiritual gifts that you and others identify as coming from God, earnestly, diligently search out ways and means to do much more than the average disciple to build up the reputation of the called out assembly of Jesus (the church) as a spiritual institution in the community.” What a wonderful, practical way our Lord has chosen to elevate one’s spirituality. Every church member ought to be so engaged.

FOR THOUGHT: Faith, facts, and feelings play large roles in discipleship. Too often they are out of order. So, what guides your receptions and decisions about eternal things? Is it what makes you feel good? Is it faith, first? Will you seek bedrock truth (facts), then base your faith on that, and allow that to produce the proper joy (feelings)?