A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

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A Compe l l i ng Tes t imony

VI. Connections for Urban Ministry Today

Matt. 11.27-30 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. [28] Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

What we have now rediscovered, with a good deal of understandable enthusiasm, is that the same principles, which apply to science and athletics and music, apply equally to our religious experience. Once it was modish to claim absolute freedom in such matters, looking with condescension on those who were bound by a rule, but such conde scension is now out of date. We cannot help but see that those who have a rule to live by seem to have more power available. . . . We are beginning to see the wonderful truth that a Christian is one who is harnessed, wearing Christ’s yoke and thereby renouncing empty freedom. We see new significance in the Christian teaching that, whereas the way which leads to destruction is broad, the way which leads to life is intrinsically narrow. The Christian we now know, is not one who does as he pleases, but one, instead, who seeks to please his Lord. ~ Elton Trueblood. The Yoke of Christ . pp. 130-31.

Answer the following questions openly and honestly about the dimensions of discipline covered in this session, relating them both to your personal walk with and witness to Christ where you live.

A. Connection to your personal discipleship

1. Do I understand the self-indulgent nature of our society? How do the rhythms and melodies of the society play out in my life today? Have I committed myself to live a disciplined life in Christ to live worthy of him?

2. Am I certain of my conversion and standing before God in Christ? How well do I understand the truth of my position before God as I live out my call to God?

3. What is my level of understanding regarding the laws of sowing and reaping? How am I living consistently with these laws today as I strive to become more like Christ in my daily life?