Becoming a Community of Disciples

Resources for Application

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devout Jews of the first century, the apostle Peter would pause for morning and evening prayer, as well as prayer at noon (Acts 10:9) and at 3:00 p.m. (Acts 3:1; cf. Matt 27:46). Across the New Testament, disciples of Jesus are encouraged to be intentional about the practical ways in which we pursue our relationship with God. The example of biblical leaders provides a practical vision of what pursuing God looks like. But they do not only set an example of intentional pursuit of God—these leaders also invite us to follow their lead. Consider the texts and commands in Table 1.

Table 1: New Testament Encouragement to Pursue God

Action Believers Are Called to Do Author/s

Text

Paul, Author of Hebrews Paul, Author of Hebrews

1. Pursue holiness, righteousness and godliness.

1 Tim 6:11; Phil 3:12; 2 Tim 2:22; Heb 12:14

1 Tim 4:7−8; Tit 2:12; Heb 5:14

2. Train yourself to be godly.

3. Learn how to show godliness and be like Christ. 4. Press on to become more like Christ. 5. Cleanse yourself . . . and bring holiness to completion.

Paul

Eph 4:20; 1 Tim 5:4

Paul

Phil 3:12−16

2 Cor 7:1 cf. Ps 15

Paul

6. Put to death sinful actions.

Paul

Rom 8:13; Col 3:5

7. Put on or clothe yourself with Christ/new self.

Rom 13:14; Gal 3:27; Eph 4:24; Col 3:5−17

Paul