Disciples Making Disciples: Bible Reading
Jesus said, “…go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you…”(Matthew 28:18-20).
We are called to make disciples who make disciples and we recently received a Discipleship Map to help us live out this calling. This tool is one of many gifts of our belonging to The Alliance of Reformed Churches (ARC). This map explores twelve essential qualities of a disciple who makes disciples.
The fourth essential is Bible Reading for Devotion. A disciple practices simple methods of reading the Bible for devotional purposes. This practice shifts the focus from simply “getting into the Word” to “letting the Word get into you” which transforms a daily checklist into a spiritual rhythm.
Getting into the Word treats the Bible like a destination, a task to complete, or information to master. The goal too easily becomes finishing a chapter or checking off a reading plan. Getting the Word into you treats Scripture like daily nourishment, letting it take root to reshape your character from the inside out.
- Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
- James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
God is the Potter, we are the clay. When we read the Bible, God shapes us. This is how God grows disciples who make disciples. (Dig deeper here!)
May the Lord be with you,
Pastor Kent
Kent Landhuis
Pastor of Teaching & Leadership
