Principles of Discipleship
Bible Text: I Kings 19:19-21 | Preacher: Alan Conner | Series: 1 Kings, 2006
Northwest Bible Church – Sept. 3, 2006 – 1&2 Kings Series – Worship Service – Alan Conner
1 Kings 19:19-21
Principles of Discipleship
Intro
Introduction to Elisha – Elisha – from Abel-meholah (v. 16) in the upper Jordan valley, probably a young man when called by Elijah. Fitting name for a disciple, means “My God is salvation.”
Called by God
1) The divine call.
God called Elisha.
God chose Elisha.
Each and every disciple of Jesus Christ is also called by God. (Jn. 10:3; 15:16; Rom. 8:28-30). This election is not only for salvation but also for service.
Difference between “external call of the gospel” and the “inward effectual call of the Spirit.”
2) The mantle of Elijah.
Thus, Elijah’s mantle was the insignia of his prophetic office and when thrown around Elisha’s shoulders indicated an transfer of prestige and authority, a new leader.
Application: As a Christian, you have been called to God both for salvation and for service. Your calling is a HOLY CALLING (2 Tim. 1:9), HEAVENLY CALLING (Heb. 3:1), and a HIGH CALLING (Phil. 3:14).
The Cost of Discipleship
1) FINANCES
a) Elisha’s wealth – 12 pairs of oxen (v. 19).
b) Elisha’s response (v. 20a).
1) His joy in his new calling.
2) He was not planning on ever returning to work the soil.
2) FAMILY
a) Elisha’s affection for his parents (v. 20).
Some think Elisha is balking in his commitment, similar to: Lk. 9:61-62.
But these are not the same.
b) Family idolatry. Mt. 10:37; Lk. 14:26.
c) Elijah’s response – “Go back again, for what have I done to you?”
Meaning?
3) FREEDOM FROM HARM
Remember Jezebel was a prophet killer!
Disciples must count the cost that the world will hate us.
Sum: The Christian life is one of total commitment to Christ. M. Luther – A religion that gives nothing, costs nothing, and suffers nothing, is worth nothing. DISCIPLES COUNT THE COST.
Follow the Savior
Our following is not physical but spiritual. We strive by God’s grace to walk, live, think, speak, and act according to the teachings of Christ. OUR CALLING MUST CONTROL OUR CONDUCT. Luke 9:23 And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” DISCIPLES ARE FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST.
Serve the Savior
Elisha began as Elijah’s servant, apprentice. Guess how Elisha served Elijah? 2 Kings 3:11. DISCIPLES ARE SERVANTS OF CHRIST.
Conclusion
“Be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you”. 2 Pet. 1:10.
A WORD TO STRUGGLING DISCIPLES.
1) Confess ____________________________.
2) Begin _______________________________.
3) Be confident _________________________.