What would you tell a New Christian as to where to start and what the goal is?
The goal of disciple?
Matthew 16:24 (KJV) Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
The goal of a sheep with the Lord as only shepherd to personally hear Him?
John 10:27 (KJV) My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
Is there a difference between being a sheep and being a disciple?
What means: disciple? vs being a sheep?
Do sheep have eternal life? or do you have to be a disciple?
Starting Point for a New Christian
For a new Christian, it's essential to understand the basics of the faith and begin their journey with foundational practices:
Scripture Reading: Begin with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) to understand the life and teachings of Jesus. The Gospel of John is often recommended for new believers due to its emphasis on who Jesus is and the nature of faith.
Prayer: Establish a habit of regular prayer, communicating with God, and developing a personal relationship with Him.
Community: Join a local church or a Christian fellowship group to grow in faith alongside other believers, receiving support, guidance, and teaching.
Baptism: If not already baptized, seek baptism as an outward sign of the inward change that has taken place through faith in Jesus Christ.
The Goal of a Disciple
In Matthew 16:24 (KJV), Jesus outlines the essence of discipleship: "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." The goal of a disciple is to follow Jesus, which involves:
Self-Denial: Putting aside personal desires and ambitions to align with God's will.
Taking Up the Cross: Embracing the challenges, sacrifices, and suffering that may come with following Christ.
Following Jesus: Obeying His teachings, imitating His example, and committing to His mission.
The Goal of a Sheep
John 10:27 (KJV) states: "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." The goal of a sheep is to:
Hear His Voice: Recognize and listen to the guidance of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
Be Known by Him: Have a personal relationship with Jesus, marked by intimacy and trust.
Follow Him: Obey and follow His leading in daily life.
Difference Between Being a Sheep and Being a Disciple
Similarities:
Relationship with Jesus: Both sheep and disciples have a relationship with Jesus, characterized by listening to His voice and following Him.
Obedience: Both roles involve following Jesus' teachings and guidance.
Differences:
Nature of Commitment:
Sheep: Represents a more general relationship with Jesus, emphasizing trust, guidance, and care.
Disciple: Implies a deeper level of commitment, involving active learning, self-denial, carrying one's cross, and participating in Jesus' mission.
Role and Responsibility:
Sheep: Focus on being led and cared for by the Shepherd.
Disciple: Focus on actively following Jesus, learning from Him, and engaging in His mission.
Eternal Life: Sheep vs. Disciple
Sheep and Eternal Life:
John 10:28 (KJV) assures, "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." This indicates that those who are Jesus' sheep have eternal life, underscoring the security and assurance of salvation for those who trust in Him.
Disciples and Eternal Life:
The path of discipleship also leads to eternal life. In John 8:31-32 (KJV), Jesus says, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Continuing in Jesus' word, a mark of true discipleship, leads to freedom and life.
Conclusion
Where to Start: Begin with reading the Gospels, establishing a prayer life, joining a Christian community, and considering baptism.
Goal of a Disciple: To deny oneself, take up the cross, and follow Jesus.
Goal of a Sheep: To hear Jesus' voice, be known by Him, and follow Him.
Difference: Being a sheep emphasizes trust and guidance, while being a disciple involves active learning, commitment, and participation in Jesus' mission.
Eternal Life: Both sheep and disciples have the promise of eternal life through their relationship with Jesus. Belief in Jesus as the Good Shepherd and following Him in faith guarantees eternal security.
For a new Christian, understanding these roles can help frame their journey of faith, encouraging them to grow in their relationship with Jesus and embrace both the trust and commitment that come with being His follower.
Just my opinion.
J.