Following Jesus into ‘Connexity’

Today's Three-minute Bible Study
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Title: Following Jesus into ‘Connexity’
Keywords: “community” “connection”
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Passage: Mark 3:14*

And He appointed twelve, that they might be WITH HIM

Questions

1. The verse above describes Jesus’ method of training His twelve apostles. According to that verse, what is the purpose of His appointment?

 

2. What implications do you see for the training of disciples today, from this verse?

 

Practical help

Jesus invited His followers into a world of community and connection (what Amazon.com refers to as “connexity”). Having the twelve “with Him” guaranteed access to His loving ways, to His lifestyle, and to a high degree of accountability.

Jesus made sure that the disciples were with Him at just about every major juncture of His three year ministry. They were with Him at miracles (walking on water, feeding the 5,000), at teaching times (Sermon on the Mount), at Gospel conversations (rich young ruler), and confrontations with enemies (with Pharisees, Saduccees, and scribes). They learned by watching and observing Him at work.

And the plan worked! With the exception of Judas Iscariot, the Apostles became fully-formed men of faith. What does His strategy say to disciples like you and me today?

While it is obviously impossible to be “with Him” physically today, as they were then, it is possible to be “with fellow followers.” Being with fellow members of the Body of Christ is one of the best ways to be discipled today, because the various Christians we know will bring differing aspects of Christ-following discipleship to bear on our lives.

Are you “connected” with fellow followers? Are you living in community with fellow followers? The Christian life was never meant to be lived in isolation. Isolation breeds problems that are best overcome when friends talk. Sexual strugglers find real help when they engage with fellow followers who are willing to pray, converse, and help with an action plan.

Why not take a step into “connexity” today? Reach out to a Christian friend and receive God’s help to stand firm against the pull of Internet porn!

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*"Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, © Copyright The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995. Used by permission."