Practicing the Way

1. Apprenticeship to Jesus: The core of Christian discipleship

Jesus is looking for apprentices in the kingdom of God.

Understanding discipleship. In first-century Jewish culture, discipleship meant apprenticing under a rabbi, not just learning information but adopting their entire way of life. Jesus, as a rabbi, called disciples to follow him in this manner. This concept of apprenticeship is often lost in modern Christianity, which can focus more on belief than on a transformative lifestyle.

Invitation to all. Unlike other rabbis of his time, Jesus extended his invitation to anyone willing to follow, regardless of their background or status. This radical inclusivity meant that discipleship was no longer limited to the religious elite but open to all who were willing to commit their lives to learning from and becoming like Jesus.

Key aspects of apprenticeship:

• Total commitment to the rabbi
• Learning through observation and imitation
• Expectation of personal transformation

2. The three goals of an apprentice: Be with, become like, do as Jesus did

To follow Jesus is to become his apprentice.

Goal 1: Be with Jesus. This involves cultivating a constant awareness of God's presence and learning to abide in Christ. It's not about physical proximity, but about developing a spiritual connection through practices like prayer, meditation, and contemplation.

Goal 2: Become like Jesus. The aim is to be transformed in character, adopting Jesus' attitudes, values, and behaviors. This process of spiritual formation is gradual and requires intentional effort and openness to God's work in one's life.

Goal 3: Do as Jesus did. Ultimately, apprentices are called to continue Jesus' mission in the world. This includes serving others, preaching the gospel, and demonstrating God's love and power through acts of compassion and healing.

Progression of apprenticeship:

1. Spending time with Jesus
2. Gradually changing to reflect his character
3. Naturally doing the things Jesus would do

3. Practicing the presence of God: Cultivating constant awareness

God is not a concept or an emotion, and he's certainly not a doctrine in a statement of faith or a chapter in a theology book; he is a person, whose burning desire is to know and be known by you.

Developing awareness. Practicing the presence of God involves training oneself to be constantly aware of God's presence in every moment. This is not about feeling a certain way, but about choosing to direct one's attention to God throughout the day.

Practical steps. This practice can be cultivated through various means, such as:

Methods for practicing presence:

• Setting regular reminders to pause and acknowledge God
• Using everyday activities as triggers for prayer
• Developing a habit of internal dialogue with God
• Viewing all of life as an opportunity for communion with God

Transformative impact. As this practice becomes habitual, it can lead to a profound sense of peace, joy, and purpose, as well as a natural alignment with God's will in daily decisions and actions.

4. Spiritual formation: A human journey of transformation

Spiritual formation isn't a Christian thing; it's a human thing.

Universal process. Spiritual formation is not exclusive to Christianity or even to religious people. It's the process by which every human being is shaped into the person they become, for better or worse.

Intentional direction. While everyone undergoes spiritual formation, followers of Jesus are called to intentionally direct this process towards Christlikeness. This involves:

Elements of intentional spiritual formation:

• Recognizing and addressing unhealthy patterns
• Cultivating virtues and positive character traits
• Engaging in practices that open oneself to God's transforming work
• Community support and accountability

Lifelong journey. Spiritual formation is not a one-time event but a lifelong process of growth and change. It requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to continually surrender to God's work in one's life.

5. The power of a Rule of Life: Structuring spiritual growth

A Rule of Life is a schedule and set of practices and relational rhythms that create space for us to be with Jesus, become like him, and do as he did, as we live in alignment with our deepest desires.

Defining a Rule of Life. A Rule of Life is a intentional plan for spiritual growth, inspired by monastic traditions but adaptable to any lifestyle. It's not about rigid rules, but about creating a structure that supports consistent spiritual practices and growth.

Creating structure. A Rule of Life typically includes:

Components of a Rule of Life:

• Regular times for prayer and Scripture reading
• Sabbath practices for rest and worship
• Community engagement and accountability
• Service and outreach activities
• Practices for self-examination and reflection

Flexibility and personalization. While there are common elements, each person's Rule of Life should be tailored to their unique circumstances, personality, and stage of spiritual growth. It should be regularly reviewed and adjusted as needed.

6. Embracing the nine core practices of Jesus

The practices are disciplines based on the lifestyle of Jesus that create time and space for us to access the presence and power of the Spirit and, in doing so, be transformed from the inside out.

Foundation for transformation. These practices, modeled by Jesus and adopted by his followers, provide a framework for spiritual growth and transformation. They are not ends in themselves but means to cultivate a deeper relationship with God and become more like Christ.

The nine practices:

1. Sabbath: Regular rest and worship
2. Solitude: Time alone with God
3. Prayer: Communion with God
4. Fasting: Abstaining for spiritual purposes
5. Scripture: Engaging with God's Word
6. Community: Shared life with other believers
7. Generosity: Giving of resources
8. Service: Meeting needs of others
9. Witness: Sharing the gospel

Integrated approach. While each practice has value on its own, they are most effective when integrated into a holistic approach to discipleship. The goal is not to check off a list of activities but to allow these practices to shape one's entire life and character.

7. Surrender: The foundation of the spiritual life

Surrender is the foundation of the spiritual life.

Core of discipleship. Surrender involves a willingness to give up control and submit one's will to God. It's not a one-time decision but a continual process of yielding to God's direction and purposes.

Paradox of surrender. While surrender may seem like a loss, it actually leads to freedom and fulfillment. By letting go of our own limited perspectives and desires, we open ourselves to God's larger purposes and deeper joy.

Aspects of surrender:

• Trusting God's wisdom over our own understanding
• Releasing control of outcomes to God
• Aligning our will with God's will
• Embracing God's timing and methods

Practical application. Surrender is lived out in daily decisions to follow Jesus' teachings, even when they conflict with personal desires or cultural norms. It involves a willingness to sacrifice comfort, status, or personal gain for the sake of God's kingdom.

Last updated: September 5, 2024