Faith Christian Fellowship of Tucson
Here’s your final installment of the Real Disciples Guide, Amigos.
Real Disciples Guide
8: Your Salvation is Not Just For You.
The world is waiting. Your spiritual life is never just about you. We strive to grow, to learn, to serve in the church, but ultimately we are here to reach others. The Lord is waiting for the salvation of all who will come to Him. He left you here to help in that process. His heart breaks for lost people, and He wants yours to do the same. Not everyone will be an evangelist, but everyone can share what they know. You don’t have to be a great teacher or preacher. You can simply introduce people to your best friend, Jesus. You may not be called to move to another nation, but you can do things to help those who are called. Matthew 9:36-38 / James 5:7 / Romans 10:13-15
Three Big Ideas to Remember
1) We are here to populate heaven: Jesus was very clear on the mission. Salvation comes through believing in Him. Our job is to tell people that He died for them, that He has been raised from the dead, and that they can make Him their Lord. He then says we should make them into disciples by baptizing them and teaching them. Paul calls this the ministry of reconciliation. Mark 16:15-20 / Luke 24:45-49 / Acts 1:1-8 / Matthew 28:18-20 / 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 / 1 Timothy 1:15 / 2:3-7
2) You have a part in the plan:
a) Romans 10:13-17. It takes all parts to make it work:
i) Salvation comes through faith in the Person and Work of Jesus Christ.
ii) Faith comes by hearing.
iii) Hearing comes by preaching.
iv) Preaching comes by sending.
b) 1 Timothy 3:15. The local church is the foundation for the Truth. Every church has a role to play. It is the base from which the Gospel is sent.
c) 1 Peter 4:7-11. We are each gifted and are responsible to be good stewards of our gifts. Each of us has a role to fulfill in our local church. We are part of the stable foundation for sending.
d) Matthew 9:36-38. Jesus was compassionate, so He sent you. You can be an answer to a prayer for laborers to the harvest.
3) Here’s the important thing: Do something!!!
a) Preach: Introduce someone to the Jesus you know. Your life is a letter from God to someone. Write out your personal story of how you came to Jesus and some things He has done for you. Ask the Lord to give you the opportunity to share some of this story with another person. 2 Corinthians 3:3. / Mark 5:19
b) Send: Find a place and take part in the process. Some have to go, but those who stay home to pray, take care of the local church, and give regularly to the work of God receive just as great a reward. Stability and growth in the church come when each one does his part. God never forgets your labor in sending. Ephesians 4:16 / 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 / 15:58 / Hebrews 6:10/ Philippians 4:10-19 / Matthew 10:41-42
Somebody Said: “Do not think me mad. It is not to make money that I believe a Christian should live. The noblest thing a man can do is, just humbly to receive, and then go amongst others and give.” David Livingstone
Here’s the point: God left you here on the earth for a purpose. You have received much from the Lord: salvation, abilities, the power of the Spirit, and more. His aim is that you be a conduit of His grace to others. The results of your obedience are many: others will make heaven, you will live with a sense of Divine purpose, and you will receive an abundant reward for your giving. You can only truly keep that which you give away.
Action Steps: Write out your personal story of coming to Christ. List some of the things He has done in your life since then. Ask the Lord to give you the opportunity to share some of this with another. Get involved in a local church that is reaching outside of its 4 walls. Do something to help in service and finances. Enjoy your life as a follower of Jesus.
Pastor Virgil Stokes
FCF of Tucson
3141 W. Ironwood Hill Dr.
Tucson, AZ 85745
520-792-FCFT
If you have questions, please contact us at 520-792-3238 or fcftoffice@fcftucson.org. We also have more in depth notes and discussion guides available for small group Bible studies.
Want to keep on growing and learning? Take a look at the opportunities at Faith Ministry Training Institute
pastorvirgil.com 