Discipleship University
Welcome to Discipleship University!
Otherwise known as Sabbath School. On July 4th, we launch several new adult Sabbath School classes.
Why do we call it Discipleship University?
Sabbath School is a school, right? It's a place of learning. The word "disciple" is translated from a Greek word for student. A disciple learned from a "master" which is translated from another Greek word meaning "teacher." This model of learning was the equivalent of today's university. However, unlike modern universities, in those times, a student didn't just see his professor a couple of times a week in class. He went with him everywhere and constantly observed and learned from him. His goal was to become like his master. Jesus made several comments about the relationship between disciples and their master. One thing He said was, "It's enough for the disciple to become like his master."
Jesus not only invited people to come to Him to learn. He also asked them to make disciples of others-to bring them to Him to learn. We've been invited, too. So, how do we learn from Jesus?
As disciples of our Master, there are many ways we can seek Him and learn from Him. Music, fellowship, nature, hearing the word preached, the voice of the Spirit speaking to our hearts. One of the most direct and explicit and revealing ways we can learn from Him is the Bible. The Bible is like a treasure chest packed so full that it's a wonder the covers stay closed! In it, we hear God's heart, we see what He's done and our trust is strengthened. In the pages of the Bible, we see His plans revealed, and we find guidance for the good ways-the ways that make our lives rich with joy and with peaceful trust and with understanding and with the security of belonging. It's an incredible book.
As this earth becomes increasingly troubled, it's time for us to again become known as "people of the Book." It's time to do as Paul recommended: to search the scriptures daily, and to "let the word of God dwell in us richly." In doing so, we'll find Him. And that's where things get exciting.
It seems a safe bet that every person reading this wants that sort of encounter with God. If you already have encountered Him and are seeking more and more of Him you'll welcome the opportunity to join other seekers in searching the scriptures that tell of Him. And if you are yearning for that real encounter with the Living Lord-if you want to know Him and not just facts about Him, I encourage you to try one of these new classes. Join us as we seek Him together!
There are six classes for you to choose from and they offer a variety of formats and subject matter. They range from free-wheeling discussion to in-depth Bible study. There are classes for the newest seekers and for those with deep experience. With this much variety in learning approaches, we hope you'll find one that provides the support you need as you learn from Jesus and become more and more like Him.
Choose one, and come next Sabbath and give it a try!
Fran McKain, coordinator