Lesson 4

Main Idea: True disciples have a heart condition that is committed to God’s kingdom rather than the applause of people.

Head Change: To recognize that discipleship is about advancing the kingdom of God.

Heart Change: To feel confidence in our acceptance through Jesus.

Life Change: To work at bearing fruit in keeping with our discipleship.

Take a moment to consider the scope of what discipleship is all about. Think back to the scene that Mark has painted for us so far: Massive crowds have been following Jesus. He’s drawn both positive and negative attention from nearly everyone—including his own mother and brothers.

Now put yourself in the shoes of the disciples, watching this whole thing unfold. Jesus has been talking in parables to keep the mysteries of God’s kingdom hidden from the masses, but still—this new kingdom Jesus has been talking about looks well underway. Doesn’t it?

Jesus calls us into discipleship in order to grow the kingdom of God. And that kingdom will, ultimately, change the world. But our contributions are likely to be small—hardly noticeable. And that’s okay, because the kingdom is what matters—not our fame.

The promise Jesus offers is, in the end, a huge kingdom built by God himself. We have the opportunity to play a small part in building it. Is that enough for you? Are you willing to be a small part of God’s great story?