If we are to
understand how “Biblical Discipleship matters because it
helps the believer to understand their life in the context of the Gospel,” then we must fall in love with the story.
Two people
groups that you can’t shut up are Grandparents and Patriots. I find that it is
easy for us to understand why Grandparents talk for hours. Simply put, they
love those grand-babies. But, why do Patriots go on for hours? Patriots carry on
because they know and believe in the history, direction and uniqueness of their
country.
In the United States Marine Corps training, all marines are trained to
quote the historical facts of the Corps and the country at the drop of a hat.
WHY? Such knowledge breeds dedication and love of the Corps (Spri de Corps). 
The reason
most believers struggle to show a Daily Love of the Gospel or even share the
Gospel, is because they do not know the story / history behind it all. Dr.
Sandra Richter, who I am indebted to for helping me understand Scripture, says,
“the Old Testament isn’t Israel’s history, it is OUR history.”
Have you
noticed how many of the modern American immigrants aren’t patriotic? Or even
worse, have you noticed how younger American’s aren’t patriotic? A friend of
mine, Dr. Jason Hostutler, deduced this problem is because most Americans are taught that
Colonial America (or American history in general) has nothing to do with 2015 America. Truly anyone with a
decent historical education will tell you that is the furthest thing from the
truth! If it were not for colonial America there would have been no grounds
upon which reforms, and later rights, could be based. While brown folk didn’t
have rights in Colonial America, the basis of women’s rights and civil rights were built upon
the basic rights that the colonialists fought to achieve.
If I were to
begin the process of helping disciple all believers to live the Daily Gospel,
then I’d begin with helping them fall in love with the Grand story of God. When
I teach any Old Testament courses, I remind the students it isn’t Israel’s
story, it is OUR STORY. Like students who fall in love with the story of
America, we must fall in love with the story of what God has done and is doing.
“The Lord God is graciously building a kingdom of redeemed
people for their joy and His glory.”- Ken Easley
SO How do we
solve this lack of Love? – Simply Put, Study
the Gospel Daily. While focusing on sharing the Gospel with others is indeed
our task in life, we must first ensure that we know, love and follow the
Gospel.
“We must
preach the Gospel to ourselves daily.” – Ken Easley
Here is a Simple passage for you to read daily and fall back in love with the Gospel. ACTS
7 Notice the possessive nature of Stephen’s story telling for it is truly
Our Story too.
