Invitation and Challenge into Legacy
Throughout our discipleship journey, we've seen the immense power in balancing invitation and challenge. These two elements are not just strategies but foundational principles observed in the life and ministry of Jesus. In the Legacy Edition, we emphasize, "Approval. Appetite. Ambition. Jesus embraced and restored them." By holding invitation and challenge in balance, we nurture spiritual growth and maturity in ourselves and others.
We often reflect on Jesus' interactions, especially in Matthew 4:19 when He invited His first disciples: “Come, follow me...and I will send you out to fish for people.” Jesus offered an inviting relationship and an immediate challenge. Reflecting personally, Sally and I have experienced tremendous growth when leaders lovingly invited us into deeper community and gently challenged us to stretch our faith and service.
Consider your discipleship context today—are you leaning more towards invitation or challenge? How might adjusting this balance enhance your spiritual growth and effectiveness?
For us, discipleship has always been deeply relational. Over time, we've come to understand that true discipleship transforms beyond Sundays—it becomes a daily, shared mission within our families and communities. Our book encourages readers to recognize that discipleship flourishes within the authenticity and intentionality of family-like relationships. This commitment shaped our understanding of discipleship as something we embody together, not individually. Our children, close friends, and spiritual family have consistently reminded us of the power of shared mission and collective effort.
Think about your current relationships—how can your family (whether biological or spiritual) grow in shared discipleship and mission? How can you intentionally foster deeper, Christ-centered community in everyday life?
In the Legacy Edition, Mike writes, "Your spiritual gifts uniquely equip you. Discover them, embrace them, and use them to lead others toward Christ." Each of us has the potential to leave an eternal legacy simply by sharing what we have received from God with others.
As you engage with this edition, consider the legacy you're creating right now. How are you intentionally using your gifts to disciple others? Our prayer is that your life and ours would collectively tell a compelling story of Jesus' transforming power.