Overcoming Obstacles to Christian Discipleship

The journey of becoming a Christian disciple is both profound and complex. For many, this path is fraught with challenges that can derail sincere devotion and growth. Understanding and addressing these obstacles is crucial for every believer who seeks to follow Jesus faithfully.

Common Obstacles to Christian Discipleship

There are several reasons why Christians may struggle in their discipleship journey. These include:

Lack of Honest and Sincere Prayer: Prayer must be focused on the glory of God, not on personal gratification. Materialism: A love for material possessions, regardless of size, can distract from true spiritual priorities. Worldly Pleasures: A focus on earthly luxuries can weaken a Christian's spiritual resolve, leading to compromise and weakness. Apathy in Evangelization: Christians often fail to share the gospel, especially in situations that directly invite it. Misinterpretation of Scripture: Misunderstanding or liberal interpretation of biblical verses can lead to a lack of clear direction and faith. Cravings for Favors: Seeking personal benefits from God can sabotage one's spiritual progress. Desire for People's Approval: Conforming to peer pressure often clouds judgment and prevents genuine spiritual growth. Misguided Fellowship: Associating with the wrong crowd—friends, family, or social networks—can influence one's faith negatively. Fear of Societal Condemnation: The fear of being ostracized by society can inhibit one's willingness to openly follow Jesus. Self-Love Over God's Love: Ultimately, a love for oneself can overshadow the passionate love for others and Jesus.

Strategies for Overcoming Obstacles

To overcome these challenges, Christians must:

Strengthen Their Relationship with Scripture: New believers, like newborn babies, need to drink the 'milk of the word,' and mature believers must feed on God’s Word to grow in faith. Seek Guidance Through Discipleship: Find capable teachers who can guide them in understanding and applying biblical principles. Acknowledge the Gift of the Holy Spirit: Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to His followers, empowering them to be witnesses and ministers of the gospel. Practice Biblical Interpretation: Learn Hermeneutic principles to understand the text rightly and avoid misinterpretations. Mature in Body, Soul, and Spirit: Allow the Holy Spirit to guide and equip the believer's body, soul, and spirit to fulfill God’s purposes.

The Biblical Foundation

The Bible offers numerous verses and principles that support the journey of Christian discipleship:

1. Desire God's Word: Newborn believers should 'desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby' (1 Peter 2:2). Christians should immerse themselves in God's Word to grow in faith.

2. Active Discipleship: 1 Corinthians 12:7 states that there are various gifts, tools for serving others and growing in Christ. These gifts include various spiritual gifts (like speaking in tongues) that should be cultivated.

3. Salvation and Holiness: God's instructions in being sanctified completely cover one's spirit, soul, and body (1 Thessalonians 5:23). The birth of the spirit occurs at salvation, but the soul (mind, emotions, intellect) needs constant conforming to God's Word.

Biblical Evidence for Mastery

Scripture provides several examples and principles that support active and committed discipleship:

Romans 8:14: Living by the Spirit and under God's law leads to genuine discipleship. Not everyone does this, which is why ongoing education and guidance are crucial. John 7:38-39: Speaking in tongues demonstrates the overflow of the Holy Spirit, a sign of true discipleship and spiritual growth. Acts 10:44–48: When the Holy Spirit falls upon believers, they receive the gift of speaking in tongues and magnify God. 1 Corinthians 14:2–4: The gift of speaking in tongues is a personal prayer language between the Christian and God, showing the authenticity and sincerity of one's faith. Acts 2:4: Being filled with the Holy Spirit enables Christians to speak in tongues, strengthening their faith and spiritual growth.

Conclusion

By understanding and addressing these obstacles, Christians can pursue a deeper and more committed discipleship. The journey is not easy, but with perseverance in God's Word, guidance, and a heart that honors Him above all else, true discipleship is achievable. Seek the true meaning of God's Word and let it transform your life and faith.