Keep it Simple

I’ve been reading (and rereading) Radical, by David Platt. It is a challenging look at how we blend American culture and philosophies with the Gospel message. More that simply understanding the message of the Bible through our cultural background, Platt argues we are reworking the true message of the biblical witness to fit our personal agendas and preconceptions.

As I reviewed the chapter on we are joined together to fulfill God’s purpose, I was struck by his reflection on disciple making. Platt writes, “Disciple making is not about a program or an event but about a relationship… Disciple making involves inviting people into a larger community of faith where they will see the life of Christ in action and experience the love of Christ in person.”

I wonder why we often work so hard to find substitutes for real relationships and community. We take a simple (though not always easy) revelation and then work hard to complicate it with our self-made substitutes. Life, ministry and discipleship are not as complicated as we would believe. It really does come down to authentic, God-directed relationships.

Jesus, when asked to summarize the commandments replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.” He added, “you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Simply put, Jesus said that the message of the scriptures and the heart of the Gospel is: Love God and Love People. Instead of pouring our resources and energy into fancy programs and flashy promotions, could it be that we should invest ourselves in our relationship with Christ and our relationships with others.

My emerging goal is simply this, “Keep it Simple.” There are thousands of good ideas, but none of them will have greater impact that the message and impact of Jesus. Certainly, if he felt spending three years sharing life with 12 people as a good discipleship strategy, then it might be worth our time to follow his example.

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