THE BEAUTY OF BEING A DISCIPLE (3)

INTRODUCTION

Developing potential for God's glory (Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents) & Colossians 3:23-24).

Many Christians feel that being "saved" is enough, but forget that the call to be a disciple of Christ is a lifelong call to grow and bear fruit.

CONTENT

I.    Realising potential is a trust (stewardship)

1.      We are stewards, not owners. The talents, gifts, intelligence, time, and wealth we possess are entrusted to us by God; they are not purely the result of our own efforts.

2.      Given according to ability. God gives different potentials, but everyone is given talents (Matthew 25:15).

3.      Potential: Potential is given not for personal pride, but to serve God and others (to be a blessing).

II.    Developing potential with faith and obedience

1.      Step out of your comfort zone. The servant who received one talent buried it out of fear (Matthew 25:25). Being a disciple of Christ requires us to take risks and step out in faith.

2.      Discipline and loyalty. Maximizing potential means training consistently. “Do our best” in everything—work, study, and service—as if for God, not for man.

3.      Learn from Jesus. As disciples, we do what Jesus did. Jesus was a person who focused on the Father's mission.

CONCLUSION

Be a faithful disciple, who one day will be worthy to hear: "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21).