Jesus takes ordinary fishermen and tells them they will become something more. Being a follower of Jesus is different than following someone on X (twitter) it leads to a transformation of our heart, mind and character. (Matthew 4:19)
Sermon OutlinE
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” (Matthew 4:19)
The definition of a disciple of Jesus: A disciple is following Jesus, being changed by the Holy Spirit, and committed to the mission of God.
Meaning of transformation
- Transformed means “changed, saved”
- Three words involved with transformation: justified, sanctified, and glorified.
- Justified means “not guilty, declared righteous”
- Sanctified means “set apart” or “holy”
- Glorified means “exalted, resurrected”
- Our transformation is both immediate and continuous.
Who and why are we transformed as disciples of Jesus
- Who transforms us into disciples of Jesus? The Holy Spirit (Ezekiel 36:25-27).
- Who needs to be transformed? Everyone (Romans 3:23-24).
- What is the ultimate goal of transforming disciples? To be like Jesus (Romans 8:29-30, 2 Corinthians 3:18, 1 John 3:1).
- Transformation is a journey that requires submitting to Christ and His Word (Romans 12:1-2).
- The story of the disciple’s transformation is the story of grace (Ephesians 2:1-10).
To be like Jesus means disciples are transformed to….
- Share the good news, make disciples, and “fish for people” (Matthew 28:19-20).
- Do good works (Ephesians 2:8-10).
- Love God and people (Matthew 22:36-40).
- Glorify God and enjoy Him forever (1 Peter 2:12, Psalm 69:30, Matthew 5:16, Rev. 21:3-4).
Disciples are totally transformed by grace through faith and the power of the Holy Spirit, but we must do our part. We must work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Spiritual disciplines can help with that (Bible Study, Prayer and Fasting, Worship, Service, etc.).
Making It Real
- For you to be transformed into a disciple of Jesus. You need to Connect, Grow, Serve:
- Connect with God and His people and be transformed. Join a local church.
- Grow in the Lord by practicing spiritual disciplines. Start with reading and engaging with the Word of God/ The Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
- Serve God and serve people. Do good work (Matthew 5:16).
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- This week, we continue our preaching series, “Following Jesus”. Whether alone or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you.
- Do you follow people on Instagram or similar online platforms? Why?
- Read Matthew 4:18-20. What jumps out at you? What did Jesus promise the disciples? “Fishers of Men” means “seeking the lost or sharing the good news. Who gives us the boldness to share the good news? Read Acts 4:29-31.
- Following Jesus does have a cost. Read Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34. However, not following Jesus is much more costly. Read John 3:16-18, 36.
- Read Titus 3:3-5. Based on this passage, how are we transformed (saved)?
- Ultimately, we are and will be transformed to be like Christ. Read Romans 8:29-30, 2 Corinthians 3:18. What hope does this give you?
- “Being transformed” includes sharing the good news and making disciples. Read Matthew 28:18-20
- We are also transformed to do good work. Read Ephesians 2:1-10
- How are you serving the Lord and others (doing good works)?
- We are transformed to bring God glory and enjoy Him forever. Read John 15:8, Matthew 5:16, John 10:10, Ezekiel 36:25-27, Psalm 23. How is God glorified, and what do we “enjoy” from God in these verses?
DIG DEEPER
- If you are still exploring who Jesus is and what Christianity is all about, or if you want to become a disciple of Jesus, CONNECT with God and His people. Reach out to the Eastbrook Church Office at 414.228.5220 and ask for the Pastor on Call.
- If you are a new or growing disciple of Jesus, how are you growing in the Lord? Applying spiritual disciplines to your life will help you GROW. Attending Sunday worship services, small group classes, and personal Bible study/devotions will help immerse you in the Word of God. Start with the Gospels of Luke or John.
- Are you a Christ-centered disciple? How are you serving the Lord? What are you doing right now to SERVE and help “make disciples” or do “good work” that brings God glory? Check out our monthly Top Serving Needs at eastbrook.org to find a place to serve.