Discipleship in Paul’s Letters

Canaan Fellowship

Discipleship in Paul’s Letters

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This sermon by Philip Schnackenberg focuses on the theme of discipleship, drawing from the life and letters of Paul to explore the qualities of a disciple-maker and the relational dynamics involved. Philip examines Paul’s teachings and personal examples to highlight the humility, endurance, and emotional investment required in discipleship. The message also touches on both the challenges and rewards of guiding others in faith.

[00:00:00] Introduction to Discipleship: Philip begins by discussing discipleship, focusing on examples from Paul’s letters to understand the role of a teacher or disciple-maker.
[00:01:03] Qualities of a Teacher (1 Corinthians 4): In 1 Corinthians 4:1, Paul describes teachers as “servants of Christ” and “stewards of the mysteries of God,” emphasizing humility with the term “under oarsmen.”
[00:03:47] Faithfulness in Stewardship: Paul stresses in 1 Corinthians 4:2 that stewards must be faithful, prioritizing God’s judgment over human opinion.
[00:06:29] Humility Through Grace: Paul attributes his role as a teacher to God’s grace, recognizing his past opposition to God and his current mission as a result of mercy.
[00:07:48] Fatherly Role in Discipleship: In 1 Corinthians 4:14-15, Paul likens himself to a father to the Corinthians, distinguishing this intimate role from mere guides.
[00:09:46] Call to Imitation: Paul urges imitation in 1 Corinthians 4:16, emphasizing personal example as central to discipleship.
[00:11:21] Living Among Disciples (Acts 20): In Acts 20, Paul speaks to Ephesian elders about living among them, highlighting the importance of shared life in discipleship.
[00:13:40] Emotional Investment: Paul’s tears and trials in Acts 20 show his deep emotional connection to those he disciples, viewing them as family.
[00:16:06] Dedication Despite Hardship: In Acts 20:22-24, Paul expresses willingness to face imprisonment and affliction, valuing his mission over personal safety.
[00:18:24] Self-Sufficiency in Ministry: Paul in Acts 20:33-35 emphasizes not coveting wealth and working to support himself, avoiding being a burden to others.
[00:20:05] Relationship with Timothy (2 Timothy 1): Paul addresses Timothy as his “beloved child” in 2 Timothy 1:2, showcasing a deep, fatherly bond.
[00:24:07] Generational Discipleship: In 2 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul encourages Timothy to entrust teachings to faithful men who will teach others, promoting a chain of discipleship.
[00:27:19] Pain of Desertion: Paul laments in 2 Timothy 1:15 and 4:10 the loss of followers like Demas, revealing the emotional toll of broken relationships.
[00:31:23] Endurance in Ministry: Philip reflects on Paul’s endurance in 2 Timothy 4:6-8, noting his unwavering commitment despite hardships.
[00:38:44] Earthly Rewards of Discipleship: Philip cites Ecclesiastes 2:24 to discuss finding joy in toil, paralleling it to the satisfaction of successful discipleship.
[00:41:30] Joy in Faithful Disciples: In 1 Corinthians 4:17 and 3 John 1:4, Paul finds joy in Timothy’s faithfulness and in hearing his “children” walk in truth.

Scripture References

1 Corinthians 4:1-2
1 Corinthians 4:14-17
Acts 20:22-24
Acts 20:33-35
2 Timothy 1:2
2 Timothy 1:15
2 Timothy 2:1-2
2 Timothy 4:6-8
2 Timothy 4:10
Ecclesiastes 2:24
3 John 1:4
Philippians 2:19
James 3:2

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