Author: Pastor Mark Toone

You aren’t as relational as you think you are!

A team of us went to a disciple-making conference back in October.  Frankly, we were prepared.  We had read all the materials, we were “talkin’ the talk,” we were committed to disciple-making as our way forward as a congregation.  So, one morning, our co-facilitator said, “We’ve decided to throw away the script.  You guys understand […]

Read More… from You aren‚Äôt as relational as you think you are!

Matthew 10

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus passed on his authority to heal and teach to his followers. Jesus sent his followers to face persecution without fear. What did I learn about disciple-making? Jesus promised that the road would not be easy for disciple-makers; there would be persecution and hatred directed at his followers (verses […]

Read More… from Matthew 10

Matthew 9

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus claims to be God (verses 1-8). He loves to do new things that unsettle us… and that old systems can’t hold. What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciples are called right in their places of work (verse 9). He commands us to be good shepherds to the crowds…harassed […]

Read More… from Matthew 9

Matthew 8

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus has the power to heal—physical and spiritual (see esp. verse 16). Jesus has power over nature (verse 26). Jesus was a “going” God…he “goed” (went) and He bids us to go in faith and obedience. Where do I go today at His bidding? What did I learn about disciple-making? […]

Read More… from Matthew 8

Matthew 7

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus spoke with authority—the authority to teach and to judge. Jesus does not want fans… fawning admirers… He wants followers. What did I learn about disciple-making? Again, whether or not someone is a disciple can be seen by their fruit.    Extended thoughts and observations: This is an embarrassment […]

Read More… from Matthew 7

Matthew 6

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus had a lot to say about praying, fasting, money, and anxiety. What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciple-making requires a loyalty to serve God rather than money. Jesus expects us to give, pray, and fast.    Extended thoughts and observations: Jesus expects us to give, pray, fast… that’s […]

Read More… from Matthew 6

Matthew 5

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus taught about sin and the law as deep issues of the heart. Jesus says unexpected things, like “Blessed are those who mourn.” What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciples sit at Jesus’ feet and learn from him. Jesus intends his disciples to follow him in a public way. […]

Read More… from Matthew 5

Matthew 4

What did I learn about Jesus? Before Jesus began his ministry he defeated Satan using God’s Word. Jesus’ first message was, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”   What did I learn about disciple-making? To follow Jesus we need to learn the Word. Disciples immediately respond to the call of Jesus to […]

Read More… from Matthew 4

Someday, I really ought to get to that…

I don’t know how many times over my ministry I’ve heard people say, “Someday, I really ought to start reading the Bible.” They know that a disciple cannot grow without understanding God’s word. They know that time spent every day in the scripture and in prayer has been proven, scientifically, to produce all kinds of physical, emotional […]

Read More… from Someday, I really ought to get to that…

Matthew 3

What did I learn about Jesus? God called Jesus his “beloved Son” when he was baptized by John the Baptist. Jesus has “fulfilled all righteousness.”  What did I learn about disciple-making? Repentance was the first step to being baptized. God is looking for his followers to produce “good fruit.”   Extended thoughts and observations: Today […]

Read More… from Matthew 3