Author: Pastor Mark Toone

Matthew 13

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus uses parables—stories about ordinary things everyone would have been familiar with—to explain what the Kingdom of God is like. Jesus was rejected by his hometown. What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciple-makers gather to hear the teachings of Jesus. Followers of Jesus keep asking for explanations.    Extended […]

Read More… from Matthew 13

Matthew 12

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus reiterates that he is divine (verse 8). Jesus was a student of the Word (which speaks to importance of OUR studying and memorizing the Word). What did I learn about disciple-making? Again, our genuineness as disciples is clearly evidenced by the fruit of our lives. When you follow […]

Read More… from Matthew 12

Matthew 11

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus shares a strong identity with the Father (verse 27). Jesus faced opposition (verses 20-24). What did I learn about disciple-making? The comfort for our doubts is the surety of who Jesus is evidenced in the life he lived (verse 1-19). Disciple-making is an invitation to rest and labor […]

Read More… from Matthew 11

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