Mike Forbes

Simply Amazing and Amazingly Simple. A Simple Path to Discipleship with Mike Forbis

Discipleship doesn't have to be hard.

In a world that often complicates faith, there's profound beauty in returning to the simplicity of discipleship. The early church, as described in the book of Acts, remained steadfast in the apostles' doctrine, breaking bread together, and meeting both in the temple and from house to house. This model of regular, intentional gathering around God's Word is not just a historical footnote—it's a powerful blueprint for spiritual growth that remains relevant today.

Imagine a group of believers coming together, not to be lectured, but to share what God has revealed to them through His Word. This is the essence of simple discipleship—a method that's "amazingly simple, yet simply amazing." It's a return to the basics, where every participant is both a student and a teacher, guided by the Holy Spirit and the text of Scripture itself.

The power of this approach lies in its consistency and repetition. By reading the same passages of Scripture daily for a week, participants allow God's Word to truly sink in. Studies have shown that daily Bible reading doesn't significantly impact behavior until it's done at least three or four times a week. It's around day four of reading the same text that many report breakthrough moments of understanding.

This method of discipleship challenges the notion that spiritual growth is the sole responsibility of pastors or teachers. While these roles are vital for equipping the saints, each believer is called to invest "sweat equity" into their own spiritual development. After all, God has given us both His Word and His Spirit—everything we need for life and godliness.

One of the beautiful aspects of this approach is its ability to foster vulnerability and authenticity within the community of believers. In these small group settings, participants often find the courage to "take off the mask" and discuss their struggles with sin openly. Whether it's lust, pride, greed, or envy, bringing these battles into the light of God's Word and the support of fellow believers can lead to breakthrough and victory.

This type of Bible study also serves as a safeguard against doctrinal error. When individuals share their insights, the group can collectively examine them against the broader context of Scripture, helping to ensure a balanced and accurate understanding of God's Word.

The impact of regular Bible reading extends far beyond the individual. Imagine the transformation that could occur in our churches if every member was consistently engaging with Scripture. It would likely lead to a reduction in conflicts, marital issues, and financial problems. The Bible, after all, speaks to every aspect of our lives.

For those in business or leadership roles, this commitment to God's Word can profoundly shape how they approach their work. Christian principles aren't just for Sunday mornings—they're meant to impact how we conduct ourselves as employees, employers, spouses, and parents. When we align our lives with God's Word, it should be evident in every area, leading others to recognize the difference Christ makes.

One businessman shared how his faith journey led him to view his company as a ministry opportunity. He sees his employees as family and strives to model servant leadership, working alongside his team and fostering mutual respect. This integration of faith and work exemplifies how discipleship can transform not just individuals, but entire organizations.

The call to discipleship is not always easy. It requires denying oneself, which is often the greatest struggle we face. Self-leadership is perhaps the most challenging form of leadership, as we tend to judge others by their actions while judging ourselves by our intentions. Regular engagement with God's Word serves as a mirror, revealing our true selves and the areas where we fall short of God's standard.

For those who feel they don't have a dramatic testimony of transformation, remember that even those who grew up in the church need salvation. One man shared how, despite being a deacon and regular churchgoer, he realized he had been living as a hypocrite. It was at a men's rally that God spoke to him, revealing that while he had fooled those around him, he couldn't fool God. This led to a radical life change and a deepened commitment to authentic faith.

As we consider the power of simple discipleship, let's remember that the Bible contains everything we need to know about how God will judge us and how He desires us to live. It's not just a book of rules, but a living document that reads us as we read it. It challenges us, comforts us, and guides us in every aspect of life.

The invitation is clear: come and see. Experience the transformative power of consistent engagement with God's Word in the context of supportive community. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to faith, this approach to discipleship offers a path to deeper understanding and spiritual growth.

As we close, let's reflect on this prayer: "Father, thank you that you didn't leave us as orphans. You sent the Holy Spirit to teach and guide us, and you gave us your Word. Help us to be faithful in applying both. May we point others to you and guard our hearts by hiding your Word within them, that we might not sin against you. In Jesus' name, Amen."

The challenge is before us. Will we commit to growing deeper in God's Word? Will we engage in simple, yet profound discipleship that has the power to transform not just our lives, but the lives of those around us? The journey of faith is both personal and communal. Let's embark on it together, with open Bibles and open hearts, ready to be amazed by the simple, yet profound truths of God's Word.