When we study the biblical topic discipleship with people we usually challenge them to respond immediately to the call (Mark 1:16-20). But do the gospels uniformly teach that this immediate response is normal (or normative)? [Reworded] -- Stephan Young (Los Angeles)
You are right. Luke 5 shows a less than decisive Peter on being called by Jesus. There are indeed differences in nuance among the four gospels and these should be taken into account. The calling of the disciples in Mark follows the initial relationship-building phase indicated in John 1. Some months may well have gone by. We need to be sensitive to those we are studying with. There is a time for challenge, but usually it is after trust has been earned. Many if not most people would be "blown away" if the first scripture you shared with them was a challenge to total commitment.
For more on this, please see Shining Like Stars. This book is replete with tips on how to study with people, how to use the scriptures effectively, and more. In all it contains some forty studies you can do with your non-Christian friends.
This article is copyrighted and is for private use and study only. © 2003. Reprints or public distribution is prohibited without the express consent of Douglas Jacoby.
