The Marks of a True Disciple

1. Blessed are the POOR IN SPIRIT for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven
-the state of being poor: resorting to begging because they know they cannot help themselves
-spiritual poverty means that apart from God, we can do nothing--that there is emptiness left to ourselves

2. Blessed are those who MOURN for they will be COMFORTED
-the state of mourning: recognizing how wretched we are and being truly sorrowful for it.
-there can be no real salvation unless there is a realization of sin that leads to repentance--that only Jesus can fill the void in our hearts.
-it is not just being sorry because we were caught in sin, but because we know that the act of sin is offensive to God.

*based on Matthew 5:1-12
by Rev. Alex Uy

Survive and Thrive

Methods to increase numbers in Church:

1. natural addition: by having babies

2. conquest and persecution: forcing upon others, sometimes with threats.

3. mass evangelism: altar call with a popular speaker. this strategy would not stand on its own.

4. seeker sensitive church: responds to needs and provides creative ways to attract new-comers. sometimes prone to the lack of depth in teaching.

5. DISCIPLESHIP: process where a more mature believer helps a younger eliever grow in his relationship with God.



Process of Discipleship:

1. Evangelism (things you HEARD me say). This will allow you to gain disciples or followers.

2. Bible-based teaching (THINGS you heard ME SAY). Correct teaching from someone more mature.

3. Accountability (RELIABLE MEN). These teachers are required to be reliable, answerable, and blameworthy.

4. Transference (QUALIFIED TO TEACH OTHERS ALSO). This allows the process to continue on.



based on 2 Timothy 2:2

by Rev. Alex Uy