21 Days of DiscipleshipSample

Why I Write …

21 chapters. 21 days. 21 challenges. And man, it’s been worth it! We have learned who Jesus is, seen what Jesus has done, and discovered how that impacts every day and every moment of our lives. This is why John wrote this book. He knew that what he experienced as a disciple of Jesus was too good to keep to himself.

At the end of chapter 20, he writes:

Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book.  But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. John 20:30-31 NIV

What have you experienced as a follower of Jesus? Here’s the thing: Your journey, whether it just started 21 days ago, or you’ve been following Jesus for much longer, is too good to keep to yourself! How can you learn to leverage your story for the sake of others? How can you share what Jesus has done for you, in you, and through you?

First, recognize that you don’t have to be perfect. Jesus spends a good portion of John 21 reminding Peter of this fact. Even though Peter denied even knowing Jesus three different times, Jesus never gave up on Peter and the calling He had for Peter’s life. And though he was far from perfect, Peter stepped into this calling and became one of the most influential leaders of the early Jesus movement.

Our mistakes and weaknesses don’t disqualify us. They actually provide opportunities for Jesus’ power to shine through us. So, whatever you do, don’t give up! It won’t always be easy or pretty, but it will be worth it. 

Challenge: Don’t stop here! Share your journey with others, as John shared his. And continue learning from Jesus. Pick another gospel account: Matthew, Mark, or Luke, and lean into their stories too!