Jesus began his ministry by devoting a night to prayer. The next day he called twelve ordinary men to come and be his disciples. In the subsequent months he taught them about the Father's love and truth. This began a transformation process that ultimately enabled them to live as productive citizens in God's kingdom.
After Jesus' Passion, he entrusted his disciples with the mission of spreading the Good News by their words and deeds throughout the world. Jesus ascended to the Father with this strategy in place; he offered no other. Today that strategy has not changed. Jesus still offers only one plan. He still desires that the world might know and experience the Father's love. He is still relying on faithful, obedient, and yet very ordinary disciples to spread the Good News by their words and deeds. He is still calling people to follow him. By the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, he is still entrusting the mission to faithful stewards.
This study will help you to look afresh at Jesus' call, to consider anew his teachings, and to affirm once again-or perhaps for the first time- your willingness to be his faithful disciple and steward. As you begin, plan on setting aside at least one hour to work through each session. Come with an open heart and mind as you explore the issues raised within these pages. During the course of the Bible study, if the Lord shows you an area in your life that needs changing, be open to change so that you can carry on Jesus' mission in the world today.