Hikes, Weddings, Boat Trips, & Dinner Parties

I wonder when the disciples really started growing and learning…

Was it when they heard a powerful sermon, where Jesus just “tore it up”?

Was it after Jesus told them to read a few great books and listen to some incredible podcasts?

Or maybe Jesus only invited them to follow him after they graduated from Bible College—all educated, trained-up, and ready to go.

Hmmmm. Maybe not.

I’m sure they grew and learned while listening to sermons. I know reading helped too.

Classrooms and books and sermons and podcasts are all great. Really.

But they’re not enough.

Much of their growth came while spending time with Him on hikes, at weddings, on boat trips, and at dinner parties…

Hanging out.

Eating and drinking together.

Running errands.

Traveling.

Laughing.

Talking.

Jesus’ invitation wasn’t “Listen to me” or “Download my video podcasts” or “Tune in to see me on TBN tonight.”

He invited them to follow him…

And they followed.

They went places together. They shared experiences, adventures, and meals together.

Jesus modeled something for us:

Discipleship doesn’t happen in isolation.

Growth doesn’t just happen in the classroom or auditorium.

We grow when we go places together—when we share experiences, adventures and meals together.

We need each other—and we’re better together.

“The believers met together… They ate together in their homes, happy to share their food with joyful hearts. They praised God and were liked by all the people. Every day the Lord added those who were being saved to the group of believers.” (Acts 2.46, 47 NCV)