Monday, March 3, 2008

Paul, Barnabas, and Timothy

Yesterday in MasterLife class (book 4, session 5: Training Disciples), the topic of Disciplining and Role Modeling was discussed in our opening group session and then it continued in our small groups. Landon was responsible for leading the opening session and our small (men's) group. In the large group he reinforced to us that as followers of Jesus we are commanded to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:16-20). In our Christian walk we encounter three characteristics of men in the Bible as we are disciples and as we disciple: Paul, Barnabas, and Timothy. Paul (your mentor, the one that has or is currently discipling you), Barnabas (the one that is where you are...they walk with you), and Timothy (the one you are disciplining). Of the three, Timothy is the one that, for me, gets my undivided attention. What an awsome responsibility it is when you are a Paul, to another follower of Jesus...I find it more comfortable when I am in the other two roles. But in order to grow in our walk with Jesus, we need to be outside our comfort zone.

Throughout my life as a follower of Jesus, so far I have experienced four Pauls in my life: Two are currently mentoring me, one lives in California and one has gone Home. Below, I have put together a small video about one of these men. What a sacrifice he has made in order to follow the Master's Call. As I go through my life, my hope is that I can make the kind of impact on another person's life that he has made on mine.

3 comments:

Troy Geddes said...

You are something else my brother. I am so thankful for your heart to encourage me in the Lords work you are truely my barnabus. I pray that you realize what a great witness you are to the people in Cameron and here in Romania. Bogdon is always saying I want to be humble like Lanny...Funny he never says anything about me being humble! Thanks my brother....You are a great friend in Christ.

Nancy said...

Okay not fair. You must just like to see me cry. That was really good. You are all amazing examples of a humble servants heart.

Lanny said...

It is great to sit back and watch (for now) how God is using you to influence the hearts of the Romanian people and those nationals that have been called out to lead. God is doing great things (through the Holy Spirit) in your life...He knows your heart is one that seeks to bring glory to His name.

Tell Bogdon I miss him and I am paitently waiting to jump the pond later on this year.