MY THEOPHILUS

“It seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught,” (Luk 1:4). Only two books in our Bible were written by one man for one man, both by Luke to Theophilus, in order to relate to him the ministry of Christ and the ministry of those who followed Him (Acts). What is the significance of this revelation to those of us involved in an on- on-one discipleship ministry? Luke wrote that his friend might “have certainty,” or assurance, that the things he had heard were true and applicable.

The average Christian is bombarded weekly with messages about Christ that consist of lackadaisical commitments to attendance, superfluous Bible glossing, fun filled “missions” to provide a ministry “fix,” and reminders that God loves them whether they obey His commands or not. If we are no longer in a position to meet with them one on one to “always remind” those who are “established in the truth” we taught them (2Pt 1:12), then we had better find a way to ensure they hear the truth amidst the cackle of true sounding doctrines. If you have never been involved in discipleship, then you are like the rest of us not named Theophilus who eavesdrop on a Spirit inspired discipling conversation hoping to one day imitate the faith of those whose example is our commission. I write these thoughts to my Theophilus praying that he will remember, and that others won’t mind listening in, providing critique, asking clarifications and ultimately becoming another “friend of God” to me.

PS—Theophilus, my words are mine, His word is His, your words are yours, and our words are the fruit of a discipleship ministry. Teach His word through your words as you remember my words. God bless your obedience.