What are the seven marks of authentic discipleship?[1]
Ogden reminds us that we must
consider whether we are meeting the biblical standard for discipleship or
practicing a superficial faith. Do we
perceive laity as proactive ministers or passive recipients/spectators? Do we
live a disciplined way of life, like an athlete in training, or are we one of
the 80% of adults who consider themselves born again without Aany specific, measurable goals related to their spiritual
development.@ Do we
understand that Jesus is Lord of all, or believe that our faith is something
only for our personal and private life? Do we understand that Jesus calls us to
be a community of radical nonconformity to this world, a church without
borders, or is our concept of church Aan
aggregate of individuals who shop like consumers to meet their needs?@ Do we understand the church as an
organism in whom Christ dwells or an Aoptional
institution, unnecessary for discipleship?@
Are we prayerful, Biblically informed people or not? Are we among those who
share their faith with others or are we Aintimidated
people who shrink from personal witness?@
Ogden concludes, AWhat is a
disciple of Jesus but one who is self-initiating, reproducing and fully devoted
to him? What seems unattainable is that
there would be churches filled with disciples who do not have to be pushed, motivated
and cajoled.@
[1]All concepts and quotes in this section are derived from Ogden, Transforming Discipleship, 24-37.