The Role and Nature of Christian Discipleship

The Call to Discipleship in the Gospel of Mark

Mark introduces the call to discipleship through the story of Jesus calling his first disciples. These were four fishermen: Simon, Andrew, James and John.
Jesus’s call was simple and direct: “Follow me”. This indicates that becoming a disciple requires a decision to follow Christ.
The fishermen’s response was immediate — they left their nets and followed Jesus. This reflects the decisive nature of discipleship.

Characteristics of Christian Discipleship

Disciples are expected to take up their crosses and follow Jesus. This is a metaphor for willingness to suffer, sacrifice and struggle for the sake of Christ.
Disciples are called to deny themselves, a call for postponing or giving up personal desires for the cause of Christ.
The greatest in the Kingdom of God, according to Jesus, is the servant of all. This emphasises humility and service as key characteristics of discipleship.

Challenges of Discipleship

The story of the rich young man in Mark’s Gospel highlights the challenge of material wealth in discipleship. Despite his desire to follow Jesus, the man walks away sorrowful when asked to sell all his possessions.
The disciples often struggled to understand Jesus’s teachings, such as the meaning of the ‘leaven of the Pharisees’. This shows that comprehending and applying spiritual truths can be a challenge in discipleship.
Discipleship can also require facing conflict or rejection for Christ’s sake, as shown in the treatment of Jesus and his followers by religious leaders.

Rewards of Discipleship

Jesus assures that those who leave everything for His sake and the gospel’s will receive a hundredfold in this time, and ensuring eternal life. This highlights the concept of spiritual reward.
The transfiguration of Jesus (visible to Peter, James, John), shows the glory that awaits those who remain faithful to Jesus.
The resurrection of Jesus, and his promise to be with his disciples, assures the continuing presence and guidance of Christ, an essential reward of discipleship.

Remember, understanding discipleship through the Gospel of Mark provides insight into the early church’s struggles, teachings, challenges, and successes in following Christ’s path. It also lays a foundation for understanding Christian discipleship today.