Every week at 3C South Coast Family Church, we gather to celebrate the goodness of God and to grow in our understanding of His Word. This past Sunday, 12 April, Pastor Larry took us deeper into our theme for the year: “Go and make disciples of all nations”. While we often focus on the “going” part of the Great Commission, the true engine behind our mission is something much more personal and challenging — obedience.
Identity Before Function
Before we can effectively go and make disciples, we must understand who we are in Christ. Pastor Larry reminded us that while our sonship defines our identity, discipleship defines our function. We are children of God, but we are also called to be students and followers.
In Hebrews 5:8, we read a startling truth: “though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered”.
If even Jesus, the perfect Son of God, walked a path of learned obedience, how much more must we commit ourselves to this journey?.
Learning is a Lifestyle
True obedience begins with an attentive ear and a willing heart. Pastor Larry challenged us to be constant learners. In our modern world, it is easy to seek out information that merely “tickles our ears,” but a true disciple seeks transformation.
Learning is not just about gaining head knowledge; it is about growing in understanding and then applying that truth to every area of our lives.
As we read in John 8:31-32, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free”.
The Proving Ground of Suffering
We often shy away from the word “suffering,” but it is frequently the very place where our obedience is tested and refined. Suffering is not something we should seek out, but we must recognise it as a proving ground.
When life “squeezes” us, what comes out?. If we are aligned with God’s purpose, even difficult times become opportunities for us to mature and become more like Christ. This process of being “perfected” — or made mature — is what allows us to become truly authentic.
Authentic Alignment
Being authentic means being the “real thing” every day of the week, not just on a Sunday morning. Pastor Larry used the brilliant analogy of car tyre alignment. A car can still drive if the wheels are skew, but it will cause unnecessary wear and tear.
In the same way, when we live out of alignment with God’s Word, we experience friction and fruitlessness. When we align our lives through obedience, we find the freedom and power to fulfill our purpose.
The Call to Action: Go and Make
Our obedience is not just for our own benefit; it is for the sake of the world.
Jesus commanded us in Matthew 28:19-20: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things I have commanded you”.
This is not a suggestion — it is our mission.
To truly live this out, we must follow the “Ladder of Success”:
- Win: Reach out to those who don’t know Christ.
- Consolidate: Help new believers find their footing in the faith.
- Disciple: Walk alongside others as they learn to obey.
- Send: Empower them to go and do the same for others.
Small Group / Cell Leader Discussion Guide
Focus Scripture: Hebrews 5:8-11
- Reflection: Pastor Larry noted that “identity produces purpose, and purpose produces function.” How does knowing you are a child of God change the way you view your daily tasks?
- Application: In what area of your life do you feel “out of alignment” right now? What is one practical step of obedience you can take this week to bring that area back into line with God’s Word?
- Outreach: The Great Commission tells us to “Go.” Who is one person in your sphere of influence (work, neighbourhood, or family) that you can intentionally reach out to this week?
Including Obedience into Your Life
Don’t let this message end at the church doors. Here is how you can start living it today:
- Start Small: Obedience is built in the daily “yes.” Find one small instruction from the Bible this week and simply do it.
- Stay in the Word: You cannot obey what you do not know. Commit to a daily reading plan to keep your heart attentive.
- Join a Cell: Discipleship happens in community. If you aren’t in a small group yet, join one to find support and accountability.
Are you ready to stop living “Christianity Lite” and start being an authentic disciple?. Let us be a people who don’t just hear the Word, but do it.
Learn more about the global mission of 3C at My3C TV.
A Blessed Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of being called Your children.
We ask for the grace to walk in obedience this week, even when it is difficult.
Help us to align our hearts with Your Word so that we may be authentic witnesses of Your love. Give us the courage to go and make disciples, knowing that You are with us always.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
