Looking Back ∙∙

Looking Back ∙∙

Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God. – Luke 9:62

Philippians 3:7-14

I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless compared to the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus, my Lord. For his sake, I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him.

I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death.

I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me.

Plowing: A Metaphor for Discipline

Plowing is a crucial farming task that involves turning, loosening, and aerating the top layer of soil. This process mixes organic matter, like manure, into the soil, boosting its nutrient levels. As a result, plowing creates a suitable environment for seedlings to establish roots more easily. It also clears crop residue and weeds, preparing the field for a fruitful growing season and harvest.

However, plowing is not a straightforward activity. The condition of the soil is very important. If the soil is too wet, it clumps into hard, rock-like masses when it dries. If it’s too dry, plowing becomes as tough as working on asphalt. Maintaining proper moisture balance is essential for a smooth and efficient process.

Plowing also requires careful planning. Farmers must map out their route, deciding where to stop and turn their equipment. It is crucial to maintain a steady gaze on a fixed target at the opposite end of the field. This focus helps ensure straight, even rows. Looking back can cause one to veer off course and waste effort, or, in the worst cases, lead to significant crop loss. Attention to detail throughout plowing is vital for maximizing yield and managing resources effectively.

Discipleship: The Hard Work of Focus and Sacrifice

Discipleship is akin to the demanding task of plowing, requiring steady focus, unwavering discipline, and significant sacrifices. Just as a farmer must fix their gaze on a distant point to create straight rows, disciplers need to remain committed to the kingdom of God. The distractions and busyness of everyday life can easily disrupt this focus, leaving one unprepared for the responsibilities of discipleship. True discipleship requires complete and unwavering dedication to fulfilling the Father’s will.

Philippians 3:13: “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself to have attained this. Instead, I am single-minded: Forgetting the things that are behind and reaching out for the things that are ahead.”

Disciplers are individuals who take on the responsibility of guiding and mentoring others in their spiritual journey, helping them grow in their faith and commitment to Christ’s teachings. Similar to a teacher or coach, they invest time, energy, and wisdom in their disciples, modeling Christ-like behavior and offering encouragement, accountability, and instruction. The goal is to foster transformation and equip others to live out their faith and, in turn, disciple others.  

Disciplers must exhibit patience, humility, and a deep understanding of the Scriptures, as their influence shapes the spiritual growth and maturity of those they mentor.

REFLECT & PRAY

In this world, success is measured by accomplishments. The more we achieve, the more successful we are perceived to be. However, in the Father’s kingdom, it is not so.

Father, please help me focus on the things that truly matter and guide me to remain steadfast in my pursuit of them.

INSIGHT

The Challenge of Discipleship

Discipleship is not for the faint of heart. It requires dedication, discipline, and clear priorities. Similar to becoming a world-class athlete or musician, discipleship involves a master-apprentice relationship. The Lord Jesus Christ is the master, and the children of the King are His apprentices. To follow Him means putting His teachings, directives, and demands above all else, even above the claims of daily life and family. These requirements are among His “hard teachings,” but they are essential for those who want to walk in His footsteps.

The Cost of Following Christ

Many express a desire to be disciples, but hidden issues often surface when the cost becomes clear. This is evident in the account of three individuals in Luke 9:57-62:
“As they were walking along, someone said to Jesus, ‘I will follow you wherever you go.’ But Jesus replied, ‘Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head.’

He said to another person, ‘Come, follow me.’ The man agreed, but he said, ‘Lord, first let me return home and bury my father.’ But Jesus told him, ‘Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead! You must go and preach about the Kingdom of God.’

Another said, ‘Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say goodbye to my family.’ But Jesus told him, ‘Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.’”

Each of these individuals faced a unique challenge:

• The first man was eager to follow until he understood the cost, relinquishing the comforts of home.
• The second man was called but hesitated, putting family obligations above the call to discipleship.
• The third man looked back instead of forward, letting personal attachments get in the way of his commitment.

These examples highlight the profound sacrifices required to follow Christ. Discipleship requires a steadfast commitment to the mission. Any hesitation, looking back, or clinging to worldly concerns can result in disastrous consequences.

Discipleship: A Call for All

Although the price of discipleship may appear intimidating, it is not exclusive to a select few. The final words of the Lord Jesus Christ before His ascension underscore the inclusive nature of this calling.

Matthew 28:18-20:

Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.’
‘Go, therefore, make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.’
‘Teaching these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’”

In this passage, the Lord Jesus Christ reassures His followers that He has all the authority needed to empower them in their mission. He promises to accompany them on their journey, emphasizing that this call is meant for everyone, not just the wise, powerful, or affluent.

As Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 1:26-28:

“Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you.

Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful.

God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.”

The Command to Make Disciples

The central command in Matthew 28:19-20 is to “make disciples,” which is derived from the Greek verb matheteuo. This term carries a profound meaning, emphasizing the “intentional act of guiding someone to become a committed follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is not a passive process but an active and deliberate effort to lead others into a life of faith, obedience, and spiritual growth.”

The command to make disciples is comprehensive, involving three interconnected aspects:

• Going: The first step in making disciples is to actively go out into the world. This means leaving one’s comfort zone and engaging with people from all nations and backgrounds. It reflects the global scope of the Great Commission, emphasizing that the gospel message is for everyone, regardless of culture, ethnicity, or location. The act of “going” requires initiative, courage, and a willingness to meet people where they are.
• Baptizing: Baptism is the outward sign of an inward transformation. It is a public declaration of faith and a commitment to follow Christ. By baptizing new believers “in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,” disciples are welcomed into the community of faith, God’s Forever Family. It symbolizes their union with Christ and inclusion in the body of believers. This act is both a spiritual milestone and a communal celebration of a new identity in Christ.

• Teaching: Making disciples doesn’t end with conversion or baptism; it involves an ongoing process of teaching and nurturing new believers to understand and follow Christ’s commands. This consists of modeling Christ-like behavior, fostering spiritual growth, and equipping disciples to live out their faith and disciple others.

Together, these three parts, going, baptizing, and teaching, form a complete approach to discipleship. They highlight the active, relational, and transformative nature of the Great Commission, calling every believer to join in the mission of making disciples and expanding God’s kingdom.

The Lord Jesus Christ invited every child of the King to follow Him, promising to make them “fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). This invitation is not just a call to follow but also a call to lead others into discipleship. Each of us has been created for this purpose: to share the message of the gospel from our immediate surroundings to the ends of the earth. There are no exceptions.

Empowered by Christ’s Authority

We can confidently fulfill this mission because the Lord Jesus Christ has our back. He has provided all the power and authority needed to make it happen. As Stanley notes, the truth of Jesus is supported by His power and presence, enabling even the most ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary things. Discipleship is not about human achievement but about faithfully following the Master and trusting in His strength.

Success in the Father’s Kingdom

In the Father’s kingdom, success is not defined by worldly standards. It is measured by our faithfulness, focus, and dedication to His purposes.

Discipleship, like plowing, requires hard work and perseverance. It is not about looking back at past achievements or failures but about pressing forward with a steadfast heart, trusting in the Father’s guidance and provision.

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© Dr. H 2026