Matthew 11:29  “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” 

Western culture has stressed the value of lifelong learning throughout the last few decades. Lifelong learning encourages deliberate and continuous growth in knowledge and understanding, both practical and theoretical, as opposed to limiting education to formal school settings.

However, Jesus instructed his disciples to become lifelong learners of him thousands of years before our modern style of thinking. He referred to it as discipleship.

The Gospel authors repeatedly quote Jesus as saying, “Follow me.” Jesus urged people of all ages to imitate His way of life and carry out the Father’s desire.

As Christians in the twenty-first century, our goal remains the same. Jesus must be our primary source of lifelong learning. We must examine and imitate Jesus’ surrender to the Father, accept God’s teachings on sin, repentance, and forgiveness, and adhere to the Spirit’s guidance on justice, righteousness, and love.

Too frequently, we emphasise making disciples but neglect to practise discipleship. In actuality, we cannot make disciples of Jesus until we first become disciples of Jesus. It has to start with us.

The Apostle Paul said, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ,” (1 Corinthians 11:1). In another translation that reads, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” 

In order to encourage people to imitate us, we mimic Jesus as lifelong learners and in the power of the Spirit. We are motivated to act morally by encouraging other Christians to follow our example. Although we don’t always follow Jesus exactly, as He transforms us through the power of the Holy Spirit, we learn from Him and grow closer to Him through time.

So talk to Jesus frequently throughout the day and listen to Him. Then follow whatever guidance He gives you in your heart as you seek to learn from Him.