How to be a Good Disciple of Christ

Summary

In this insightful video, Fr. Mike Schmitz explores the essentials of being a disciple of Jesus. He emphasizes that true discipleship is about developing a deep relationship with God, which involves recognizing our rights and responsibilities as children of God. Fr. Mike outlines four key principles: cultivating a relationship with Christ, showing up both physically and mentally, practicing consistency in faith, and keeping commitments to God and others. These habits are vital for spiritual growth and transformation, helping individuals to embody the teachings and character of Jesus in their daily lives.

Takeaways

• 😀 Discipleship involves being like Jesus, conforming to the Father's will.
• 😀 A real relationship with God includes both rights and responsibilities.
• 😀 Showing up for prayer and Mass requires both exterior and interior presence.
• 😀 Consistency in prayer and commitments is more impactful than sporadic intensity.
• 😀 Faithfulness means being steadfast and consistent in living out one's faith.
• 😀 Disciples must keep their commitments to God and others as part of their covenant relationship.
• 😀 The four basics of discipleship include relationship, showing up, consistency, and keeping commitments.
• 😀 Developing a relationship with God is a process that requires growth over time.
• 😀 Small, daily efforts in faith practice lead to transformative changes in one’s life.
• 😀 Discipleship is ultimately about becoming people who reflect the character of Jesus.

Q & A

What is the main focus of discipleship according to Fr. Mike?

The main focus of discipleship is to become like Jesus, which involves being interiorly conformed to the Father's will and living in relationship with Him.

What are the four basics of discipleship mentioned in the video?

The four basics of discipleship are: 1) Relationship, 2) Showing up, 3) Consistency, and 4) Keeping commitments.

How does Fr. Mike define a real relationship with God?

A real relationship with God involves having both real rights, such as access to the Father's heart, and real responsibilities, meaning one must live according to God's calling.

Why is it important to show up both externally and internally in prayer and worship?

Showing up externally means being physically present, while showing up internally means being mentally and emotionally engaged, which is crucial for a genuine relationship with God.

What does consistency mean in the context of discipleship?

Consistency in discipleship means being steadfast in prayer, attendance at Mass, and other spiritual practices, rather than sporadic or occasional participation.

What is the difference between intensity and consistency in spiritual practices?

Intensity refers to the depth or fervor of a particular spiritual experience, while consistency emphasizes regular, everyday practice. Fr. Mike argues that consistency is more effective for spiritual growth.

What does keeping commitments involve for a disciple?

Keeping commitments involves adhering to the decisions made in the context of one's relationship with God and others, including following God's commandments.

How does Fr. Mike suggest that these four habits of discipleship can transform a person?

These four habits, when practiced with God's grace, transform individuals into people who live, look, and act like Christ.

What is the ultimate goal of discipleship according to Fr. Mike?

The ultimate goal of discipleship is to become like Christ and embody His teachings and example in everyday life.

How does Fr. Mike conclude his discussion on the basics of discipleship?

Fr. Mike concludes by emphasizing that practicing these four habits of discipleship will lead to transformation, encouraging viewers to engage with the content further by liking, subscribing, and sharing.