Discipleship, while often associated with the New Testament and the teachings of Jesus and his followers, has roots and principles that can be understood within the Old Testament context as well. Here are some key aspects of discipleship from the perspective of the Old Testament:
1. Following God’s Commands:
The centrality of obedience to God is a fundamental principle. Discipleship involves following the laws and commandments given by God, as seen in the Torah (the first five books of the Bible). For instance, Deuteronomy 6:5-7 emphasizes loving God and teaching His commandments to children, which reflects a discipleship model within families and communities.
2. The Role of the Teacher:
Throughout the Old Testament, we see figures like Moses, Joshua, and the prophets who serve as leaders and teachers. Moses, for example, serves as an intermediary between God and the Israelites, guiding them in the ways of the Lord (Exodus 18:20). This teacher-student relationship is key to understanding discipleship in the Old Testament context.
3. Mentorship:
The relationship between Elijah and Elisha serves as a classic example of mentorship and discipleship. Elisha follows Elijah and learns from him, ultimately continuing his prophetic ministry (1 Kings 19:19-21; 2 Kings 2). This illustrates the importance of passing on spiritual wisdom and practices.
4. Community and Covenant:
Discipleship in the Old Testament is often understood within the framework of the covenant community. The Israelites, as God’s chosen people, are called to live in a way that reflects their covenantal relationship with God, supporting one another in maintaining faithfulness. Exodus 19:5-6 indicates that Israel is to be a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation."
5. Imitation of Righteousness:
The concept of imitating the righteous exemplars found in the narratives and wisdom literature of the Old Testament is an important aspect of discipleship. For instance, Proverbs emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom and understanding, often in the context of parental guidance and mentorship (Proverbs 1:8).
6. Prayer and Worship:
Discipleship involves an active relationship with God through prayer and worship. The Psalms are filled with prayers and expressions of reliance on God, highlighting the importance of a personal relationship with Him. Daily rituals, such as sacrifices and festivals, also foster community worship and adherence to God’s ways.
7. Transformation of Character:
The journey of discipleship in the Old Testament often involves personal transformation. Characters like David and Solomon exemplify complex journeys of faith, demonstrating growth and failure. The prophetic call to repentance and return to God (e.g., the messages of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Hosea) illustrates the need for inner change and alignment with God's will.
8. Hope in the Future:
The Old Testament also brings forth the concept of hope and future restoration. The prophetic writings often emphasize a coming Messiah and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. This eschatological aspect of discipleship speaks to the longing and expectation for God’s kingdom, which is more fully realized in the New Testament.
Conclusion:
In summary, discipleship from an Old Testament perspective is deeply rooted in the relationship with God, obedience to His commandments, community life, mentorship, and the pursuit of righteousness and wisdom. It sets the stage for the fuller development of discipleship in the New Testament as seen through the teachings and practices of Jesus and his followers.