Discover Your Spiritual Legacy: Dr. Chris Harper’s Powerful Message on Discipleship

Join Dr. Chris Harper in this inspiring sermon from the “Summer at Graceway” series as he delves into the profound topics of spiritual history, legacy, and discipleship. Learn how every believer is called and qualified to make disciples, regardless of their past. Dr. Harper shares personal anecdotes and biblical insights to encourage and empower you to take on the role of a spiritual parent. This message is a call to action for all Christians to step into their God-given purpose and make a lasting impact.

In his compelling sermon delivered during the “Summer at Graceway” series, Dr. Chris Harper explores the profound themes of spiritual history, legacy, and discipleship. The message, titled “Qualified,” centers on the biblical truth that every believer is called and qualified to make disciples, regardless of their past experiences or perceived shortcomings.

Dr. Harper begins by acknowledging the rich spiritual history and legacy that Graceway Church embodies, highlighted by its impactful leaders such as Pastor Jeff Adams and Pastor Tim Dunn. He draws inspiration from Eugene Peterson’s concept of “long obedience in the same direction,” emphasizing the importance of steadfast faith and commitment over time.

The central scripture for the sermon is 2 Timothy 1:1-2, where Paul addresses Timothy, his spiritual son. Dr. Harper reflects on Paul’s journey from being Saul, a persecutor of Christians, to becoming one of the most influential apostles. This transformation, Dr. Harper notes, underscores the power of God’s grace and the truth that no one is beyond redemption or qualification for discipleship.

Dr. Harper candidly addresses a common struggle among believers: the feeling of inadequacy when it comes to discipling others. He shares research indicating that many Christians do not engage in discipleship because they do not feel qualified. However, he passionately affirms that if Jesus is your Lord and Savior, you are indeed qualified and called to make disciples who make disciples.

The sermon is rich with vivid biblical analogies and personal anecdotes. Dr. Harper paints a stark picture of humanity’s fallen state by comparing us to various biblical figures like Cain, Goliath, the Pharisees, and the Prodigal Son. He emphasizes that we were not merely lost orphans but enemies of God, highlighting the extraordinary nature of divine grace that adopts us into God’s family despite our rebellion.

Dr. Harper’s message is also a call to recognize and step into the role of spiritual parents. He recounts the significant impact of individuals like Edward Kimball, a humble Sunday school teacher who, through his dedication, indirectly influenced millions, including notable figures like D.L. Moody and Billy Graham. This lineage of spiritual influence exemplifies how ordinary acts of discipleship can have extraordinary, far-reaching effects.

The sermon further explores different models of discipleship—teaching, mentoring, and coaching—pointing out their limitations. Dr. Harper argues that while these roles are valuable, true spiritual parenting goes beyond them. A spiritual parent guides, walks alongside, and shares life experiences with their spiritual children, much like Jesus did with his disciples. This relational and holistic approach is essential for genuine discipleship.

Dr. Harper vividly illustrates this concept by sharing his personal experience with a retired pipefitter who became his spiritual mentor. Despite having a sixth-grade education, this man profoundly impacted Dr. Harper’s spiritual journey, demonstrating that qualifications for spiritual parenting are not measured by worldly standards but by a heart willing to obey God and invest in others.

Throughout the sermon, Dr. Harper emphasizes the importance of multigenerational discipleship. He critiques the modern church’s tendency to segregate by age and stage, advocating instead for a model where wisdom and experience are passed down through generations. He encourages older believers to take younger ones under their wing, creating a ripple effect of spiritual growth and maturity.

Dr. Harper concludes with a passionate exhortation for every believer to embrace their role as a disciple-maker. He challenges the congregation to respond actively to the message, whether by starting discipleship relationships in their homes, workplaces, or communities. The ultimate vision he casts is one of a vibrant, disciple-making church that transforms lives and impacts the world for Christ.

Keywords: spiritual legacy, discipleship, qualified, spiritual history, Dr. Chris Harper, Summer at Graceway, make disciples, spiritual parent, biblical insights, Christian faith, church sermon, Graceway Church, Second Timothy, Paul and Timothy, spiritual growth, Christian encouragement.

[MrRobbiefitz]

Holy smokes that man was cookin’. Jesus is king of the universe!