RiverStone Rhythms - Episode 19

Episode 19: Learning from Jesus – The Rhythms of Discipleship

What does it truly mean to follow Jesus? For many, discipleship is reduced to belief alone, but Jesus calls us to something deeper—an invitation to learn from Him, to walk in His ways, and to be transformed by His rhythms of life. In this episode, we explore how following Jesus requires more than intention; it requires formation. Through Scripture, we will examine the patterns of Jesus’ life and consider how adopting His practices can shape us into His likeness.

Episode Highlights:

* Reflection on Last Week’s Theme – A brief look back at Episode 18’s discussion on the call to follow Jesus. What does Matthew’s Gospel reveal about the cost and commitment of discipleship?

* The Invitation to Learn from Jesus – In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to take His yoke upon us and learn from Him. What does this invitation mean for our daily lives?

* The Importance of Rhythms and Practices – Discipleship is not accidental; it is shaped by intentional practices. Looking at how Jesus lived, we explore key spiritual rhythms:

* Prayer and Solitude (Mark 1:35) – Jesus regularly withdrew to pray. How can we cultivate space for silence and communion with God?

* Community and Fellowship (Acts 2:42) – The early church modeled devotion to teaching, fellowship, and shared life. How does biblical community shape our spiritual growth?

* Scripture and Teaching (Luke 4:16) – Jesus was deeply rooted in Scripture. What role does regular engagement with God’s Word play in our discipleship?

* Service and Generosity (John 13:12-17) – Jesus modeled servant-hearted leadership. How do we embody His posture of humility in our relationships?

* Overcoming Obstacles to Spiritual Formation – Why is it so difficult to live like Jesus in today’s culture? We examine four common challenges:

* Hurry – The busyness of life makes it hard to slow down and abide in Christ.

* Distraction – Constant input from technology and media pulls us away from spiritual disciplines.

* Cultural Pressures – The world resists the cost of true discipleship.

* Lack of Knowledge – Many desire to follow Jesus but struggle to know how.

* A Practical Challenge for This Week – What is one small step you can take to align your life with the rhythms of Jesus? We encourage listeners to choose one intentional practice, such as beginning the day in silence and prayer before engaging with technology.

Reflection Questions:

* What area of your life needs a new rhythm?

* What is one step you can take this week to follow Jesus more intentionally?

We invite you to journal about your experience, reflect on what resonates with you, and share your thoughts in the comments or community discussion. As we continue this journey, let’s commit to practicing the way of Jesus together.

If you’re following along with Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer, we encourage you to read the next section and consider how formation happens through consistent spiritual habits. Here is a general reading plan to follow along with us: (some of the scripture passages may change as we feel led)

Month 1: The Call to Follow Jesus

* Focus: Exploring the foundational call to discipleship in Matthew’s Gospel.

* Reading: Pages 11-172 of Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer

* Scripture Passages:

* Matthew 4:18-22 (The calling of the first disciples).

* Matthew 11:28-30 (The yoke of Jesus)

Month 2: Living as Followers of Jesus

* Focus: Integrating discipleship into daily rhythms and spiritual practices.

* Reading: Pages 173 - End of Practicing the Way (focus on the spiritual disciplines and living in community).

* Scripture Passages:

* Matthew 6:25-34 (Trusting God’s provision).

* Matthew 28:18-20 (The Great Commission).

Be sure to subscribe and stay connected for future episodes as we continue exploring what it means to follow Jesus in the everyday moments of life.

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