Serving as pastor of one congregation for over twenty years, I’ve prayed with a lot of people.  Many have asked Jesus for forgiveness.  Many have asked Him to lead their lives.  It sure seemed like they received Jesus into their hearts.  

Out of the many that prayed, however, only a few people actually continued on to become mature followers of Jesus.

For the many, once they believed they were going to heaven, they got busy doing other things.  Choices were made.  The old friends called.  The ruts of old routines were deep.  Soon that great beginning of walking with Christ was buried in an avalanche of other obligations and higher priorities.

Why does this happen?  Perhaps there was a commitment to Christ without a true counting of the cost.  Once the true demands of discipleship were discovered, the narrow way was too narrow.  They walked away from Jesus just like those in John 6:66.  The commitment made to Jesus was never sincere and total.

Another possibility for why people don’t mature in Christ is a lack of knowledge, support and godly example.  Church leadership often encourages the sinner to pray the prayer of salvation.  It is not as common, however, for church leadership to spend the time and effort necessary to support believers as they develop into mature disciples.  

Sure, some may not have sincerely made a commitment to Christ when they prayed.  RUA Disciple is dedicated to the others.  RUA Disciple strives to provide biblical truth in bite sized lessons delivered electronically.  We also strive to provide support, biblical instruction, and encouragment to any who follow Jesus.