Author: Pastor Mark Toone

John 18

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus showed self-control and restraint as he was arrested, taken away and questioned by religious and civil authorities.   We must be willing to speak the truth about God even in hostile environments. What did I learn about disciple-making? Sometimes disciples will run away when they face persecution or […]

Read More… from John 18

John 17

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus prays for himself, for his present disciples, and for his future disciples. We need to pray regularly about the themes of protection, unity, and Jesus’ glorification. What did I learn about disciple-making? A primary strategy God employs to disciple the world is to sanctify believers through his word. […]

Read More… from John 17

John 16

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus must depart so he can send the Holy Spirit. (7) Jesus doesn’t give me more than I can bear. (12)  What did I learn about disciple-making? Asking and receiving, in Jesus’ name, will bring great joy. (24) The Holy Spirit will guide me in the truth and bring […]

Read More… from John 16

John 15

What did I learn about Jesus? Fruit-bearing is a natural part of being a follower of Jesus To bear fruit I must remain connected to Jesus What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciples who remain connected to Jesus can ask for whatever they wish! (7) I bring glory to the Father when I bear fruit. […]

Read More… from John 15

John 13

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus showed his disciples the “full extent of his love” by washing their feet. We demonstrate God’s love when we serve others.  What did I learn about disciple-making? Loving others is the prerequisite to all disciple-making. We model disciple-making best when we love others sacrificially. Extended thoughts and observations […]

Read More… from John 13

John 12

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus was not put off by extravagant expression of love toward him. What does it look like for me to express my love for God in an extravagant way? What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciple-makers need to evaluate their motives in ministry so they are seeking God’s praise […]

Read More… from John 12

John 11

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus shows his humanity when he weeps over Lazarus’ death with Mary and Martha.  Being present with people in their grieving is a powerful act of love.  What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciple-makers who empathize with grieving disciples perform a powerful ministry. Disciple-makers can help disciples see past […]

Read More… from John 11

John 10

What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus is the Shepherd who laid down his life for the sheep (us!) We must go through Jesus to experience abundant life.  What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciple-makers guard and protect younger disciples from the enemy who is out to kill, steal and destroy. As a disciple-maker I […]

Read More… from John 10