Teaching the Way of the Kingdom

Biblical Instruction, Spiritual Discipline, and Modeling the Life of Christ

True discipleship is more than passing on facts—it is teaching the way of the King. This means instructing others not just what Jesus said, but how He lived—and calling them to follow in that same pattern. We are called to teach with our words, lives, and love.

“Go therefore and make disciples… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
— Matthew 28:19–20

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Biblical Instruction Is Foundational

The early Church rooted their children and disciples in Scripture and the teachings of Christ. They believed the Word was clear, sufficient, and Spirit-breathed—able to equip all believers for every good work.

“From childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to make you wise for salvation.”
— 2 Timothy 3:15

“Let each one be diligent in the reading of Scripture, and do not twist it according to your own desire.”
— Didache, ch. 4

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Teaching Requires Living the Message

You cannot pass on what you do not live. Children and new believers need to see the Word in action. Faithfulness, forgiveness, humility, holiness—these are caught as much as they are taught.

“Set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”
— 1 Timothy 4:12

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Spiritual Discipline Cultivates Depth

Teaching the Way includes helping others practice prayer, fasting, Scripture reading, worship, and obedience. These disciplines root believers deeply in Christ and guard against shallow, fruitless faith.

“Teach the young to pray always and to fast with gladness, for in these things they learn the nearness of God.”
— Hermas, Mandate 12

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The Goal Is Christlikeness

Discipleship is not about creating followers of us—but followers of Jesus. The aim is to see His life formed in theirs, to make true Kingdom citizens who obey the King from the heart.

“Let every teaching lead to the imitation of Christ.”
— Ignatius of Antioch, Letter to the Ephesians

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What We Can Learn

1. Teaching the Kingdom begins with teaching Scripture.
2. Disciples need models, not just messages.
3. Spiritual disciplines are tools for transformation.
4. The goal is not behavior management—it’s Christlikeness.

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Sources:

• The Holy Bible — Matthew 28:19–20; 2 Timothy 3:15–17; 1 Timothy 4:12–16; Colossians 1:28
• Didache, ch. 4
• Hermas, Mandate 12
• Ignatius of Antioch, Letter to the Ephesians
• Clement of Rome, 1 Clement 48

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