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Patterns of Discipleship in the New Testament (McMaster New Testament Studies)

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Patterns of Discipleship in the New Testament, Longenecker

This collection of articles by biblical scholars shows how the characteristics and description of a life of discipleship can vary with the world situations of the disciples. By exploring the topic of discipleship in the different New Testament books, this volume shows how each of the writers presents diverse concepts of Christian discipleship within the continuity of Christian faith experience across cultures and events. Each author does this in a manner related to his own ideological background and perspectives. Each is attentive to the perceived needs of his/her audience and the details of the day. Each portrait of discipleship in the many different New Testament communities portrays authentic Christian experience. The wide range of concerns proves the wisdom of the canon of Scripture in giving us all their voices. This diversity also cautions us today when we are tempted to single out one expression of discipleship without regard for the others.
These many expressions of discipleship are many facets of one jewel. They lead to and correct one another. For example, Hurtado shows how the gospel of Mark highlights the dangers that disciples must avoid and promises forgiveness when they fail. In Mark, Jesus is the only adequate model for discipleship, in contrast to the bumbling Twelve. When we look at Jesus for a model in Mark, we see that the way his way begins with baptism, proceeds despite temptation and opposition, culminates in suffering and death, with vindication an unseen hope requiring faith. In the gospel of Matthew, Donaldson shows, the disciples' ineffectiveness does not hinder Jesus mission. They will play a significant role only after the crucifixion. Luke/Acts (Longenecker) presents a more direct link between the mission of Jesus and the mission of the Church. Luke shows how discipleship requires a new attitude toward wealth and call for a new lifestyle that puts allegiance to Jesus first. The relational aspect of discipleship, the vine and the branches, is the model promoted in the Johannine literature (Hillmer). These churches relied on the community as they became increasingly isolated from their surrounding culture. Weima highlights Paul's radical call to sexual integrity, responsibility and holiness in his Greek milieu. Belleville points out Paul's teaching that his Corinthians should imitate him, and only incidentally Jesus. Paul brings in the principle that Christians are free to engage their culture as long as the disciple's freedom does not scandalize other disciples. This means that a disciple sets aside personal rights and privileges for the good of others.
While it is very helpful to see how all the threads of teaching about discipleship can be woven together from the New Testament patterns, the garment has some holes in it. The book reveals a critical flaw is in the New Testament's treatment of women disciples and lack of sensitivity to their contributions. Another problem with relying on the New Testament for a portrait of discipleship is that so many modern understandings and issues do not fit easily into the biblical mold. The Holy Spirit is teaching us much more about following Jesus than was written down and made part of the New Testament. Other sources of scholarship and theological reflection must be included if we are to be faithful followers.