Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Afterward Moses would return to the camp, but the young man who assisted him, Joshua son of Nun, would remain behind in the Tent of Meeting.
Exodus 33:11 NLT
This encounter, recorded in Exodus 33:11, encapsulates a profound biblical concept — discipleship. Discipleship is a sacred journey of preparation and learning divinely orchestrated by God for a man to be formed into God’s plan for his life. It is God’s family process of learning from a discipler who can guide us in our walk with God. It is a vital part of our spiritual growth and preparation for God’s purpose. This divine relationship between a mentor and a disciple holds the key to understanding the unfolding purpose of God, as exemplified in the lives of Moses and Joshua. Let’s delve into the layers of this biblical concept, unravelling the intricacies of discipleship that mould individuals for a divine assignment, echoing through generations.
Joshua was a young man who assisted Moses in his ministry. He followed Moses wherever he went, whether it was to the mountain or the tent of meeting where God spoke to Moses face to face. He followed to at the foot of the mountain and in climbing also. Joshua observed how Moses engaged God and received answers to his requests. He also learned how to fight against the enemies of God, as he led the army of Israel against the Amalekites while Moses prayed on the hill.
Joshua did not just follow Moses out of curiosity or duty. He had a desire to know God personally and intimately, as he saw in Moses. He wanted to hear God’s voice and see His glory. Furthermore, he learnt patience in waiting in God’s presence while waiting for Moses on the mountain. So, when Moses would leave the tent of meeting, Joshua stayed back. Perhaps to practice what he had learned and commune with God himself.
Meanwhile, Joshua’s discipleship was not in vain. Though he was unaware, but he was being prepared by God for a greater assignment. God chose him to succeed Moses and lead the Israelites into the promised land. He was the one who God gave the courage and wisdom to conquer the enemies and divide the inheritance.
The Value of Discipleship
Joshua’s story teaches us several lessons about the value of discipleship. Discipleship is not a passive or distant activity. It requires commitment, dedication, and obedience. We need to follow closely and learn from their example. We need to go where they go and do what they do. Likewise, we need to listen to their instructions and apply them to our lives. Meanwhile, we must do these things willingly.
Also, discipleship is not a one-time or short-term activity. It is a lifelong journey of training, growth and transformation. Therefore, we need to remain in the presence of God and seek Him constantly. We need to grow in our knowledge and understanding of His word and will. We need to mature in our faith and character as we face various challenges and opportunities.
Additionally, discipleship is not a selfish or aimless activity. It is a purposeful and fruitful activity. We are not disciples without a goal, but with a vision. God has a plan and a destiny for each of us. He wants to use us for His glory and His kingdom. He wants to make us a blessing to others and a witness to the world. Furthermore, discipleship is for us to learn of God and not people (the discipler). Therefore, discipleship must lead us to know God and become more like Him.
While all of the above is essential, another critical aspect is worth noting. “…but the young man who assisted him, Joshua son of Nun…” Joshua didn’t commit to discipleship in his old age. If he hadn’t embraced discipleship early, he wouldn’t have had Moses as a mentor or the strength for the challenges he faced.
The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young.
Lamentations 3:25-27 NIV
in conclusion, discipleship is a vital part of our spiritual journey. It helps us to grow closer to God and fulfil His purpose. We can learn from the example of Joshua, a faithful disciple of Moses and became a great leader of Israel. He followed Moses closely, learned from his example, and remained in God’s presence. He was prepared by God for a greater assignment and honoured by God with a long and prosperous life. Let us follow Joshua’s example and be faithful disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate discipler and leader. He will guide us, teach us, and empower us to do His will and inherit His promises. He will reward us with His presence, His peace, and His joy.