Pastor Jose H. Cortes Jr., Director of Adventist Youth Ministries, with his wife Joanne, and their sons Jose III & Joel Benjamin.

“I’m not just a Church Member…I’m a DISCIPLE of CHRIST.”

This is the theme for the youth and young adults in the Greater New York Conference for the year 2008, but in reality this should be our personal theme for life. A disciple of Christ is someone who has the same priorities Christ has. The main priority of Jesus as He came to this earth was to save those who were lost.

How can I be a DISCIPLE? Matthew 28:19, 20 is known as the Great Commission, it was given by Jesus to his disciples before He ascended to heaven: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” How do you make a disciple? (1) “…baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” (2) “…and teaching them…” (3) “… to obey everything I have commanded you…” (4) “…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Accepting Jesus through Baptism, learning His teachings, not our traditions, but His teachings, obedience to His commandments, and the assurance of His daily presence in our lives till He comes are the key ingredients for a disciple. It is important to know that He does not expect us to do this alone, it would be impossible. This is why He assures you and me that He is with us till the end. A DISCIPLE is not bound by peer pressure, traditions, corruption, indifference, budgets, or difficult living conditions. A DISCIPLE loves Jesus and His Church and works hard and smart at making more DISCIPLES. A DISCIPLE does not hide or run trying to escape from the world, but goes into the world, like Jesus did to save those who are lost.

Together with the rest of the leadership of the Conference and the Adventist Youth Ministries Department, we pray that during this year we will help you on your journey to discipleship. Keep in mind: “You are not just a Church member, you are a DISCIPLE of Christ.” If that’s true, that’s awesome.

Love you guys,
Jose
Pastor José H. Cortés Jr.
Director of Adventist Youth Ministries