The Disciple

In The Disciple, Lucy Peppiatt addresses the question of what it means to become like Jesus in the context of our everyday lives. Through the gifts of the Word and the Spirit, our communities, and our circumstances in life, God forms us into the likeness of his Son and leads us into a life of freedom, in relationship with the Father, where we experience what it means to become truly and fully human. The Disciple brings together theological depth, stories from Scripture, and examples from everyday life to paint a picture of the dynamic work of God in our lives and how we might respond to his work so that we are brought into the richness and reality of the life of the kingdom. Following Jesus means being apprenticed and schooled in the ways of freedom and the fullness of life. The Disciple combines theology and practice, including suggestions of how to respond in practical ways, as individuals, and in our communities, to the calling of God on our lives to follow him.In Peppiatt we find that all-too-rare combination of biblical scholar, academic theologian, and church planter who brings her winsomeness and wisdom, her gifts as teacher and pastor, to show us how we can develop a church community whose members really do look like Christ!--Simon Ponsonby, Dean of Studies, Oxford Centre of Church GrowthThis is a wise book. It shows wisdom gained through Peppiatt's journey of discipleship and her vast experience of accompanying and nurturing others in faith. It is an account written by someone who knows the way of faith passes through the wilderness, that there are Gethsemanes to be faced. Yet this account of Christian discipleship is, above all, a testimony to the sufficiency of God's grace. I warmly commend it to you.--From the Foreword by Murray Rae, University of Otago, New ZealandThe Disciple is deceptive in its simplicity. It is a work of theology, shaped by a deep understanding of the great doctrines regarding the person of Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, and divine providence. Yet it is everywhere pastoral rather than polemical, making space for the gospel to bring Christian life to fruition and form among those willing to reflect on its grandest themes.--Alan Spence, author of Justification: A Guide for the Perplexed With the head of a theologian and the heart of a pastor, Peppiatt has written a work of profound and searching spiritual theology. This is a book that teaches what it means to be a disciple of Christ, apprentice to the Master. Whether you are new to the faith or someone who has been a follower for many years, there is much in this little book that will challenge, encourage, and comfort you.--Oliver D. Crisp, Professor of Systematic Theology, Fuller Theological SeminaryLucy Peppiatt is the Dean of Studies at Westminster Theological Centre (UK) and lectures in systematic theology. She is also a pastor at Crossnet Church in Bristol, UK, which she leads with her husband, Nick Crawley. Crossnet is an Anglican community focused on discipleship and mission.