Yesterday we began considering Isaiah’s farming metaphor applied to the discipleship process. He opened with an observation I interpreted to mean: repentance: required, yes; never-ending, no.

Give ear, and hear my voice; give attention, and hear my speech. Does he who plows for sowing plow continually? Does he continually open and harrow his ground? (Isaiah 28.23, 24, ESV)

If we want fruit, we must sow seed. It’s not enough just to clear out the ground.

When he has leveled its surface, does he not scatter dill, sow cumin, and put in wheat in rows and barley in its proper place, and emmer as the border? (Isaiah 28.25, ESV)

Different kinds of seed and different methods of sowing:

• Scatter dill
• Sow cumin
• Put wheat in rows

If I’m using this as a metaphor for teaching others, I must recognize individual differences both in what they need, how I teach, and how they respond. (Again, see the parable of the sower, Matthew 13.1 – 23.) Some content can be picked up from a lecture (sermon) or a book. Skills (how to have daily time with God, how to pray, how to do Bible study) need to be demonstrated and practiced one-to-one or in small groups.

People are different: gospel presentations (e.g., the Bridge, the Four Laws, etc.) don’t guarantee results; discipleship tools (e.g., the 2:7 Series) that are effective for some people will not work for others.

This is why Isaiah is clear that we need to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit:

For he is rightly instructed; his God teaches him. (Isaiah 28.26, ESV)

Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment. (John 16.7, 8, ESV)

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (John 16.13, ESV)