THE INCENTIVES UNDERLYING JESUS' DISCIPLESHIP IN THE LUCAN TRADITION

Discipleship is a vital tool for sustaining sound Christianity. However the significance of discipleship can only be fully appreciated by taking cognisance of its motivational dimension. This aspect has been neglected in theory and practice. The Lucan tradition shows rich motivational discipleship because of its recognition of realistic settings for people's decision to become disciples of Jesus. Although motivation is indispensable in human endeavour the author of Luke-Acts recommends a quite different one from the ordinary perspective which places emphasis on rational calculation. Thus discipleship is a faith-based response that stems from a transformative encounter with Jesus which transcends a break-even or profitability analysis. It challenges disciples to find ultimate motivation in God's kingdom rooted in divine grace and eternal purpose. Within this perspective are specific incentives for the followers: Jesus' Messianic identity; the promise of eschatological salvation; Jesus' act of mercy; Jesus' miracles; Jesus' teachings; Jesus' resurrection and ascension; the Pentecost event; fellowship of disciples and Jesus' continual guidance.