A Life of Willing Sacrifice for the Lord: GFA School of Discipleship

The average young adult in America looks forward expectantly to a life free from the rules of home; free to build their future; free to make their own decisions. They look forward to the world of adulthood that they see being living out around them.

This is natural and, therefore, to be expected.


However, there are also those who have responded to the call of the Lord to present themselves as a “living sacrifice” forsaking their own dreams to be set apart for His work. The Apostle Paul describes this as their “reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1)

It is not possible to present ourselves as a “living sacrifice” unless we do it as a “willing sacrifice.” Doing so requires an entirely different mindset.

Paul explained that mindset in his letter to the Philippians (Philippians 2:5-8). Although Jesus had all the riches of Heaven to enjoy for all of eternity, He “made Himself of no reputation and took the form of a servant.” This required that He humble himself.

The Creator gave up everything to become a willing sacrifice for us. That is why it is our reasonable service to do the same for Him.

If he gave up everything that we might live, should we not give up everything to live for Him?

The GFA School of Discipleship is one year of willing sacrifice in which students commit to serving the Lord above self.

It all begins with a willingness to present themselves, not to GFA, but to the Lord. The School of Discipleship is simply the instrument the Lord uses to help the willing students understand a true life of willing sacrifice in the Lord’s service.

Students learn under the tutelage and example of GFA staff members. Principles of godly living taught in the classroom are lived out in service and holiness as a lifestyle.

A willing sacrifice is one who chooses to be holy, that is, set apart from the world and unto the Lord. So, what is the School of Discipleship student really sacrificing?

He or she is sacrificing the world and the things of this world – all of which are passing away and are, therefore, nothing to be held onto.


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