True Discipleship

 

"True Discipleship"
A Devotional Series
by Rev. George L. Erdei 

 

Introduction

Over the next few weeks, we will take a look at what it means to be a true Disciple of Jesus Christ. We will find that not everyone that is called a “Christian” meets the criteria to be one. Many are just religiously or traditionally associated with Christ and are essentially “Christian” in title only. First, let’s define the terms Christian and Disciple. 

Christian: Someone who is Christ-like. A person that exhibits the same attributes as Jesus Christ; they are like Jesus in the way they think, speak, act and respond. 

Disciple of Christ: A person who is a student or an adherent of the doctrines of Jesus Christ; a disciplined and devoted follower; one who patterns their life after Jesus.  

As believers, we are commanded to make disciples, not just converts. The following portion of scripture is called The Great Commission: Matthew 28:18-20 - Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. ¹⁹ Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 

These were the last words Jesus spoke to His disciples before He ascended back to Heaven. Certainly, the last instructions given by someone are the most urgent and highly important.

To really discover what it means to be a Disciple of Christ, we will look at the actual words of Jesus as recorded in the Bible.

 

 

Part 1 - Remaining in Christ 

John 15:7, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. ”

Whenever you see the word “if,” – it means there are conditions attached. It requires us to do something. God will always do His part in our relationship with Him. He is faithful and true and always keeps His word. It is up to us to do our part in making the relationship strong and viable.

In our verse today, Jesus tells us we are to remain in Him. We remain (abide, stay, continue) in Christ when we accept Him, not just as our Savior, but as our Lord. The word Lord means one who has authority over another, controller, master, and ruler. When we are Disciples of Christ, we are continually dying to self and allowing Jesus to live and operate through us. We are in an evolving process of becoming more like Christ. Anyone with any brains at all wants Jesus as their Savior (there is no hope without Him), but few permit Him to be the controller of their lives.

Many come to Christ and serve Him for a brief period of time, but after awhile they begin to drift away. They allow the enticements of this world, the influences of family and old friends to draw them away from the Lord. They stop serving and growing; turning back to their old ways and habits and never remain in Him. In Christian terminology this is called backsliding. For a greater understanding of responses to the word of God, read the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13:1-23.

Here’s the key question from today’s devotion: Are you passionately committed to becoming more like Christ or are you more committed to self? The answer to this question is step number one in becoming a true disciple of Jesus Christ.   

 

 

Part 2 - Bearing Fruit

John 15:8, “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

From verse 8 it is quite evident that God expects His disciples to bear much fruit. When we look at nature there are numerous trees and plants that produce fruit. In order to produce a good crop, the plants must be healthy. Also, the branches must remain attached to the main vine. Healthy plants thrive and grow when the conditions are right and they are established in the right environment; abundant sunlight, plenty of water, rich soil, proper pruning, fertilizer and pest control.

As Christians growing in the Lord, we need similar “nutrients” to enhance our development as a true disciple of Christ. Non-believers should see the good fruit we are producing and know that God is at the forefront of our lives - they should see Christ in us. When we bear much fruit, we glorify God.

The fruit we produce is developed by staying attached to the main vine – Jesus Christ; allowing His characteristics to become ours over time. John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Remember, the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in helping us to conform to the image of Christ, mature and produce fruit. Here is a list of the fruit of the Spirit from the book of Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

In direct contrast to the fruit of the Spirit are the works of the flesh as described in Galatians 5:19-21, “The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; ²⁰ idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions ²¹ and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” The above passages describe the majority of people that live without God and His Holy Spirit. They naturally produce corrupt fruit. It’s normal sinful behavior.

To be a true disciple of Christ we must win the battle between the flesh and the Spirit. This can only be achieved when we are passionately pursuing God. In the maturing process, if we have been diligent in developing our relationship with Christ, much fruit will be produced as a natural by-product and God will be glorified.

Here’s the key question from today’s devotion: When was the last time you evaluated the fruit you’re bearing?

All believers in Christ are called to be a disciple and to disciple someone else. That’s how we grow God’s kingdom – one life touching another. In our next lesson, we will explore adhering to the true teachings of Christ.

 

Part 3 - Holding & Teaching the Truth 

John 8:31-32, “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. ³² Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

First, let’s define Truth - a verified or indisputable fact, proposition or principle; an obvious or accepted fact; conformity with fact or reality.

Many people struggle with this question, “What is truth?” In our society today, many do not believe there is an absolute or universal truth. They feel truth is relative; it changes and shifts depending on circumstances, perceptions and public opinion (cultural relativism). They would argue that there are no moral absolutes; right or wrong depends on the situation (situational ethics).

Why do so many have such a hard time accepting absolute truth? One word; accountability. People want to do what is right in their own eyes (Proverbs 21:2) and not have to answer to a righteous God. They rebel against His authority and attempt to establish their own rules.

The other view (which I embrace) is the belief in a standard of truth and conduct. For me, that standard is the Holy Bible, the written word of God and Jesus Christ, the living word of God. John 17:17, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life…” Here’s the thing; when you know the truth, you will adhere (hold) to its teachings. When we know and comprehend the truth, we are set free from the guilt and shame of sin.  

Jesus tells us His true disciples hold to His teachings. They are not persuaded or enticed to change by current worldly trends or false doctrines. Mature believers diligently study God’s word, pray fervently and develop sensitive discernment from the Holy Spirit. True disciples recognize deception and lies from the enemy.

Hear these words from Ephesians 4:13-15, “Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. ¹⁴ Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. ¹⁵ Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.”

Here’s the key question from today’s devotion: Do you embrace God’s word as the ultimate authority and perpetual standard for Christian living? If your answer is “Yes”, you’re well on your way to becoming a true disciple of Jesus Christ. 

 

Part 4 - Loving One Another

John 13:34-35, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. ³⁵ By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” 

The Bible tells us in 1 John 4:8 and 1 John 4:16 that God is Love. When Jesus was born on earth, He was 100% divine and 100% human. As a result, God demonstrated His unconditional love towards mankind; John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Also, John 15:13 states, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” At the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, God displayed His greatest act of love – sacrificing His life for ours. Could anyone imagine this world without God’s unfathomable love? As humans, we only experience love and share love because of God.

The greatest thing we can do to reflect God’s attribute of love is to love like God. 1 John 4:11 says, “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” We are commanded to love one another, just as we are commanded to forgive one another. This is a must do item for all true disciples of Christ.

People that do not know God are different. They love when their love is returned. They love when it’s advantageous for them. They express love when they might receive gain or benefit from the act. Their love is conditional; based on needs, feelings or current emotions.

God’s love is intended to be unconditional. Even when we get nothing in return - we are to love. The Bible says we are to even love our enemies. Luke 6:35, “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” This is one of the most difficult things for us to achieve while here on earth - it takes the Spirit of God working in us.

Our normal reaction is to reject those that reject or hate us. The natural man returns hurt for hurt and hated for hated. However, to be a true disciple of Christ we must elevate to a higher level of thought and reaction. True disciples will actively strive towards this goal. Although we may never achieve this level of love on earth, it’s our willingness to try that God appreciates, acknowledges and blesses.

Here’s the key question from today’s devotion: Is your love unconditional and not based on the way others treat you? If your answer is “Yes”, you’re well on your way to becoming a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

Part 5 - Hate Compared to Love

Luke 14:26, “If anyone comes to  me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple." 

Wow, at first glance this seems like a very radical and extremely harsh statement from Jesus. Are we to actually hate our closest loved ones and our self in order to be a true disciple of Christ? Is that what it takes to please God?

First of all, if we were to hate as this statement appears to say, this would be a violation of other scriptures. Here are a few examples:

Matthew 19:19, “Honor your father and mother,’ and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.”

Ephesians 5:28, “In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.”

1 John 3:10, “…Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.”

1 John 4:20-21, “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. ²¹ And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.”

Since God does not contradict Himself, what was Jesus saying in verse 26? Well, the Lord was using what is called an ‘exaggeration of speech’ to drive home an important point. If we are to be true followers and Disciples of Christ, our love for Him must be so much greater than our love for anyone or anything else in this world.

In comparison to everything else, our expressed love for God would appear as though we hate everything else. The key words comparison and appear. God is teaching us that our love for Him must be supreme. We must place Him first in our life (Matthew 6:33). We cannot and should not love anything more than Him. He must be #1 in our heart. Matthew 10:37 helps to clarify this truth, “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”

Here’s the key question from today’s devotion: Is your love for God greater than anything or anyone else on earth? If you answer "Yes," True Discipleship is being demonstrated in your life.

  

Part 6 - Carry the Cross of Christ

Luke 14:27,  "And whoever does not carry their cross and    follow me cannot be my disciple.” 

In order to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ we must be willing to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. It’s easy to follow Jesus when everything is going great; our health is good, our career is on track, all of our needs are met, our relationships are fulfilling, and we have an abundance of money in the bank. However, what happens when things are not going so well? When the pressures of life begin to press us into a corner, do we serve God with the same zeal, attitude and determination? Or do we let the circumstances determine our level of commitment to God?

The original Disciples of Christ, except one (Judas Iscariot), were willing to follow Jesus - even to their physical death. All but one of the disciples died a tragic martyr’s death. Christian historical records and traditions tell us the fate of the original twelve disciples:

Simon Peter - crucified upside down

Andrew (Peter’s brother) - crucified

James - beheaded

Matthew - speared to death

Bartholomew (aka Nathanael) - beaten then crucified

Philip - crucified

Thomas - speared to death

Simon the Zealot - crucified

James - stoned to death

Thaddaeus (aka Judas son of James) - stoned to death.

Judas Iscariot - suicide by hanging – replaced by Matthias - stoned and then beheaded

Only John (brother of James) survived to old age. He was exiled to the Isle of Patmos where he was given the vision and honor of writing book of Revelation. Even the Apostle Paul, God’s choice for replacing Judas was eventually beheaded in Rome. 

As we can see, to carry the cross of Christ is the symbol of death; dying to self, living for God and placing His agenda above anything and everything else – even physical death. Are we willing to die to self? Are we willing to allow God’s will to take precedence over our own? Philippians 1:20-21 says it well, “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. ²¹ For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Personally, we may never be in danger of loosing our physical life for our faith, although in many parts of the world martyrdom still takes place. Once again, the question becomes - are we willing to lay down our life for the sake of the kingdom of God? Are we willing to set aside our own selfish wants and desires to see God’s plans and purposes implemented in our lives and in the world around us?  If your answer is “yes,” then you have what it takes to be a true Disciples of Christ.

Part 7 - Willing to Sacrifice All

Luke 14:33, “In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.”

Some people believe in order to serve God fully we must be poor and needy. They picture the servant of God as living at a poverty level; no possessions, no wealth, no status, living life day by day. The Bible tells us that God is not a respecter of persons (Acts 10:34). He is not so much concerned with our financial or social status as He is with our spiritual health and the condition of our heart.

Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” God wants to know our motives. Why do we do the things we do. He is interested in our thoughts and attitudes. A person can serve God at any level of income and social status. In fact, God places His people at every level of society to achieve His plans and purposes.

God is looking for loyal and committed servants; people that love Him more than anything. He doesn’t want other things to capture our heart and take His place. He deserves first in our hearts and lives. Here is a basic Biblical truth - when we place God first; the rest of our life is blessed and fulfilled (Matthew 6:33). Everything we do will go well when we allow God to take the reigns of our life.

Consider this principle from God’s word – Matthew 16:25-26, “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. ²⁶ What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” When we are willing to give up everything for God, that’s when we gain everything! It’s an upside down principle that is contrary to the way the world thinks.

Here’s the key question from today’s devotion: If required to do so, would you be willing to give up everything you have to gain the favor and blessings of God?  If your answer is “Yes”, you’re a top candidate to becoming a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

 

True Discipleship - Summary

This concludes our series on True Discipleship. In this lesson we summarize this devotion.

Over the past few weeks we have examined the concept of True Discipleship; looking at the words of Jesus in the Holy Scriptures. Becoming a genuine disciple of Jesus Christ is a lifelong process. It requires discipline, dedication, faithfulness, and a willingness to let God transform our lives. I personally believe we will never achieve perfection while here on earth – our perfection will come one day when we are permanently in God’s presence. Until then, we are to strive to be the very best we can be. In the process, we may become excellent and achieve extraordinary things.

The Bible tells us in Matthew 22:14, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” It is God’s desire that all would reach their full potential in Him. But, only a few will answer the call to be a true disciple of the Savior. Many will have good intentions; they will start out strong, but then allow the trials and temptations of this world to stymie their growth. They will loose their focus, stop growing in their relationship with God, and become complacent and satisfied. Some will fall away completely.

To be the kind of disciple that Jesus wants us to be requires several key elements; a steadfast mindset, an unwavering commitment and most of all, a willingness to let God be God. Listed below are the characteristics that set a true disciple apart from the other followers of Christ.

Characteristics of True Disciples:

Remain in Christ (John 15-7) – Disciples don’t just start the race with Christ - they finish the race. When the going gets rough, they don’t abandon the Lord and return to their old ways. No matter how hard it gets, they endure the trials and tribulations of life and become genuine overcomers - to the glory of God!

Bear Much Fruit (John 15:8) – The fruit of the Spirit will be openly displayed in the life of a true disciple. They guard their hearts against the corrupt attitudes and thinking patterns that are so prevalent in the world. They mimic the attributes and perspective of Jesus and become authentically Christ-like. As Christians, we are not to unfairly or harshly judge others, but we can become fruit inspectors (Matthew 7:20).

Hold to the Truth (John 8:31-32) True disciples know the truth and promote the truth. They listen intently to the Master’s instructions, learn His teaching perspectives and do not deviate from or alter His words. They develop acute discernment. When a false doctrine is promoted, they immediately recognize the counterfeit from the genuine. Disciples hold fast to their core values without compromise.

Love One-Another (John 13:34-35) Real love is exhibited in the lives of the true disciples of Christ. Love is an action word. It’s not just saying “I love you,” it’s showing I love you. When we demonstrate our love through acts of kindness and unselfish service, we become an extension of the hands of Jesus. 1 Peter 4:8 states, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

Love God Above All Else (Luke 14:26) The first of the Ten Commandments issued by God was this, Exodus 20:3, “You shall have no other gods before me.” Other gods can include possessions, power or prominence. In the New Testament, Jesus put it this way, Matthew 22:37-38, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ³⁸ This is the first and greatest commandment.” God expects an undivided heart from His disciples. Our love for Him must be greater than anything or anyone else. In comparison, our love for God is so immense that it would appear we hate all else.

Carry the Cross of Christ (Luke 14:27) God’s true disciples must be willing to sacrifice all for the cause of Christ. The cross of Jesus Christ represents death. We may have to endure pain, suffering, rejection, ridicule, or even physical death for our faith and devotion to Him. We must be willing to die to self and allow the Spirit of God to rule and reign in our hearts and lives. Luke 22:42, “…yet not my will, but yours be done.”

Willing to Sacrifice All (14:33) A true disciple understands that everything here on earth is temporary. When we leave this world we will take nothing with us (Job 1:21) – only the relationships we have established in Christ will remain. Nothing that hinders our relationship with God or impedes our growth in Him is worth the attachment. We must be willing to surrender all for the cause of Christ.

As we can see, choosing to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ is not an easy road. It is not the path of least resistance. Nevertheless, it is the road that is most rewarding and leads to everlasting life in paradise with God. Just to be with Him is worth it all.

Here’s one final question. On what road are you traveling today? Hopefully, it’s the one that leads to True Discipleship. – Pastor George  

Become a Christian Today!

Become a follower and true disciple of Jesus today. Eternal Salvation is a free gift from God. Almighty God desires that all would come to Him and be saved. It is accomplished in three easy steps. In fact, it’s as simple as ABC.

A = Acknowledge that you have broken God’s laws (sinned). Realize that no matter how good you try to become - you can not save yourself. You need a Savior. His name is Jesus (Yeshua – His Hebrew name).

B = Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. You must believe with our whole being as well as your mind. When you truly believe in Jesus, you pattern your life after God’s example, commands and principles. You become obedient to God’s will for your life.

C = Confess Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord! You must not be ashamed to tell others that you are a dedicated follower and disciple of the Messiah. You are to proclaim Him boldly to a lost and dying world. To do otherwise, is to be completely selfish and disobedient to God’s will. If you have decided to turn your life over to God, please email us and let us know of your decision. Blessings to you and your entire family, Pastor George
PastorGeorge@DayBreakDisciples.com