Today I would like to briefly look at what it means to be a disciple. A disciple, according to the New Bible Dictionary (Third Edition), is basically the pupil of a teacher. The Jews considered themselves to ultimately be disciples of Moses (John 9:28) since his teaching formed the basis of rabbinic instruction. John the Baptist had followers referred to as disciples as well as the Pharisees (Mark 2:18). The term disciple refers to very close associates who were in a sense, apprentices. They would follow and learn from their teacher.
When Jesus was calling His first disciples, He said, “Come follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people” Mark 1:17. At once they left their nets to go and follow Jesus. This call involved personal allegiance, and giving Him exclusive loyalty. Jesus pretty much spells it out in Matthew when He said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it” Matthew 16:24-25. It was a call to put Jesus first no matter what the cost. This attitude went well beyond the normal pupil-teacher relationship and gave the word “disciple” a new sense.
According to Luke, the members of the early church were known as disciples (Acts 6:1). In our church, we call our classes, “Discipleship Classes” because we are learning what it is to be a follower of Jesus Christ as well as study, apply, and put into practice the Word of God.
Let me simply ask you this question, “What marks of discipleship do others see in you?” Let me take it a little deeper. “What marks of discipleship does God see?”
May God find that you are fully devoted to Him in your heart. May the Words of God always fill you, lead you, and influence this lost world. Keep your eyes on Jesus and don’t fall for the distractions of life the enemy throws your way.
Joy in Jesus!
Pastor Mike
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