A DISCIPLE IS

 

A DISCIPLE IS

John 8:31-32 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, "You are truly my disciples if you keep obeying my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." NLT

It's one thing to claim to be a disciple of the Lord, but it's another thing to actually be one. The litmus test of discipleship is obedience. If a person is not living by God's Word and following His commands, then one is not a true disciple.

A disciple is knowledgeable about the Word of God. He consistently and regularly reads and studies it. He waits before the Lord so that he can understand what he reads. He makes it a point to find ways in which he can apply to life that which the Lord helps him to understand.

A disciple lives a godly life. He does not excuse his sins, but seeks the Lord's forgiveness whenever he needs it. He does not try to alter the Word to suit himself. He does not compromise it in any way. He does not argue with God over what it says. He simply submits himself to the Word's authority over his life.

A disciple knows true freedom in his soul because he knows the life that obedience to the Lord brings. He lives in the grace of Christ and seeks to honor Him in all he does. He does not live in bondage to sin. Instead, he lives a life truly blessed by the Lord. He lives knowing that when life is over on earth he will live eternally with the Lord. He has peace and joy and does not fear what tomorrow may bring. He confidently faces whatever life brings him because he knows the Lord is with him and will help him live in victory.

A true disciple does not give up in his faith walk. He does not stop obeying the Lord. He lives life always seeking to please the Lord.