“…keep My commandments.” – John 14:15 (NKJV)
Being a genuine disciple is not about passively receiving knowledge; it requires intentional, daily habits such as study, prayer, and accountability to transform God’s teachings into a lifestyle. The disciple, therefore, must:
- Be committed to Christ – an unwavering commitment to Jesus our Lord and Saviour. It means the disciple must prioritise obedience, faith, and love for Christ. In John 14:15, Jesus declared, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” Yes, a true disciple lives a life that truly reflects Christ.
- Be passionate in the pursuit of Christ – Just as one would pursue time and energy for his personal achievement, one should channel that same intensity to personal spiritual growth, studying the Word of God, praying, and serving.
- Be transformed and renewed – Paul writes in Romans 12:2 (NKJV), “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” There is a process of transformation in which the disciple is continually transformed and renewed as they take time to present their body as a living sacrifice to and for God. The greatest desire of a disciple should be to live a life of holy worship and devotion to God – a life of separation from the patterns of the world.
- Guard his heart – The heart is central to discipleship. It influences emotions, devotion, and life’s direction. Proverbs 4:23 encourages us to ‘Guard our hearts with all diligence.’ It means protecting our minds, emotions, and will above all else, because the course of our lives flows from it. As a disciple, one must be ruthlessly intentional about what we allow in our hearts.
- Live a life of community and fellowship – In Acts 2:42, the disciples devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer. Discipleship is not a solitary journey, but is lived out in the context of community. We must fellowship with other believers, which will provide encouragement, accountability, and growth.
- Serve and live a life of missions – A disciple is called to serve others and participate in the mission of God. Jesus modeled servanthood. He said these words: “…The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28, NKJV). This is our calling.
- Persevere and remain faithful – The walk as a disciple requires perseverance in the face of trials and opposition. Faithfulness to Christ and His teachings is essential even when it is costly.
The author Bill Hull wrote:
- Discipleship is a way of life.
- The existence of serious disciples is the most important evidence of God’s work on earth.
- Christianity without discipleship is Christianity without Christ
Discipleship, therefore, is recognised by active obedience, transformed hearts, and positive community engagement. It creates individuals who embody Christ’s love and teachings, thereby contributing to the kingdom of God.
Prayer
Father, thank You for choosing me. Please give me grace to be a genuine disciple of Christ. May I have that intimate daily union and contact with You, as you guide, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Proverbs 4:23; John 13:3-5
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 89:1-8; Romans 8:18-39; Hosea 10; Hosea 11:1-11