Being Christian is no cake walk. True disciples of Jesus Christ are saved by faith and justified by works. Judged according to what we say, what we do and what we endure, disciples need a solid foundation to survive the ongoing flood brought on by the world.
The recipe for a solid foundation can be found in the word of God. More specifically, the bible teaches specific areas we are to rely on for discipleship.
First, true disciples of Jesus Christ are called to serve. “12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” (John 13:12-17)
Are you a servant immersed within God’s church? The bible teaches that humble servants of Jesus Christ are justified by their works performed in His name. Without works, faith is useless.
True disciples are also called to rid themselves of sin. “29 If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.” (Matthew 5:29-30)
By nature we are all born sinners. By faith true disciples of the Lord recognize sin and take steps toward eliminating sin. Tolerance and acceptance are dangerous concepts associated with weak or dead faith that lead to grave punishment.
Storing their treasure in Heaven rather than on earth, true disciples embrace the rewards that come along with service in the name of Christ. Immeasurable harvest awaits those who serve and give without restraint just like Christ gave His life for us. “19 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
One of the most rewarding expectation bestowed upon true disciples involves walking the narrow path that leads to eternal life. Surrounded by worldly distractions, followers of Jesus Christ are led by the holy spirit. “13 Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)
True disciples of Jesus Christ exalt nothing over God. By putting God first in our lives, faithful servants keep focusing on the Lord rather than the things of the earth. “37 Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38 and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:37-39)
Relying on God for comfort, true disciples know they can count on the Lord for peace of mind that comes through faith. Using prayer, scripture and worship, disciples find comfort where it flows with eternal abundance. “28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
One of the most challenging commands taught by the bible involves forgiveness. True disciples of Jesus Christ are called to forgive all those who do us wrong in spite of their faith or lack thereof. Through forgiveness, disciples of Jesus Christ release themselves of the bitterness and hatred associated with the inability to forgive. “21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 11:21-22)
True disciples of Jesus Christ must also spread the good news by sharing the gospel with all those who will listen. “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.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
Finally, true disciples of Jesus Christ are called to be on guard for Christ’ return. “32 No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. 34 It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. 35 “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. 36 If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. 37What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!‘” (Mark 13:32-37)
True discipleship cannot be hidden, it cannot be faked or even imitated. True disciples of Jesus Christ are obvious, humble servants of the Lord ready to be judged according to the words they speak, their actions and the trials they endure.
Are you a true disciple of Jesus Christ our Lord? For your sake I hope so. Otherwise, you are headed to hell. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your unconditional love
For your forgiveness and your strength,
We thank you for looking after us, our families and friends
And for answering the prayers of those in need.
Lord we pray you will inspire us to spend more time with you
Through prayer and through your Word the bible,
Surrounding ourselves with your wisdom
And believers in your son Jesus Christ.
God please put us to work for you in the days ahead
And fill our hearts with love for one and all,
Lead us to those in need
So we can serve you through them.
Father we pray you will continue to shine your light bright
Upon us your true faithful disciples,
And that you will inspire those who are not already
Part of your everlasting family.
God we love you and thank you for all that surrounds us!
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
