Lorne Sanny, former president of The Navigators, talked about three characteristics of those who are true followers of Christ. He called them the marks of a disciple. Here is a summary of his thoughts:
Identified with Christ
The first mark of a disciple is that they are someone who is identified with the person of Jesus Christ—someone who will openly admit that he belongs to Christ. On one occasion Jesus asked the disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ” (Mark 8:29). A disciple takes the opportunity to be identified with Jesus Christ.
Obedient to the Word
A disciple is not only a believer who is identified with the person of Christ, they are also obedient to the Word of Christ— the Bible. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations . . . teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you (Matthew 28:19,20). A disciple does more than attend church. He does more than go to Sunday School or a small group. They find out what the Bible says and do it.
Fruitful for Christ
So a disciple is one who is openly identified with the person of Christ. Second, obedient to the Word of Christ. And third, they bear fruit in the work of Christ. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples (John 15:8). Now it seems to me that there are two kinds of fruit here. First is the fruit of character, the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22,23). And second, there’s fruit by way of influencing the lives of others for Christ.
So, are you a disciple? Do you bear the marks?
Are you willing to be openly identified with the person of Jesus Christ?
Are you seeking to be obedient to the Word of Christ in your everyday life?
Are you bearing fruit in the work of Christ—by way of Christlike character and influencing the lives of others?
See you Sunday ...
No comments:
Post a Comment