A disciple is someone who adheres to the teaching of another. A disciple is a follower and a learner, but more than that, a disciple takes up the habits and lifestyle of another.
The question is not whether you are a Christian but are you a disciple, which means a student or follower of Christ?
The disciples evolved from adherents to admirers, to advocates, to apostles.
Why do I want to renew my commitment to follow Jesus closely?
"And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels” (Mark 8:35-38).
Following Jesus saves your life.
Following Jesus spares you the shame of your sinful life.
- Teacher: JANICE VOGELZANG