Are You a Disciple of Jesus?

Introduction

A disciple of Jesus is one who has left all behind for the sake of doing that which Jesus has called them to do. Through careful examination we can see that many believe that being a Christian changes nothing about the direction or motivation of their lives. If we are honest many would say, “So long as I am going to church, reading my Bible, avoid sinning too much, and praying, God is basically happy with my life.”

The biblical record of Jesus’ followers shows a different story than what many believe to be an acceptable Christianity. When Jesus called His first disciples, there were three important details to that call that shows us what it looks like to become a follower of Christ.

First, Jesus Initiates the Call.

Second, Jesus Issues the Charge.

Third, The Disciple Does as Jesus Says

Jesus Initiates the Call

Peter and Andrew had come into contact with Jesus before, and they even joined Him in some of His earlier ministry. Evidently, they had returned at some point to their fishing business. This indicates that, though they were familiar with Jesus’ ministry, they had not yet become true disciples of His.

Many followed Jesus for the amazing works that He performed, but those who became His true disciples were sought out by Jesus.

The crowds that attached themselves to Jesus because of the were driven away when Jesus revealed what it meant to truly follow him.

Foxes have holes

Unless a man eat my flesh and drink my blood

Take up you cross

Hate father and mother

The ministry of Jesus was bigger than the miracles He performed. Jesus comes to the people where they are and brings His message to bare on the lives of His followers.

Jesus Gives the Command

As Jesus approaches those whom He calls, He does not allow them to casually follow Him at their own discretion.

Followers of Jesus are commanded to leave their current direction of life and follow after the direction of Jesus.

Casual Christianity is not an option by New Testament standards. Jesus says that many will say that they did great things for Jesus, and He will say “depart from me you workers of iniquity for I never knew you”.

Let’s remember who it is that is giving the command to follow Him. Jesus the promised savior, the seed of David, the seed of Abraham, the Son of God who is fully divine and fully human. He is the King of kings, the wonderful counselor, sovereign of all of creation.

Jesus need not ask for your allegiance; He has the right to require it.

True Disciples Obey Jesus’ Command

Those who are true disciples of Jesus will be obedient to the commands of Christ.

Disciples of Jesus will forsake all for His cause and immediately follow whatever direction Jesus leads. There was no hesitation in those who obey Jesus.