Follower or True Disciple: Which one are you?

John Ch 6:47-69 ESV

47 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life. 49 Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. 50 This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.”

52 The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” 53 So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. 55 For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. 58 This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread the fathers ate, and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” 59 Jesus said these things in the synagogue, as he taught at Capernaum.

The Words of Eternal Life

60 When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” 61 But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, “Do you take offense at this? 62 Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64 But there are some of you who do not believe.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning who those were who did not believe, and who it was who would betray him.) 65 And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.”

66 After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. 67 So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” 68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, 69 and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.

Introduction

In life, we often encounter two kinds of people: followers and disciples. This distinction isn't just relevant in religious contexts, but it a part of every aspect of our lives—from our careers to our personal development, and even our spiritual journeys.

Followers are those who go along with the crowd, drawn by curiosity or the promise of immediate benefits.

They might dabble in different ideas, trends, or teachings, but their commitment is often superficial and fleeting.

Disciples, on the other hand, are those who make a deep, unwavering commitment. They don't just listen to teachings—they internalize them, live them out, and allow them to shape their entire lives.

Example

A good example of the difference between being a follower and being a disciple can be seen in the context of a fitness journey.

Followers of Fitness influencers:

They watch their workout videos

like their posts

try out a few of their routines.

However, their commitment to exercise is sporadic, and they often give up when faced with challenges or obstacles. They enjoy the idea of being fit and healthy, but they're not fully dedicated to the lifestyle changes required to achieve their goals.

This person can be likened to a follower—they're interested in the idea of fitness, but they lack the consistent dedication and commitment to truly transform their habits and achieve lasting results. (Elaborate)

Disciples of Fitness influencers:

They prioritize regular exercise, even on days when they don't feel like it.

They educate themselves on nutrition and make conscious choices to fuel their body with healthy foods.

They push through setbacks and plateaus, knowing that progress takes time and effort.

This person embodies the spirit of a disciple—they have made a conscious decision to embrace the principles of fitness, and they are willing to make sacrifices and put in the work necessary to achieve their health and wellness goals.

Follower (Biblical Definition):

In a biblical context, a "follower" of Jesus refers to someone who shows interest in His teachings and follows Him, often by physically accompanying Him and listening to His words. However, this term can have varying degrees of commitment and understanding.

Interest in Jesus' Teachings:

Surface-Level Commitment:

Curiosity and Exploration:

Interest in Jesus' Teachings:

Followers are those who are drawn to Jesus' message and miracles. They seek to learn from Him and often accompany Him to hear His teachings.

Surface-Level Commitment

Some followers exhibit a superficial level of commitment. They may be attracted by the miracles, healings, or the promise of material or immediate benefits rather than a deep spiritual transformation.Example: In John 6:26, Jesus points out that some people followed Him because they ate the loaves and were filled, highlighting their focus on physical needs rather than spiritual truths.

Curiosity and Exploration:

Followers might be curious about Jesus and His claims but are not necessarily ready to make a full commitment. They might be exploring His teachings to see if they resonate with their beliefs and lifestyle.

Disciple (Biblical Definition):

In a biblical context, a "disciple" is someone who is a devoted follower and learner of Jesus Christ. The term comes from the Latin word "discipulus," meaning "student" or "learner," and it is used in the New Testament to describe those who commit themselves to following Jesus, learning from His teachings, and striving to live according to His example.

Cultural Context

Jewish Context: Jesus was speaking primarily to a Jewish audience, who would have been familiar with the religious practices, traditions, and scriptures of Judaism. His teachings would have been understood within the framework of Jewish beliefs and expectations regarding the Messiah and eternal life.

Galilean Setting: Galilee was a region with a diverse population, including Jews, Gentiles, and Samaritans. It was known for its fishing industry and agricultural pursuits, as well as being a crossroads for trade and travel.

Feeding of the Five Thousand: The events leading up to Jesus' teachings in John 6 include the miraculous feeding of the five thousand, where Jesus multiplied a small amount of food to feed a large crowd. This miracle would have been fresh in the minds of those present and would have set the stage for Jesus' subsequent discourse on the Bread of Life.

Messiah Expectations: Many Jews in Jesus' time were eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Messiah, who they believed would deliver them from Roman oppression and establish God's kingdom on earth.

Point 1: The Nature of True Belief – John 6:47-51

(Read Verse)

Verse: "Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life..." (John 6:47-51 ESV)

Belief as Essential: Jesus declares that true belief in Him is the foundation of eternal life. This belief is not superficial but involves recognizing Him as the source of spiritual sustenance.

Temporary vs. Eternal Nourishment: The manna in the wilderness provided temporary relief, but Jesus offers eternal sustenance. (Break down in “in the dessert your forefathers ate manna…)

Reflection: Are you seeking Jesus for temporary benefits, or do you truly believe in Him as your eternal source of life?

Transitional Sentence:Understanding the nature of true belief is the first step, but to move from being a follower to a disciple, we must also embrace the deeper and often challenging aspects of Jesus' teachings. This brings us to our second point:

Point 2: The Challenge of Embracing Jesus’ Sacrifice – John 6:53

Verse: "Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you..." (John 6:53 ESV)

Explained: Jesus uses physical terms to convey spiritual truths. Consuming His flesh and blood signifies an intimate, life-giving relationship with Him, accepting His sacrifice, and being nourished spiritually by His presence and teachings.

This declaration is unusual and absurd to them!

Eating Flesh and drinking blood is forbidden: Genesis 9:4 “But you shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood.”

Blood is for the atoning of sins: Leviticus 17:11 “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.”

Passover: Jews would eat the flesh of the sacrificial lamb. This act commemorated their deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12). Jesus identifies Himself as the Lamb of God, whose sacrifice delivers humanity from sin and death (John 1:29).

This declaration from Jesus completely messes up their theology!

Metaphor: Eating and drinking is necessary for physical nourishment and to live. Jesus' flesh and blood sustain our spiritual lives. Believing in Him and internalizing His teachings is essential for our spiritual well-being and eternal life. (Eat my Flesh)

Covering and Indwelling: Not only does Jesus' blood cover our sins, providing forgiveness and cleansing, but it also dwells within us, symbolizing a deep, personal, and transformative relationship with Him. (Drink my blood)

Point 3: Should I stay or should I go? – John 6:60-61, 66-67

Verse:

60 When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” 61 But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, “Do you take offense at this?

66 After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. 67 So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?”

Many followers found Jesus' teachings difficult and chose to leave, revealing their superficial commitment.

Spiritual reality sinks in:

68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, 69 and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.

“Know” (Ginosko) - To understand, perceive, learn

Reflection: When faced with difficult teachings or challenges, do you turn away, or do you stay committed to Jesus, recognizing that He alone has the words of eternal life?

Closing

It is easy to talk, easy to have fine thoughts; but none of that means being a disciple. Being a disciple is to be something that is an infinite satisfaction to Jesus every minute, whether in secret or in public.

Oswald Chambers (Lecturer and Missionary)

Now, think with me about those who are demi-disciples—that is, part disciples, half disciples. These are men and women who bring their lives partially under the control of Christ, but they leave whole other areas outside His control. Long ago I came to the conclusion that if Jesus Christ is not controlling all of me, the chances are very good that He is not controlling any of me.

Faith Beyond Reason, 59.

A. W. Tozer