Characteristics of a Jesus Disciple

 November 21, 2024

Thursday

Ever once in a while, a disciple of Jesus must check to see if he has the characteristics of a disciple. Sure, there are lots of scriptures that people will turn to that indicate they are following Christ but there aren't really that many that point out what a disciple is. In fact, if you get these right the other things will fall in place.

John records what Jesus said about being a disciple.

1. A Jesus disciple abides in His word. That means that he is in it every day. God's word reveals the truth when the world continues to spread lies.  A Jesus disciple knows the truth and does it. He shares it with others. Therefore, others know he is a Jesus disciple.

John 8:31–32 (NASB 2020)³¹ So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly My disciples; ³² and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

2. A Jesus disciple is characterized by love for everyone. He loves those that are easy to love and those who are hard to love. Love is measured in sacrifice .(Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friends.) Thus, a Jesus disciple is more than hot air. He doesn't merely say he loves us but works to meet the needs of others. Thus, people can see the love of a Jesus disciple.

John 13:34–35 (NASB 2020)³⁴ I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another. ³⁵ By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.”

3. A Jesus disciple bears the same type of fruit that Jesus bore. The fruit of the Spirit is evident in a Jesus disciple. There is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. When all of these are present in a Jesus disciple everyone knows he is a disciple of Jesus. Thus, he will bear the fruit of others becoming Jesus disciples.

John 15:8 (NASB 2020)⁸ My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.

If you can't say that you have these three characteristics, don't despair. Just confess and commit yourself to being a Jesus disciple. Let today be a step on your journey.