Walking after Christ

Christians are Christ’s disciples

1) The Meaning of Disciple

A disciple literally means ‘a learner.’ As Christians we learn from Jesus Christ. Those we have learned from leave the greatest impact on our lives. Note the three kinds of disciples in the following verse. Underline them.

And John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting; and they came and said to Him, “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?” (Mark 2:18)

A Christian by definition should only learn from Christ. The Lord has appointed pastors and teachers to help us learn more. But be careful. Not everyone who claims to be a pastor or Christian teacher actually loves the Lord.

Soon after Christ left the earth, the word disciple faded from common usage. The word ‘Christian’ and other terms like ‘brother’ took its place. Acts 11:26 says, “The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” The term ‘Christian’ means a follower or adherent of Christ Jesus, literally ‘little Christ.’

2) The Success of Christ’s Disciple

"Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life”" (John 14:6). The growth of your Christian life depends upon how much you cleanse yourself of old thoughts which run counter to Christ’s teaching and adopt what He says. Do we have to listen to everything that Jesus says? If He really is from God (and He is), it would be foolish to do anything other than what He commands. Notice in the following verses how Jesus demands our full allegiance.

As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew, and were not walking with Him anymore. Jesus said therefore to the twelve, “You do not want to go away also, do you?” Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life. And we have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God. (John 6:66-69)

Application: Confirm your allegiance to Jesus Christ your Teacher by both rejecting other teachings and influential teachers and affirming your loyalty to Christ. Mention at least one of your old admired teachers, teachings, religions, philosophies, books, songs, stars, historic or present important figures.

Write down two ‘old’ things that affected your life. Cross them out as a symbolic gesture that you will no longer allow those things to influence your life.

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