Then Jesus turned to the Jews who had claimed to believe in him. “If you stick with this, living out what I tell you, you are my disciples for sure. Then you will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you.” –John 8:31-32 MSG
The term “disciple” in the New Testament means more than just student or learner. A disciple is a follower, someone who adheres to the teachings of another.Jesus was very clear about the cost of following Him. Discipleship requires a totally committed life, as He explains in Matthew 16:24 (NIV), “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”The first use of the term “Christian” in the Bible was in the book of Acts where it says the disciples were called Christians (Acts 11:26). A Christian is someone who has totally committed his or her life to following Jesus and possesses a new life through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. As a disciple, this person should also be actively involved in helping others find this new relationship with Christ.Are you a disciple of Jesus? Are you using your time and talents to help others become believers as well? If not, why not? Take that first step today and reach out to those in your life who might need to hear about Jesus’ love for them!
Ask God to infuse you with inner strength.
Ask God to help you move from a place of fear to a place of confident hope.