Choices of a disciple
What are the choices that will take us from being people who believe in Jesus to disciples whose lives reflect the life of the master with integrity. These are the people who will be fruitful from Jesus’ perspective.
What does the Bible say about the choices of a disciple of Jesus? -
- Disciples are faithful - John 8v31-32
- Disciples love - John 13v34-35
- Disciple's source - John 15v1-8
- Disciples follow - John 12v23-26
Disciples are faithful
John 8:31-32
Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Questions for reflection or discussion
- Why would knowing the truth come through being faithful to Jesus’ teachings?
- What would I be free of if I were to faithfully follow Jesus and experience his truth?
Thoughts to consider
We are held captive by the fears and ambitions of our inner self. If I surrender these in order to live Jesus’ way as he leads me and empowers me, then I will experience what true freedom is.
Disciples love
John 13:33-35
So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
Questions for reflection or discussion
- What does Jesus say is the principle way that one demonstrates one is a disciple?
- What practically does it mean to live a life of love?
Thoughts to consider
Selfless love is a challenge that is beyond most. When we live a life of love, it is evident that the God of love is at work in us producing that love.
Disciple's source
John 15:1-8
“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.
Questions for reflection or discussion
- Why must a branch be attached to the vine to bear fruit?
- What does Jesus promise will happen to those who do remain attached to him?
Thoughts to consider
Many spend a lot of time trying to produce the fruit of the Spirit. If we focus on remaining in Jesus through prayer, reading the Bible and taking seriously what he tells us, he will ensure that fruit is produced.
Disciples follow
John 12:23-26
Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.
Questions for reflection or discussion
- What does Jesus say is the prerequisite for fruitfulness?
- What choices might be involved in following Jesus?
- How will Jesus watch over those who serve and follow him?
Thoughts to consider
The disciple is led by Jesus into a life of fulfilment. Before they can enter that fulfilment, there are desires and activities Jesus will point out to them that have to be set aside.
Overview question for reflection or discussion
- What are the most significant attributes of a disciple that you have seen here?
- How could you develop in your discipleship?
Thoughts to consider
The Lord is concerned about our development as disciples. As we commit to following him, he will make plain to us what the next step is. Often that next step seems too much, but that is the point. It is only possible as we remain in Jesus.
