The Hallmark of Discipleship

This week we are exploring what it truly means to be one of Jesus’ disciples. Take a moment to reflect and begin with a simple prayer.

Heavenly Father, I pray You continue to come after me when I stray or become complacent in my devotion to You. Please continue to remind me You long for a relationship with me. You are not distant but rather right here with me, guiding me to obey Your commands. I am Your fan and call myself a Christian, but I truly want to obey and live a life of true discipleship. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Matthew 28: 18-20 (NLT)  

18 Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

The only way to be a disciple of Christ is to follow and obey His teachings. “Christian” is simply a title. Pursuing a life of obedience is what separates true disciples from only admirers of Christ. Take a moment and ask yourself: Are you a fan of Jesus, or are you actually following Him?

Jesus’ disciples found life, love, grace, and hope in His teachings. Today’s verses were His last words to His disciples and instructions for their calling after His departure. What comes to mind when you think of making disciples? Does this apply to us today?

Jesus’ disciples were told to go out and “make disciples of all the nations” (verse 19) and “to obey all the commands” He gave them (verse 20). And this is what we are called to do too! Have you told others about Jesus? Take some time to reflect on why or why not.

Like a father who teaches his child to swim or ride a bike, God reminds us that He will be with us as we share Jesus, steadying and protecting us along the way. Sharing the gospel may feel monumental and scary, but having faith in God’s sovereignty and control makes things much easier and brings peace.

As we close out today, spend some time talking to God about discipleship. Feel free to use the prayer prompts to get you started.

Talk to God about how you feel challenged or excited by today’s passage.

Ask him to show you what changes you need to make in order to model Christlike behavior.

I pray you lean into God as you contemplate how The Great Commission plays a role in your life.