June 22
2 Kings 3:1-4:17 | PS 140:1-13 | Prov 17:22 | Acts 14:8-28
Are you a disciple of Jesus Christ? This question requires some thought. Realize that a disciple, by definition, is one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another. So, in the case of Jesus Christ, this would mean that you assist in spreading the good news of salvation that can only occur in a genuine relationship with Him. The question remains, can one call themselves a Christian without being a disciple. It’s great if you like Christian music, like listening to messages, like wearing Christian clothes and hats, like using Christian jargon, and even like going to church. But Jesus didn’t ask us to give mental ascent to what He did. He died for us. This must move us into action for Him. So many Christians tell me that they don’t talk much about it because it might make others uncomfortable. They state others will recognize their Christianity by their behavior. Sorry, there are many atheists and people who care less for Jesus who are very “nice” and support good causes. Jesus said in Matthew 16:24, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”
To clarify this, consider the description used in Acts 14:21-22, 28, “And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”… So they stayed there a long time with the disciples”. If you want more clarity, consider Jesus’ words in His Great Commission (not suggestion) in Matthew 28:19-20, “ Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you;”.
Being a Christian requires us to respond to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, examining our thoughts, words, and actions comparing them with God’s Word, which of course requires us to be in His Word daily: studying it, praying over it, obeying it. This means we must be set apart from the world. We must put Jesus first, obey Him, and be actively making other disciples. Fruit will emanate from us as we abide in Him. We all must seriously examine ourselves, and answer: Are we a Christian disciple or not.
Messages from Pastor Lloyd Pulley: