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NASB | John 8:31 ¶ So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, "If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 8:31 ¶ So Jesus was saying to the Jews who had believed Him, "If you abide in My word [continually obeying My teachings and living in accordance with them, then] you are truly My disciples. |
Subject: Profile of A Disciple |
Bible Note: Dear Dr. Aixen, You wrote, "You seem to have found a distinction between a saved person and a disciple." I don't find that in the Scriptures. Christ gave the profile of a disciple, and He was quite clear. Indeed, I don't believe we should point to anything less than the example of Christ Himself. If we do, people may get the impression that they have the choice to stop at some "level" and rest. Scripture gives no such option. However, I do see the sentiments you express in the modern church. Christ gave the church very clear instructions on the process we are to follow. He said to go, and we try to figure out how to get the lost to come to us. He said to teach them to obey all things He commanded, and we try to figure out how little one has to change one's life to just get into heaven. If we do not follow His process, is it any wonder we do not end up with the product (i.e., disciples who love and look like Christ)? Evangelism and discipleship cannot be separated from one another. Every one of us must be involved in being mentored and in mentoring. We should each be working as hard as we can on ourselves and one another so that we will be a the kind of church that will please Him at His coming. Work, for the night is coming when no man works! Don't be discouraged, brethren. We are under the aegis of the Father, we have been redeemed by the Son, and we are empowered by the Holy Spirit. Take each characteristics of a disciple -- as I do myself -- and compare yourself to them. Then devise a plan, in prayer, to mend those areas that are lacking. Work, for the night is coming when no man works! In Him, Doc |