"Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed."
John 8:31 (NKJV)
• The basic meaning of the term ‘disciple' is 'learner' or 'pupil'.
- In the Greek world, the word 'disciple' normally referred to an adherent of a particular teacher or religious school.
- It was the task of the disciple to learn, study, and pass along the sayings and teachings of the master (Matthew 28:19,20).
"And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also."
2 Timothy 2:2 (NKJV)
• Therefore to qualify as a disciple of Christ, you must be an adherent of Jesus Christ and His teaching.
- An adherent is a person who supports or follows a particular set of beliefs—behaving according to a particular rule.
• Those who abide in Jesus' Word are His disciples indeed (John 8:31).
"Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son."
2 John 9 (NKJV)
- "If you love Me, keep My commandments.
- "...If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make our home with him."
John 14:15,23 (NKJV)
- It is those who know Jesus' Word and practice it that are made free.
"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
John 8:32 (NKJV)
• The term Christian and Believer are generally used for those who professed to be Christ followers; but, How many are His disciples indeed?
- Disciple are those who practice His Word—those who learn of Him and want to be like Him.
"Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments."
1 John 2:3 (NKJV) - Do you abide in His Word?
- Are you a disciple indeed?
• You will not fail in Jesus' name.
Peace!