Are We Devoted to Christ

Where do we stand as Christians and followers of the one true God?

On Sunday morning we watched a video (sermon starter) that asked the question, “Is it possible to be a Christian without being a disciple of Jesus? I guess that depends on the term “Christian” and “disciple of Jesus.”

And what does it look like to be a disciple of Jesus? Well, this is Jesus’ definition of a disciple…

“Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.’” Mark 8:34-35 NIV

But what about the term Christian? In scripture we see that followers of Jesus (disciples) were first called “Christians” at Antioch.

“The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” Acts 11:26b NIV

In the early church, the words would have been synonymous. But that isn’t necessarily what it means to be a Christian today.

The definition of a Christian today is that a Christian can be anyone who professes Christianity. But isn’t this dangerous? You can profess something yet not be devoted to it. The challenge for us, if we agree with this definition, would be to look at scripture and find a place where following Jesus is expected to be seen in thought or word but not action.

Whether we look at the Old Testament or the New Testament, we see that discipleship requires us to surrender ourselves and follow Him. I already posted the scripture from Gospel of Mark, but here is one from the Old Testament.

“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” Deut 4:9 NIV

We and our churches have focused on reaching people and sharing the Good New of Jesus Christ with those around us, but I wonder how many have shared about the expectations of becoming a disciple of Jesus. Are we preaching and teaching the full Gospel?

I think we need to look beyond what it means to be a Christian, and start thinking about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus, for that is what He has called us to be (and to make).

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matt 28:19-20 NIV

Lord, help me to understand what it means to be a disciple, and then help me to become one (or become a better one). And may my devotion to You lead others to desire to become disciples as well. In Jesus’ name…