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Would you like to read an interesting statistic? Of course you would, so here it is: In the New Testament, the word Christian is used a grand total of three times. That’s right. Three times. However, the word Disciple (or Apprentice) is used 269 times. Yes, you read that correctly – 269 times. That’s a lot.
In Early Christianity, those who professed faith in Christ weren’t signing up for a “Get out of hell free” card, nor were they committing to a cultural religion. They didn’t see Christianity as a fad or part of the in crowd. Not at all. Instead, those who professed faith in Jesus were committing to being a Disciple or an Apprentice of Jesus. They were committing to following His ways, His teachings, His lifestyle, and an overall way of living was, in a word, different.
Sadly, many Christians today have been taught that to follow Jesus is to not do certain things. As long as you’re not watching the wrong movies, or listening to the wrong music, or looking at the wrong things on your computer, you’re OK. But following Jesus is so much more. It may include watching fewer good movies or listening to less good music in order to be part of something even greater. It is committing to being a Disciple. It’s committing to a way of living that is…different.
READING & PRAYERS:
LUKE 9:23-24 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Culturally speaking, what may be some differences between being a Christian and being a Disciple or an Apprentice of Jesus? Which category would you place yourself in, and why?
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess that I often see myself more as a Christian than as a Disciple. Continue to reveal to me that You’re not looking for people to adhere to a cultural form of religion, but are instead seeking those who are willing to follow You, Your teachings, Your lifestyle, and Your ways. Continue to reveal to me the things I can leave behind in order to more closely follow You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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