Discipleship – a Key to Victorious Living

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him,
If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
John 8:31 (KJV 1900)

There is certainly more than one key to living a victorious Christian life; but becoming a disciple of Christ’s ranks at the very top. While conversion is instantaneous, it takes a lifetime to become a disciple. The dictionary definition of disciple is “a convinced adherent of a school or individual”. Becoming “convinced” of the Truth of God’s Word is a journey not a destination.  Every day situations arise that are contrary to the Word of God, and everyday you have the opportunity to stay focused on the Word or stay focused on the challenge. Every day requires a decision on your part.  Choosing to stay focused on the Truth of God’s Word advances you on the path to becoming “convinced”.

One great minister of the gospel describes a convert in relationship to an iceberg.  When first converted, only a small part of the “real” you is seen outwardly in your life. Underneath, hidden from anyone’s view, is the part of you that is “just like Jesus” – your reborn spirit. That part of you remains largely submerged until you choose to become a disciple of Christ’s.  As you begin to learn the principles of His Kingdom and walk in them, more of the “real” you becomes visible for others to see. That is what discipleship involves – following Jesus and trusting Him with the day-to-day details of your life.

Receiving Jesus as Savior gives you the miracle of a new heart. The miracle of a new life only comes when you choose to make Him the Lord of your life.

Then Jesus turned to the Jews who had claimed to believe in him. “If you stick with this, living out what I tell you, you are my disciples for sure.
John 8:31 (The Message)