CHARACTERISTICS OF A DISCIPLE OF JESUS CHRIST


By Rev. Michael Benson Ajayi

"Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.' 1 Timothy 4:16 NLT

   The believer's journey of faith is that which progresses from the day a person receives Jesus Christ as lord as saviour , at this stage a person is referred to as a 'spiritual babe' . The scriptures says " Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment,"1 Peter 2:2 NLT

 . To grow at this stage one needs to be feed with what the bible describes as milk . Milk is the product of mothers . It is already processed food , at this point the newborn depends on others for the  interpretation of scriptures and knowledge of the lord.   The scriptures says   "You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong." Hebrews 5:12‭-‬14 NLT. Babes believe sin has some benefits and so they struggle to preach against sin.

The process of spiritual growth  continues and is more effective when a person becomes a disciple of Jesus Christ . A healthy appetite for God's presence ( Holy Spirit) and his way of doing things (Matt6;33-34) is the foundation for healthy spiritual growth and the beginning of the journey of discipleship .
   Discipleship is characterized by supporting the testimony of ones local church by faithfully attending church meetings (Heb10:25) and by living a Christlike life (Phil 1:27) and by giving offerings and Abrahamic tithes regularly ( Lev.27:30, 1Cor 16:2, Prov. 3:9 , Gen 14:20) 
    A disciple is also characterized by making himself or herself available to serve by being equipped by a pastor ( Eph 4:11-12) he or she has a servants heart ( Phil2:3-7) Service exposes our gifts and talents (1Pet  4:10) 
   Disciples are also characterized by the commitment to protect the unity of the church by following the leaders enthusiastically ( Heb 13:17 ) and acting in love towards others ( 1Pet1:22) and refusing to backbite (Eph 4:29) 
   A disciple is an intercessor always praying for the peace ,unity and growth of the church ( 1 These 1:1-2) They share in the responsibilities of the church and invite persons to church meetings ( Luke14:23) and are very welcoming to visitors ( Rom 15:7) .
 Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and power to overcome temptation in Jesus name.
+2348035536911, +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi @gmail

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