The mark of a disciple

Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you continue in my word, you really are my disciples. (John 8:31)

Jesus’ words really spoke to me this morning.

One of the marks of a disciple is of course love (John 13:34-35).

But Jesus says here that another mark of a disciple is that we not only believe him, but continue in his word. That is, we continually open ourselves up to his word, receive it, and obey it.

Jesus said to the Jews in verse 37.

I know you are descendants of Abraham, but you are trying to kill me because my word has no place among you. (37)

The translation in the NET Bible is very interesting:

But you want to kill me, because my teaching makes no progress among you. (37, NET)

As I read that, I sensed God asking me, “Are you truly making room for my word in your life? Is my word making progress in your life?”

If we truly make a place for God’s word in our lives, it will transform us. It will change the way we think and the way we live. We will think and act like Jesus did. We will think and act like children of God.

And Jesus says that as we remain in his word, opening ourselves up to it, believing it, receiving it, and obeying it, his truth will set us free. (32)

How about you? Are you making room for God’s word in your life? Is it making progress in your life?

Father, how much is your word making progress in my life? Sometimes I wonder.

Help me to have a heart that is always receptive to you.

When I hear your word at church, when I read it at home, when people share your word with me, help me to hear it, receive it, and obey it, even when it’s hard. Even when it’s something I don’t want to hear.

Because I believe you are good. And I believe that in your word, I will find freedom and joy. In Jesus’ name, amen.