The Bible is full of great truths the Christian needs to remember. We have focused on three of those truths: “If you abide in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine” (Jesus, John 8:31). “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (Jesus – John 13:35). “By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples” (Jesus – John 15:8).
A fruit tree is classified by the fruit it produces. An apple tree produces apples. An orange tree produces oranges. That same principle is used concerning people. Reference false teachers, Jesus said, “You will know them by their fruits” (Mt. 7:16). Then He illustrates that with these words: “Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes, nor figs from thistles, are they? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit; but the bad tree bears bad fruit….So then you will know them by their fruits” (Mt. 7:16-20).
In our study we have also emphasized that a disciple is a Christian and a Christian is a disciple. They are one and the same. A disciple is a follower of Jesus and so is a Christian. Note again the requirements of discipleship: 1. A disciple abides in the Word. 2. A disciple loves one another. 3. A disciple bears much fruit. The first one we get. It is understandable, but often neglected in practice. The second and third ones give us a lot of trouble. It is easy to love someone who is just like me. But it is a different story to love one who is different. It has been said of the church family, “We are a fellowship of differents.” The Apostle Paul said, “…the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers , all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it” (I Cor. 12:25, 26). If God loves the unlovely, and He does, what does He expect of me? Then comes the fruit bearing expectation. “You don’t expect me to talk to another person about their soul, do you?” “I cannot do that. I do not know enough Bible to do that, besides, that is the preacher’s job.” And the excuses go on.
Our world needs God’s message of love and hope. It needs to be seen in the life we live and the words we speak. Let’s remember what it means to be a disciple, a Christian who truly follows Jesus. Let’s make a difference where we live. — Les Ferguson Sr., S. Huntington Church of Christ
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