True Discipleship

“As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew, and were not walking with Him anymore. Jesus said therefore to the twelve, "You do not want to go away also, do you?" Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life. "And we have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God."” John 6:66-69

When confronted with Jesus’ penetrating question, “You do not want to go away also, do you?” Peter makes one of the truly outstanding statements found in the Gospel accounts. Do his words stir your own heart?
“Lord, to who shall we go? You have words of eternal life.” John 6:68

Peter was a follower of Christ. His example leaves us a pattern for following Christ today. These requirements lead to true discipleship.

• Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit
The way we develop this sensitivity is to practice a lifestyle of obedience to the truths and principles of God.

• Service to others in the name of Jesus

• Sacrifice
Without sacrifice, we know little about the character of God.

• Self-denial
One of the hindrances to God’s work in our lives is the presence of pride. Much of pride stems from an attitude of self-sufficiency which leaves no room for God’s provision.

• Suffering
Sharing the suffering of others is essential to following Christ. Those who have suffered are often the most sensitive and helpful to those who are suffering.

Allow these five requirements to develop in you a true heart set on a course of following Christ.