Understanding Christian Discipleship (Part One)

From the desk of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D. Christian discipleship is the process of learning from and following Jesus Christ, and becoming more like Him in one’s actions and attitudes. It’s a journey of spiritual maturity and growth that often takes place in a relationship with a mentor. What does the apostle John have to say about this extremely important topic? We read, (3) “By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. (4) The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; (5) but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: (6) the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked” (1 John 2:3-6). In verse 3, what kind of knowing or knowledge is John talking about? It’s not the saving knowledge of God and His Son Jesus! Why is that? Because according to Jesus, it’s true that every believer knows God and Jesus at a basic level. They know God as “the only true God” and they know Jesus as being sent by God (see John 17:3). In our passage, the knowledge to which John refers is the experiential knowing of God and His Son. How do we know this to be the case? We’ll continue in Part Two. Be encouraged!