Is there a distinction between being a Christian and a Disciple of Jesus Christ?

1. Christian: A Follower by Name

The term “Christian” originally meant “little Christ” and was first used in Antioch (Acts 11:26) to describe those who followed Jesus. Today, it broadly refers to anyone who identifies with the Christian faith, whether by belief, culture, or association.

However, not everyone who calls themselves a Christian necessarily lives as a disciple. Some may believe in Jesus but not actively follow His teachings in their daily lives.

2. Disciple: A Devoted Follower

A disciple (Greek: mathētēs) means “learner” or “follower”—someone who is committed to learning from, obeying, and imitating Jesus in every aspect of life.

Jesus gave clear conditions for discipleship:

• Deny self and take up the cross (Luke 9:23).

• Love God above all and love others (Matthew 22:37-39).

• Obey His commands (John 14:15).

• Make more disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

Key Differences

Christian
Believes in Jesus
Can be cultural or nominal
May not live by biblical teachings
Identifies as part of Christianity

Disciple
Follows Jesus actively
Committed to spiritual growth
Strives to obey God’s Word
Lives a transformed life daily

Conclusion

While all true disciples of Jesus are Christians, not all who call themselves Christians are truly disciples. Jesus calls His followers not just to believe, but to follow, obey, and grow in faith.

 

Growing as a disciple of Jesus Christ is a lifelong journey of deepening your relationship with Him and living according to His teachings. Here’s a practical guide to help you grow in discipleship:

1. Develop a Strong Relationship with God

A. Daily Prayer:

• Speak with God throughout your day, not just in the morning or before bed.

• Pray with sincerity—Jesus said, “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.” (Matthew 6:6)

B. Read and Study the Bible:

• The Bible is God’s Word and the foundation of discipleship (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

• Start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) to learn directly from Jesus.

• Meditate on Scripture (Psalm 1:2) and apply it to daily life.

2. Obey Jesus’ Teachings

A. Live Out the Great Commandments:

• “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.” (Matthew 22:37)

• “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)

B. Deny Yourself and Take Up Your Cross

• Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

• This means surrendering personal desires for God’s will and trusting Him.

3. Be Transformed by the Holy Spirit

• The Holy Spirit guides and empowers believers (John 16:13).

• Ask God daily for the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23): love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

4. Get Involved in Christian Community

• Join a Bible-believing church for fellowship and accountability (Hebrews 10:25).

• Find a mentor—someone mature in faith who can disciple you (Titus 2:1-8).

• Be active in serving—help the poor, encourage others, and use your gifts for God’s kingdom (1 Peter 4:10).

5. Make Disciples

• Jesus commanded, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)

• Share your faith with others—through words and actions.

• Disciple someone by helping them grow in their faith just as others help you.

6. Trust God in Trials and Persevere

• Discipleship is not always easy. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

• Keep trusting Him, even in difficult times (James 1:2-4).

Here is a simple plan for your journey:

1. Bible Reading Plan for Discipleship

Start with a structured plan to build a strong foundation:

30-Day Plan on Discipleship

📖 Week 1: Knowing Jesus

• Day 1: John 1:1-18 (Jesus, the Word made flesh)

• Day 2: Luke 9:23-27 (Denying yourself to follow Christ)

• Day 3: Matthew 11:28-30 (Jesus gives rest)

• Day 4: John 15:1-11 (Abiding in Christ)

• Day 5: Philippians 2:1-11 (The humility of Christ)

• Day 6: John 3:1-21 (Being born again)

• Day 7: Reflection & Prayer

📖 Week 2: Developing Spiritual Disciplines

• Day 8: Matthew 6:5-15 (The Lord’s Prayer)

• Day 9: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (The power of Scripture)

• Day 10: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (Praying without ceasing)

• Day 11: Romans 12:1-2 (Renewing the mind)

• Day 12: Psalm 1:1-6 (Delighting in God’s Word)

• Day 13: James 1:22-25 (Being doers of the Word)

• Day 14: Reflection & Prayer

📖 Week 3: Obedience & Growth

• Day 15: Galatians 5:16-26 (Walking in the Spirit)

• Day 16: Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes)

• Day 17: Colossians 3:12-17 (Putting on the new self)

• Day 18: Ephesians 6:10-20 (The armor of God)

• Day 19: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (The greatest commandment: Love)

• Day 20: James 2:14-26 (Faith and works)

• Day 21: Reflection & Prayer

📖 Week 4: Making Disciples & Endurance

• Day 22: Matthew 28:16-20 (The Great Commission)

• Day 23: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (Ambassadors for Christ)

• Day 24: Acts 1:8 (Being witnesses)

• Day 25: Romans 8:18-39 (Nothing can separate us from God’s love)

• Day 26: Hebrews 12:1-3 (Running the race with perseverance)

• Day 27: 1 Peter 3:13-17 (Defending your faith)

• Day 28: John 16:33 (Take heart, Jesus has overcome the world)

• Day 29: Psalm 23 (Trusting in God’s guidance)

• Day 30: Reflection & Next Steps

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a journal to write reflections, key lessons, and prayers as you read.

2. Books on Discipleship

📚 Great books to help you grow:

1. The Cost of Discipleship – Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Deep dive into following Jesus wholeheartedly)

2. Mere Christianity – C.S. Lewis (Strong foundation for faith and discipleship)

3. Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream – David Platt (Challenges cultural Christianity)

4. Multiply – Francis Chan (How to make disciples and grow spiritually)

5. Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster (Spiritual disciplines to grow closer to God)

3. Practical Ways to Grow in Discipleship

✅ Join a Bible Study Group – Being part of a small group helps with accountability.
✅ Serve in Ministry – Whether in your church, community, or mission work.
✅ Find a Mentor & Be a Mentor – Learn from mature believers and help others grow.
✅ Share Your Faith – Evangelism is part of discipleship (Matthew 28:19).
✅ Memorize Scripture – Helps in daily struggles and spiritual growth (Psalm 119:11).

4. What’s Next?

Would you like help with:

• Finding a church or mentor? Get more involved with brothers at MOF or your local men’s Bible study

• Recommendations for discipleship podcasts or devotionals? (Check out the Legacydads Podcast :))

• A prayer plan to go along with your Bible study?

Blessings,

Dante

Does The World Need Jesus?

Does the World need Jesus?

Yes — from a Christian perspective, the world absolutely needs Jesus.

Here’s why, based on biblical teachings:

🌍 1. Humanity’s Deep Need

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23

According to Scripture, every person is in need of forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing — things that Jesus uniquely provides. Humanity is spiritually broken, and no amount of self-effort, moral living, or worldly achievement can fix that.

✝️ 2. Jesus Is the Only Way

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6

This claim by Jesus is radical — He doesn’t say He shows the way; He is the way. For Christians, this makes Jesus essential, not optional. He bridges the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.

💔 3. A World in Crisis

The world is filled with war, division, addiction, injustice, and hopelessness. These aren’t just political or economic problems — they are spiritual ones. Jesus brings peace, purpose, and true transformation from the inside out.

🤍 4. Love Like No Other

“God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8

The cross is the ultimate display of love. No one else has laid down their life to redeem all of humanity. Jesus offers not just a better life, but eternal life — and that’s a hope the world desperately needs.

🙌 5. A Kingdom That Will Never Fall

Every earthly kingdom rises and falls. Jesus offers a Kingdom that cannot be shaken — one of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.

So… does the world need Jesus?

Yes. Because without Him, we are lost. But with Him, there is hope — for individuals, families, nations, and the world.

So, How Does Jesus Change Lives Today?

🙋‍♂️ How Jesus Changes Lives Today

1. He Heals the Brokenhearted

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3

People are walking around carrying invisible wounds — from abuse, rejection, trauma, and failure. Jesus meets people right where they are and brings deep healing, peace, and restoration that nothing else can.

2. He Sets People Free

“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” – John 8:36

From addiction to anxiety, shame to fear, Jesus offers freedom. Not just temporary relief — true liberation. His Spirit empowers people to walk in victory and leave chains behind.

3. He Gives Identity and Purpose

“You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood… God’s special possession…” – 1 Peter 2:9

In a world of confusion, Jesus grounds our identity — not in status, race, politics, or performance, but in being sons and daughters of God.

4. He Offers Eternal Life

“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life…” – John 3:36

Jesus doesn’t just improve our current life — He gives a new one, forever. That hope is what gives meaning, even in suffering.

📣 How to Share Jesus in a Hurting World

👂 Listen First

Sometimes the most Christ-like thing you can do is listen. Jesus often met needs before preaching — healing the sick, feeding the hungry, weeping with the grieving.

❤️ Live Like Him

Let your life preach louder than your words. People are drawn to love, peace, and grace in action.

💬 Speak Boldly but Gently

“Always be prepared to give an answer… with gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:15

You don’t have to have all the answers — just a real story of what Jesus has done in your life.  Be honest, be vulnerable (where appropriate) and be transparent.  Let your words match your heart and match your actions - a mindset focused on Jesus.  Set your heart on things above, set your minds on things above (Colossians 3 gives us the right mind, heart, soul and spirit focus on doing these things; Romans 12 gives us practical application to implement these as well).   Ask God to reveal things in us that we need to surrender (or repent).  As Jesus to forgive you of these things and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in ways that honor God in all that we do.

Blessings,

Dante