What Bible Verses Talk About How to Be a Disciple?
Jesus called his disciples to travel with him, support him and share his mission of spreading the good news of God’s love and grace. As Christians, it’s vitally important to understand the Bible’s definitions of a disciple in order to be the best disciples we can be. So, what do the Bible verses say about how to be a disciple?
Matthew 16:24 encourages us to deny ourselves. Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” This verse implies that we need to look past our own needs, wants, and desires and be willing to give up anything to become closer to our Lord and to serve him. It is only through denying ourselves that we can become true disciples.
John 15:5 tells us to abide in him. This verse states “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” Abiding means to remain in communion with our Lord, letting him help us through difficult times and trusting in him when life is going well. This is the hallmark of a true disciple.
Scripture further encourages us to be proactive in our faith. Philippians 4:13 says “I can do all things through him who strengthens me,” reminding us that our strength and courage come from God. Through his power, we are urged to take part in his mission and share his message with others.
John 13:35 is another important reminder. In this verse, Jesus said “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Having love and compassion for all and showing that love to those around us is the most important way to show that we are followers of Jesus. No matter what our religious background or lifestyle may be, we are all called to love our neighbors.
Finally, James 1:22 reminds us to be doers of the word. This verse reads “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” We cannot simply hear God’s word—we must show others that we are serious about it by practicing what we hear. We should strive to be preachers of the word and live our lives according to what it says.
Be Merciful
To truly become a disciple of Jesus, we must follow his example and be merciful and forgiving. Matthew 5:7 says “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” We all make mistakes and doing our best to forgive and accept those around us will make us better disciples of Jesus.
Be Open Minded and Confident
One of the greatest things that comes with being a follower of Jesus is having the courage to put your faith in Him. We must be willing to speak our mind and defend our beliefs, while also being open-minded and understanding of other people’s perspectives. Romans 10:11-12 says “Whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.” Our confidence in God should never waver.
Be Humble and Thankful
The Bible is full of verses that encourage us to be humble and give thanks to God for all of his blessings. In 1 Peter 5:6 we read “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.” We must strive to remain humble and give thanks for all of God’s gifts, both large and small.
Be Generous and Selfless
The Bible often instructs us to use our resources to help others in need. In Mark 12:31 we find, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Caring for one another and using what we have to give back to the world in some way is a fundamental part of the Christian faith. Being generous and selfless is a sign of true discipleship.
A husband of one wife, father of two beautiful girls, laborer of Lord, Jesus Christ, and a servant to God’s His saints. I hope to encourage you by God’s grace. Thank you for stopping by.
