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The Distinguishing Mark of Christ’s Disciple
Introduction
The last words of a person about to die carry a lot of weight. Jesus, in preparing His disciples for His departure, conveyed crucial instructions for them to continue His mission. He told them:
“My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: Where I am going, you cannot come.” (John 13:33 NIV)
As Jesus' time on earth was drawing to a close, He prepared His disciples for the fear and uncertainty they would soon face. They were to spread the gospel in a hostile world. But how would they win the world for Christ? Jesus provided the distinguishing mark that would set them apart:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35)
Love becomes the hallmark of a disciple of Christ. But what exactly is a disciple?
Who is a Disciple?
It is significant that Jesus did not command His followers to make believers or converts of all nations. Instead, His command was clear:
“And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:18-19)
A disciple is not merely someone who attends church or participates in rituals. A disciple is someone who has accepted Jesus, has been born again, follows Jesus, and is committed to His mission:
“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Matthew 16:24)
A disciple must obey Jesus’ commands, including the command to love one another. Jesus said:
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35).
It is not Bible knowledge, fasting, or public stands that define discipleship, but love.
The Unique Love of Jesus
The word “love” is often overused and misused. However, Jesus' love, as depicted in the Scriptures, is unique and distinct from the world's understanding. This love has several characteristics:
1. It is Sacrificial
In our culture, love is often about receiving benefits. However, Christian love is about giving and serving others selflessly. Jesus’ love is sacrificial:
“Love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:10).
To love sacrificially:
2. It is Demonstrated Through Service
Actions speak louder than words. Jesus demonstrated His love through service, such as washing His disciples' feet:
“Little children, let us not love in word or speech, but in action and in truth” (1 John 3:18).
If our Lord, God in flesh, is willing to serve, we His disciples must also be servants, willing to serve in any way that glorifies God.
3. It is a Forgiving Love
Jesus exemplified forgiving love, even as He was nailed to the cross. A disciple of Christ must practice forgiveness as a lifestyle:
“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
Living a life of unforgiveness is like driving with the parking brake on—it slows you down. Forgiveness releases you and creates freedom. Forgiving those who have wronged you is key to personal peace.
Conclusion
We live in a world that is selfish and competitive. However, as disciples of Christ, we are called to be different. We are here as ambassadors for Christ, armed with the powerful weapon of love. Love others as they are, not as you think they should be.
This God-kind of love is not just a warm feeling but an attitude revealed through action. Love others sacrificially, selflessly; forgive and serve them.