Is following Jesus a once-in-a-lifetime decision, or something more? In this message, Pastor David Payne opens John 8 and challenges how we think about what it means to be a disciple.
Saying yes to Jesus changes our eternal destination in an instant. Becoming like Jesus is a lifelong journey. Jesus said, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.” Faithful, not perfect. Pastor David unpacks why discipleship isn’t a label we earn or a finish line we cross. It’s an identity we live from. Even the Apostle Paul admitted in Romans 7 that he didn’t always do what he wanted to do, and his answer was Jesus.
Big Idea: “Discipleship is the process of becoming who Jesus would be if He were you.” – Dallas Willard
When we mess up, we don’t stop being disciples. We get up the next day and keep following. Our identity drives our habits, our habits shape where we end up, and if our walk with God has plateaued, it may be time to change the system. Give yourself and others grace on the journey. Transformation isn’t once in a lifetime, so mark the moments, but measure in years.
If you’ve said yes to Jesus, you’re a disciple. You’re just in process.
BIBLICAL REFERENCES
John 8:21-24 (NLT) — Unless you believe that I Am who I claim to be
John 8:30-32 (NLT) — You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings
John 8:54-59 (NLT) — Before Abraham was even born, I Am
Romans 7:15, 18-19, 24-25 (NLT) — I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it
Galatians 6:9 (NIV) — At the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up
Romans 6:6-7, 18 (MSG) — Our old way of life was nailed to the cross with Christ
