How can you tell if someone is growing as a disciple of Jesus?
Is it Bible knowledge?
Church attendance?
Religious activity?
Those things can be good, but Jesus gave His disciples a very clear mark of genuine growth.
He said:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”
—John 13:34
Then He added:
“By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
—John 13:35
Jesus did not say the world would know we are His disciples by how much we know, or how hard we work for Him.
He said they would know by our love.
And so, discipleship is not merely learning more about Jesus. It’s becoming more like Him.
Jesus loved patiently.
He loved sacrificially.
He loved people who were weak, confused, slow to understand, and difficult to love.
That means growth in Christ becomes visible in the way you treat other people.
In your home.
At work.
In a store.
Whether you truly forgive.
And in the way you serve when no one is watching.
Love does not mean we ignore the truth about people or situations.
But truth without love can become harsh, and love without truth can become shallow.
A mature disciple learns to speak truth with humility, and to serve others with the heart of Christ.
So this week, ask:
“Lord Jesus, who are You calling me to love more like You?”
Maybe that means forgiving someone.
Maybe it means serving someone quietly.
It may mean listening before speaking.
Or, encouraging another believer who is tired or discouraged.
A Discipleship Partner can help you notice where God’s Spirit is calling you to change.
To learn more about discipleship at Good Hope, or request a Discipleship Partner, visit: https://goodhopelive.com/discipleship
Jesus still says:
“Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
