Disciples of Christ

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What are disciples of Christ?

Are there distinct characteristics that describe disciples of Christ? Who can become one of His disciples?

First of all, a disciple of Jesus Christ is someone who has accepted by faith God's free gift of salvation. The word disciple refers to a follower of Jesus, a learner, or a pupil. So, in order to be a follower of Jesus, one must believe His Gospel and accept it by faith.

Disciples of Christ display other characteristics as well:

• Commitment - 2 Corinthians 4:8-11 says, "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body." When troubles come into a disciple's life, he or she does not become troubled or fall into despair. Instead the disciple displays commitment and overcomes the trial through Jesus Christ. Even when he or she faces intense opposition, commitment prevails.
  
  
• Consecration - Romans 12:1-2 says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will." Consecration is the act of setting apart or dedicating someone or something for God's purposes. A disciple is consecrated unto the Lord.
  
  
• Perspective - Colossians 1:24 says, "Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church." A disciple of Jesus Christ has an eternal focus and is not overcome with thoughts of the past or present.

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