Introduction

Welcome, dear friends, to this sacred space where we gather, not as strangers, but as a family united under the banner of Christ's love. We are here not because we are perfect, but because we are loved by a perfect God. We are here to seek His face, to learn His ways, and to grow in His likeness.

Our focus today is drawn from the first epistle of John, a letter that is as much a mirror as it is a map. It reflects who we are and guides us toward who we can become in Christ. In the second chapter, verses one through six, John writes:

"My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, 'I know him,' but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did." (1 John 2:1-6)

In this passage, we find the heart of discipleship, the essence of godly character, and the blueprint for Christian community.

Discipleship Defined by Jesus

Discipleship is about obedience: It is about aligning our will with God's will. It is about surrendering our desires, our plans, our dreams to God and saying, "Not my will, but Yours be done." This is not a one-time act, but a daily decision. It is not easy, but it is rewarding. It is not about earning God's love, but about expressing our love for God.

Discipleship is about transformation: As we obey God's commands, we are changed. We are molded into the image of Christ. We become more loving, more patient, more kind, more forgiving. We become less selfish, less prideful, less judgmental. This transformation is not instant, but gradual. It is not visible, but internal. It is not about changing our behavior, but about changing our heart.

Discipleship is about community: It is about living out our faith in the context of relationships. It is about loving our neighbors as ourselves. It is about serving others, not out of obligation, but out of love. It is about building up the body of Christ, not tearing it down. It is about unity, not division. It is about encouragement, not criticism.

Discipleship is about sacrifice: It is about laying down our lives for the sake of the gospel. It is about taking up our cross daily and following Jesus. It is about dying to self and living for Christ. It is about giving up our rights, our comforts, our conveniences for the sake of others. It is about counting the cost and deciding that Jesus is worth it.

Developing Godly Character Through Jesus

The role of love in our character development: John tells us that if we obey God's word, love for God is truly made complete in us ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO