What does it mean to be a disciple?  The literal definition from Webster’s dictionary means - 1: one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another: such as (a) Christianity.

The accepted definition simply means to accept the teachings and doctrines of another as well as the spreading of such.

John 8:31-32 “31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Jesus was telling all those who had believed what He was teaching, all those who had accepted that He was teaching truth could become His disciples.  The Greek word here in John 8:31 quite simply mean “learner” as in pupil. 

I remember having spent 12 years in public education learning everything that was “required” of me so that I could graduate at the end of 12th grade.  The statement that was made prior to walking across the stage to accept the diploma was that the following students had met the requirements set forth by the State of Texas.  With that we were called to walk across the stage and accept our diploma.  We had been students but I don’t think we became disciples.  Simply put, you can learn and never apply.  You can gain knowledge but never have the wisdom to use that knowledge or act on that knowledge. 

To me, becoming a disciple of someone or something means to transition from having a head knowledge to having a heart knowledge (passion with understanding) for the one being followed. 

Jesus made the statement, “if you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed”.  So many people today who categorize themselves as “believers” fail to abide in the “word of Jesus”.  We tend to “hear the Word” and “know the Word” but not live by the Word.  What Jesus is saying when He says “if you abide in My word” is to live in, stay in, dwell in or be present in the Word.  If we do this then we “shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free”.  In order for us to transition for that head knowledge state of mind to a heart knowledge, one must fall in love with the Master, the Teacher or the subject one is pursuing.  In relation to Christ it is one in the same.  Love becomes the motivating factor at some point in this walk. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, let me walk in Your favor as I abide in Your word.  Give me wisdom, knowledge and understanding as I live out my life as Your disciple.  In Jesus Name.  Amen.