Sermon Notes:
1. Jesus never called his disciples Christians. Matthew 28:18-20
2. The early disciples of Jesus didn’t call themselves Christians.
3. People outside the faith created the term Christian to describe the disciples of Jesus.
4. There is no clear definition for the term Christian in the New Testament but, Jesus gives a very clear definition of what a disciple of His looks like.
The three primary characteristics of a disciple:
5. Jesus says His disciples will abide in His teachings. (John 8:31-32)
6. Jesus says His disciple will be known for their love for one another. (John 13:34-35)
7. Jesus says His disciples will bear fruit of a changed life. (John 15:5-8)
Follow-up Questions from Sunday:
Quick Review:
Looking back at your notes from this week’s teaching, was there anything you heard for the first time or that caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Digging Deeper:
1. What do you think are some of the definitions people have for a Christian today in the 21st century?
2. Read Matthew 28:18-20. Why do you think Jesus used the term “disciple” and not Christian? In what ways is the term “disciple” clearer in its understanding, than the term Christian?
3. As you read John 8:31-32, what does Jesus say is a defining characteristic of a disciple of His? What do you think He means by this and how do you think this is practically played out in a person’s life?
4. As you read John 13:34-35, why do you think love is such an important characteristic for which Jesus wants His disciples to be known? Do you think this is happening today, why or why not?
5. As you read John 15:5-8, what does Jesus say is a defining characteristic of a disciple of His? What do you think He means by this and how do you think this is practically played out in a person’s life?
6. What benefits do you think would happen if we started calling ourselves ‘disciples’ of Jesus instead of Christians? What response do you think we would get from non-believers?
Prayer:
Close your group with prayer and spend some time thanking Jesus for carrying the burden of our salvation on His shoulders! Thank Him for being “gentle and humble in heart”!
Taking it Home:
As a disciple of Jesus (follower, learner), spend time really studying the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John. Get a good study Bible to help you along the way! Make this a priority between now and Easter!