7 - Proof of Discipleship

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Jesus and Scripture Are One

If Jesus and the Bible are one in nature and truth—both called the Word of God—then it makes perfect sense that our relationship to Scripture mirrors our relationship to Christ Himself.

They are inseparable. You can’t say you love Jesus but ignore what He says in His Word any more than you can say you love someone but never listen when they speak.

A Conversation in the Upper Room

In John 14, Jesus sat with His disciples, preparing them for something difficult—His departure.

He was about to leave them in body, but not in spirit. The disciples were confused. They asked, “Lord, how will we stay connected if You’re gone?”

Jesus comforted them:

“A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me.” (John 14:19)

Judas (the other Judas, not the betrayer) asked:

“Lord, how will You manifest Yourself to us, and not to the world?” (John 14:22)

The Answer: Keep My Word

Jesus said:

“If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” (John 14:23)

That’s the heart of discipleship.

Notice Jesus didn’t say, “If anyone loves Me, he’ll talk about loving Me,” or “Post verses online.”

No, He said, “He will keep My Word.” That’s the key.

Four Vital Truths in Jesus’ Promise

1. A True Disciple Keeps God’s Word. That’s the mark of a disciple.
   

2. Keeping God’s Word Shows Love and Brings Favor. Real love acts—Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”
   

3. Christ Reveals Himself Through His Word. You don’t need to chase mystical experiences. He shows up when you treasure and obey His Word.
   

4. God Makes His Home in the Obedient Heart. He and the Father make Their home in you—not because of perfection, but because His Word lives there.
   

Living Proof

Obedience isn’t about rules; it’s about relationship. Jesus says, “If you trust Me enough to follow what I say, I’ll meet you there.”

That’s discipleship: building a life where Christ’s Word has a permanent home. Faith tops being theory and becomes your home.

Reflection Questions

• How does your love for Christ show up in keeping His Word—in choices, habits, words?
  

• Which part of Jesus’ promise means most—the idea of “seeing Him,” “being loved by the Father,” or “becoming a home for God”? Why?
  

• When was obeying God’s Word hardest recently? How might that have been an invitation to know Christ more?
  

• What’s one practical step you can take this week to live as someone who not only hears but keeps Jesus’ words?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for not leaving us alone—you gave us Your Word, Your Spirit, and Your presence promise. Help us love You not just with words, but with hearts that keep Your Word. May our lives be a home where You and the Father dwell. Amen.

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