When a blessing becomes an insult …

Being a disciple of Jesus Christ is more than being a student.

We quickly define being a disciple as being a student or learner of Christ. The definition can easily be taken as an intellectual task — to study the God-Man and appreciate what He taught and did. But discipleship is far more than that; to be a student of Christ is to follow in His steps literally, not just intellectually.

“For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps,” 1 Peter 2:21.

That means taking real action in the lives of other people. Instead, we can be quick to offer a prayer or extend a “blessing” before quickly walking out of the lives of people in need. To offer a blessing and walk away without acting like Christ is turning a “blessing” into an insult …

“Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, ‘Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well” — but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless,” James 2:15-17.

Is your discipleship one that leads you to follow in the steps of Christ? Does your followership produce good deeds? Or do your offer empty blessings without action?

Scotty