What does it mean to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ according to the Bible?

As Paul Washer explains, the book of John provides three essential passages for understanding discipleship. John 8 states that true disciples are those who continue in Jesus' word, gaining freedom through a growing understanding and application of theology that aids in overcoming sin. In other words, being a disciple involves more than just studying the Word—it means allowing it to transform you and free you from the power of sin.

Furthermore, John 15 emphasizes that true disciples bear fruit, which can be understood in two ways. Firstly, character—becoming more Christ-like—and secondly, through good works that glorify the Father. The third and final passage, found in John 13, defines a disciple as one who dwells within the community of faith, demonstrating love towards God's people. Thus, being a disciple of Jesus is about living according to His word, growing in sanctification, demonstrating Christ-like character, and showing love within the community of faith.

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

There's a lot of talk about discipleship today and what a disciple is. And I think there are three passages for me in the book of John that set forth exactly what we need to be focusing on with regard to the definition but also its application, like how do we disciple people. The first one is found in John 8. Jesus said, So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed in him, if you continue in my word, then you are truly disciples of mine, and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. So a lot of people will say, well, a disciple is someone who continues in the Word.

And that is true, but you can't leave off the second part. By continuing in the Word, you're set free. And the context indicates from sin. So it's not just someone that academically is in the Word and growing in theology, but it's someone whose theology is beginning to have an impact on their life, freeing them more and more from the power of sin. So that's the first definition.

Then we go on And Jesus says in John 15, my father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples. So the first one was you continue in the word, and you're growing in sanctification. The second is through the word and prayer, you're bearing fruit. Now, fruit bearing can be divided up simplistically in two categories. First of all, character, Christ-likeness.

Second would be good works through which people glorify the Father. And then the last one is found in John 13. And it says, A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this, all men will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another. So now we see a disciple is defined by living within the community of faith and demonstrating love towards God's people.

So that's a disciple.