Send us a text

What does it truly mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Far beyond a momentary confession of faith, authentic discipleship demands complete surrender and lifelong commitment. Through a powerful examination of Matthew 10:24-31, we confront the uncomfortable truth that many modern Christians have reduced discipleship to private devotions while avoiding public proclamation.

Jesus established a foundational principle: "A disciple is not above his teacher." If Christ was slandered, persecuted, and killed for openly proclaiming God's truth, His followers should expect no less. The religious leaders called Jesus "Beelzebul," essentially equating Him with Satan himself - not because He kept His faith private, but because He boldly proclaimed it publicly.

True discipleship requires bringing what we learn in private study and prayer into the public sphere, regardless of consequences. Yet many believers fear human rejection more than they fear God. This fear manifests when Christians remain silent about biblical truths that contradict cultural norms, desperately seeking friendship with the world despite James' warning that "friendship with the world is enmity with God."

The boldness required doesn't come from within ourselves. As Ephesians reminds us, our courage flows "through our faith in Him." Throughout church history, countless believers demonstrated this fearless devotion, choosing martyrdom rather than denying Christ. Lord Lawrence's memorial aptly states: "They feared man so little because they feared God so much."

From justification to glorification, disciples are called to mirror Christ - living boldly, speaking truth loudly, and standing firmly against a hostile world. As Solomon wisely noted, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge" while "the fear of man lays a snare." Which will you choose?