A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW 

TRUE DISCIPLES     

Matthew 7:21-23 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” 

By definition a disciple of is someone who is a learner, pupil, scholar. The Old Testament Hebrew word for “learn” included not only learning but also putting into practice what is learned. The word took on a broader meaning to include accepting and practicing the teachings of a teacher. As you know, in the New Testament Jesus was often addressed by the title “teacher.” The name “disciple” was given to those who believed and practiced what Jesus taught. 

A true disciple of Jesus is a person who believes in Him and follows His teaching. Jesus expanded this further by saying to His disciples, “ . . . you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” So, disciples of Jesus believe in Him, know and practice His teachings, and witness to others what they know and believe concerning Jesus. 

A true disciple of Jesus hears His words and does them. James asked, “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds?” (James 2:14) “ . . . Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that his faith and his actions were working together.” (James 2:21-22)  

Dr. Jeffrey Gibbs, in his commentary on Matthew’s gospel, wrote, “Jesus specifically identifies His disciples in two ways. They are His true family members, and they are the ones who do the will of His (Jesus’) Father in heaven.” 

Prayer: Dear Jesus, send Your Holy Spirit into my heart daily to do the will of Your Father. In Your holy name. Amen. 

I want to walk as a chld of the light, I want to follow Jesus.  
God set the stars to give light to the world.   
The star of my life is Jesus, 

Refrain:   In Him there is no darkness at all.    
The night and the day are both alike.   
The Lamb is the light of the city of god.   
Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus. 

I want to see the brightness of God, I want to look at Jesus.  
Clear Sun of Righteousness, shine on my path,  
And show me the way to the Father. Refrain: 

I’m looking for the coming of Christ. I want to be with Jesus.  
When we have run with patience the race,  
We shall know the joy of Jesus. Refrain:  

I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light - LSB 411