The Litmus Test of Discipleship

Daily Scripture Threshing for Friday, January 7, 2022

Today’s Text: John 13:31-35

Key Verse: John 13:35 (KJV): “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”

We have heard and seen how the wicked world seeks after signs and wonders. Whether they get that which they seek or not, it is still not the proof that we follow Jesus Christ. Our eloquent speaking or teaching of the word of God is not proof either. Even if we speak with tongues of angels, and we are even able to cast out demons in the name of Jesus Christ. None of these things give evidence to the fact that we are Christ’s disciples. There is just one mark and test of true discipleship according to Jesus: only our love for one another will prove to the world that we are Christ’s disciples.

Our old (Adamic) nature proves itself in selfishness, coldness, hatred, suspicion, bitterness, malice, unforgiveness, and envy; but when the love of Christ appears, it melts away all those manifest works of the flesh so that a new disposition of love, kindness, goodwill, confidence, grace, trust, and mutual helpfulness now becomes our mark. Love is the spiritual power that accounts for our renewed life in all its senses. It was the Master's love that made Him lay down His life for us. His people must show their devotion to Him by loving the people He loves. Friends, it is sobering that our test of discipleship is not are we pastoring a megachurch or performing signs and wonders; but the question for all of us is whether or not we are working in love! Are you walking in love?

Quote for the Day: “Christlike life shows itself consistent with genuine admiration for God’s peculiar people. It shows deep personal sympathy with them in their struggles and temptations.” (Simon Olatunji)

Prayer: Dear Lord, I am Your child, and I commit to walking in Your kind of love. Teach me to suffer long; to be patient and kind. Help me never to be envious, jealous, or boastful. Teach me to be polite and eschew self-seeking life — in Jesus’ name. Amen.

With all my love and prayers this weekend as always, and please have a beautiful one,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D

The Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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