The Test of Discipleship

The most basic test of our discipleship is whether we say yes or no to Jesus and His mission. In Matthew 16 Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God and receives Christ's blessing and commendation. He was walking closely to Jesus. Just as quickly though, Peter turns away and rebukes Christ. You could say he was just being honest, but isn't the nature of sin the self-will that leads us away from Christ and not nearer?

What does it take to grow in Christ? A simple "yes". A "no" answer sinks us. What's the cure? Adore Jesus more than sin. Desire the Spirit over the flesh. How to do this? Only by God's empowering and enabling. It is only accomplishable by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, for God's glory alone.