The Marks of a Disciple examines the qualities Jesus says will define His followers, such as love, perseverance, obedience, forgiveness, generosity, and spiritual fruitfulness. These studies help us understand what a mature disciple looks like in everyday life.
1. Disciples Love Jesus Above All
In Luke 14:26, Jesus uses the word “hate” to describe the priority of loving Him above all. Far from emotional hostility, this call means choosing Christ first—an act of will, commitment, and allegiance that defines true discipleship.
2. Disciples Exchange Self for Christ
In Luke 9:23, Jesus calls every disciple to deny themselves. This isn’t self-rejection but surrender, it’s the choice to let go of self-rule and live under Christ’s lordship. Learn how daily self-denial leads to transformation, humility, and lasting joy.
3. Disciples Carry Their Cross
Jesus calls every believer to carry the cross as a daily act of surrender, faith, and obedience. This devotional explores what it truly means to follow Christ, die to self, and live in the transforming power of His grace
4. The Sign of a Disciple – Bearing Fruit
Bearing fruit means living a life that glorifies God through love, good works, gospel witness, and praise. This devotional explores how disciples can reflect Christ by bearing the fruit of the Spirit and participating in His mission.
5. Love One Another – A Sign for the World
True disciples are known by their love. Jesus commands His followers to love one another so the world will recognize His presence through their unity, compassion, and grace.
6. A Disciple is a Servant
Jesus redefined greatness through servanthood. In this devotional on Mark 10:43, explore what it means to serve others as a disciple of Christ—reflecting His humility, using your gifts for His glory, and finding joy in following His example.
7. Obedience Is God’s Love Language
Obedience is more than duty, it’s how we show our love for Christ. Discover how obedience flows from relationship, how the Spirit empowers it, and how it draws us deeper into the heart of God.
8. A Disciple is Not Ashamed of Jesus
Following Jesus means standing with Him – unashamed and unafraid. In a world that often rejects His truth, discover how love, conviction, and the Holy Spirit empower disciples to live boldly for Christ.
9. Generosity, Storing Treasures in Heaven
Following Jesus means standing with Him – unashamed and unafraid. In a world that often rejects His truth, discover how love, conviction, and the Holy Spirit empower disciples to live boldly for Christ.
10. Disciples Strive to Imitate Jesus
To follow Jesus is to imitate Him – embracing His humility, mercy, forgiveness, and even suffering. Discover how disciples grow to reflect the Master’s life and love through daily imitation.
11. Disciples live in the Upside-Down Kingdom
Discover what it means to live in the upside-down Kingdom where disciples find life by losing it, greatness through humility, and true wealth in generosity.
12. Disciples Finish Strong
A disciple is not called merely to begin well but to finish well. In this final study, we explore Jesus’ call to endurance, Paul’s example of finishing the race, the obstacles believers face, and the eternal rewards awaiting those who remain faithful. Learn how Scripture equips disciples to persevere to the end with courage and hope.
My name is Michael Adkins. For several decades I’ve been studying Scripture, developing discipleship resources, and teaching others how to walk more closely with Christ. Currently, I serve as the Discipleship Pathway Leader at Riverside International Church in Cascais, Portugal, where my passion is helping believers grow into mature disciples who live out their faith in everyday life.