Characteristics of a Mature and Discipled Christian Life

As we consider the marks of a properly discipled Christian, we are reminded of the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:18-20, where He commissions His disciples to make more disciples, teaching them to observe all that He has commanded. A properly discipled Christian is one who has been transformed by the power of the gospel, and is continually being conformed to the image of Christ, as Romans 8:29 so beautifully puts it. This transformation is evident in their love for God's Word, as they seek to hide it in their hearts, that they might not sin against Him, as Psalm 119:11 encourages.

A discipled Christian is also marked by a deepening understanding of the doctrines of the faith, as they seek to grow in the knowledge of God, being rooted and grounded in love, as Ephesians 3:17-19 so eloquently expresses. This understanding is not merely intellectual, but is worked out in their everyday lives, as they seek to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, pleasing Him in all respects, as Colossians 1:10 reminds us. They are also characterized by a humility that recognizes their own sinfulness and weakness, and thus they cling to the gospel, knowing that it is only by God's grace that they are what they are, as 1 Corinthians 15:10 so humbly acknowledges.

As they grow in their faith, a properly discipled Christian will also exhibit a love for the body of Christ, seeking to serve and build up their fellow believers, as Ephesians 4:11-16 so clearly teaches. They will be marked by a desire to share the gospel with those around them, being ambassadors for Christ, as 2 Corinthians 5:20 reminds us. And they will be characterized by a perseverance that trusts in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of trials and tribulations, knowing that He is working all things together for their good, as Romans 8:28 so wonderfully promises. Ultimately, a properly discipled Christian is one who is being transformed by the gospel, and is seeking to live out their faith in a way that honors God, and brings joy to their own heart.