Are you truly saved or just someone who believes? Discover the 3 essential marks of a real disciple of Jesus Christ, as we examine the difference between mere belief and genuine, transforming faith.
What makes you a Christian? This is a question I really want you to ask yourself. If you were to die today what gives you confidence that you will be counted among the sheep? Do you feel the security within that you are saved beyond a doubt, or do you question what your status is in heaven?
Does it make you nervous that these are the words spoken by Jesus: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven…” -Matthew 7:21?
There are surveys and studies that estimate that among all professing Christians in the USA that only 25%-46% actually are. Pastors were surveyed, as were church members and their answers were compared to Biblical doctrine and this is what we have. That on average, as you look around your Church service not even half are true, real Christians. Of course that is not a flat baseline at every church. Every church has a different makeup. These are averages.
So what side of that percentage are you on?
There is a distinction between simply believing and truly being a follower.
“You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.” — James 2:19
If you simply believe that God is real. If you believe that Jesus lived, walked this earth and died that is good . But simply believing these things are real does not equal your salvation. You believing the facts about Jesus’ life and existence does not mean that you have been saved.
Do you follow him?
🐑 The Difference Between Belief and Genuine Faith (Discipleship)
To follow Jesus is more than just believing facts; it is transferring allegiance from self and/or Satan and committing your life to Him as both Savior and Lord. The Bible clearly lays out the evidence of a true follower—not as a checklist for earning salvation, but as the natural fruit of a transformed life.
1. Following Means Repentance: Turning From Sin
A true follower doesn’t just intellectually agree that Jesus is needed; they recognize their own sinfulness and turn away from a life of rebellion against God. Repentance isn’t just saying sorry; it’s a fundamental change of direction.
- It is acknowledging your sin. You admit that you have broken God’s law and that your sin separates you from a holy God.
- It is turning toward God. You actively decide to forsake your old ways and submit to Christ’s authority. This initial choice sets the stage for a lifelong pursuit of holiness.
2. Following Means Transformation: Bearing the Fruit of the Spirit
If you have truly been saved, the Holy Spirit has taken up residence in your heart. This is not a passive event; it begins the process of sanctification—becoming more like Christ. We look for the “fruit of the Spirit” as evidence of this change (Galatians 5:22-23).
- Do you have a desire for God’s Word? Do you hunger to read the Bible and understand His will?
- Do you increasingly hate your sin? Is there a persistent, authentic struggle against temptations you used to embrace?
- Do you love others? Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). Love is the unmistakable hallmark of a genuine Christ-follower.
3. Following Means Submission: Accepting Jesus’ Lordship
This is where the distinction between “believer” and “real disciple” becomes critical. Many people want Jesus as a Savior from Hell, but they do not want Him as Lord over their life. The Bible calls us to surrender all areas of our lives—our finances, our relationships, our career choices, our free time—to His divine authority.
- Are you obedient? Jesus Himself linked discipleship with obedience: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). A true Christian does not live a life of perfect obedience, but their life is characterized by a pattern of submission and a desire to honor God.
- Is your obedience out of love or fear? Genuine faith produces obedience that flows from a deep, abiding love for the God who saved you, not from a legalistic fear of punishment.
🚨 Find Assurance: Why True Faith Rests in Christ Alone
Let’s be clear: we are not saved by our own efforts, our attendance record, or how good our life looks on the outside. Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9).
However, true faith is never alone. It always produces evidence.
The Bible warns us not to be deceived, urging us to “examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5).
This examination is not to earn salvation, but to confirm that the Spirit of God truly resides in you.
If these questions leave you questioning the security of your salvation, do not let that fear paralyze you. Let it drive you to the feet of the only One who can save.
What is your next step?
- If you have never truly submitted to Jesus Christ as both your Savior and your Lord, do it today. Repent of your sin and put your complete trust in His finished work on the cross.
- If you are unsure, examine the fruit of your life. Ask God to reveal any areas of pretense or false confidence. A true Christian finds security not in their own worthiness, but in the unwavering promises of God.
The great news is that God’s desire is for all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). If you are reading this, you still have the opportunity to ensure that when you stand before Him, He will welcome you with the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
🛡️ Prepare for What Lies Ahead: Secure Your Foundation Now
The question of true discipleship is not an academic one; it is a matter of readiness.
I wrote this article now, along with the foundational post, “What’s Really Wrong With You and Why You Can’t Fix It Alone,” because you need to secure your foundation. Over the coming weeks and months, we are going to be diving into crucial and challenging topics that our generation must be prepared to face.
Whether the Lord comes in our lifetime or not, there are significant pressures, challenges, and world-shaking events on the horizon that demand a solid, unwavering faith. We must stop settling for superficial belief, examine ourselves, and be anchored in Christ to stand firm.
This is not the time for weak faith. This is the time to prepare.
Subscribe to the blog today to ensure you receive the necessary teaching, preparation, and insight needed to stand strong and face what lies ahead in our lifetime.
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