Articles

Groupies or Disciples?

Merriam-Webster defines a groupie as “a fan of a rock group who usually follows the group around on concert tours.” An alternate definition is, “an admirer of a celebrity who attends as many of his or her public appearances as possible.” There is no doubt, we should admire Jesus Christ. However, Jesus doesn’t call us to be groupies. He doesn’t ask us to be admirers or fans or subscribers. He asks us to be disciples. Students of His word. “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:31).

It’s easy to be a Jesus groupie. All we have to do is buy the “WWJD” bracelets and the Jesus T-shirts and we’re well on our way! It’s not wrong to own those things, but Jesus doesn’t tell us to wear things about Him. He says to wear Him (Galatians 3:27). Jesus doesn’t tell us to hang crosses all over our bodies and our houses. He tells us to hang ourselves on the cross daily (Luke 9:23). Jesus doesn’t tell us to cry out to Him “Lord, Lord,” as if He’s some celebrity and we’re trying to get Him to notice us and appreciate our fan-hood. He tells us to do God’s will, or He’ll say, “I never knew you...” (Matt. 7:21-23). What about you? Are you a disciple or a groupie?