Reminded today that a disciple is someone who is deliberately following and learning from a teacher or master. It involves a relationship to gain specific knowledge and to walk their walk.

Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. And people came and said to him, “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” – Mark 2:18

Different teachers lead to different understandings and behaviours in disciples. What I love about this verse is Jesus’ response. He has His disciples back on this and answers well. By well, I mean He did not put down John the Baptist, nor did He put down the Pharisees who were following the Law.

There is a temptation to go all denominational when discipling others. I am trying to go to the scriptures and to the Holy Spirit. If the outcomes are different from the denomination I am associated with, that should be fine. I need to trust the Holy Spirit and find myself as a follower of Jesus, intentionally and deliberately.