On your journey of transformation, it makes sense to start with the end in mind. That's why we've captured the Five Marks from the pages of Scripture.
What is a disciple? The simple answer is that it's someone who is growing to become more and more like Jesus. Every Christ-follower is on a journey toward Christ-likeness. We are all being transformed to become more and more like him.
In the beginning, God created humanity in his image. We were made to steward his creation and be his image-bearers. But humanity turned their backs on God, which shattered this relationship. Sin entered the world and everything fell apart. As a result, the image of God in each of us has been distorted and broken.
But Jesus came to restore all things. Through his life, death, and resurrection he broke the power of sin, death, and the forces of evil. He is restoring all things and will one day fix everything. When we surrender our lives to him, he gives us new life. We are set free from the chains of brokenness and are given the power to once again be his image-bearers.
Followers of Jesus live like Jesus and love like Jesus. But what does that look like? At Crosspoint, we describe this with the FIVE MARKS OF A DISCIPLE. These are the biblical characteristics that portray a follower of Jesus.
GROWTH
A disciple with GROWTH lives a surrendered life, under Christ's leadership. Surrender includes glad obedience and dependence. When our lives are surrendered, it will lead to transformation through the Spirit's power. This is the most important characteristic because, without it, the other marks cannot flourish.
COMMUNITY
A disciple in COMMUNITY engages in intentional, deeper relationships with a small group of other disciples. This group shares transformational, loving, and transparent relationships as they seek to build each other up.
PURSUIT
A disciple with PURSUIT seeks to know Christ personally above all things. They seek him through personal spiritual practices like Bible reading and prayer. They also seek him publicly through worship with the body of Christ.
SERVICE
A disciple with SERVICE has a posture of service to others. They give of their time, treasure, and talents to build up the church and to help others in need.
MISSION
A disciple on MISSION joins with Jesus in his redemptive mission in the world. They courageously share the gospel, in both word and deed. This takes place in every part of their lives - where they live, work, and play.