Our Scripture reading today is John 8:30-32.
Verse 31, "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, if ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;"
We can see two different positions that Jesus Christ refers to in this verse of Scripture: believer and disciple. One cannot be a disciple without first being a believer and we are not immediately disciples after becoming a believer. There is something emphasized in between believing and being a disciple - "continue in my word..."
A disciple of Jesus Christ is someone who believes that HE is the Son of God and has received His gift of eternal life. In addition, he or she determines to live by the principles of God's Word and thus becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ. A disciple is influenced by His Word every day. We consult it for advice and we share it with others. There is no greater weapon or source of wisdom than the Word of God. If we are to be His disciples, God's Word must be heard and practiced.