Jesus did not call people to admire Him. He called them to follow Him.

In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff Cranston and Tiffany walk through three clear marks of true discipleship. Many believers know the right words, attend church consistently, and affirm sound doctrine. Yet the deeper question remains: Are we truly living as followers of Christ?

This conversation examines what Jesus meant when He said, “Follow Me,” and challenges listeners to consider whether their lives reflect obedience, transformation, and love.

What We Discussed

02:30 Following Jesus Is More Than Intellectual Agreement
Jesus’ call to follow Him is not merely agreement with doctrine. It’s a call to obedience, surrender, and life change. Discipleship involves transformation, not just information.

03:15 #1 Abiding in God’s Word
Abiding means staying rooted in Scripture so that it shapes decisions, priorities, convictions, and worldview. Discipleship begins with ongoing dependence on God’s truth.

07:05 Bearing Spiritual Fruit as Evidence of a Living Faith
Authentic faith produces visible evidence, not spiritual performance or curated appearances.

09:30 Fruit Grows Through Faithfulness, Not Speed
Discipleship is described as a slow, steady process. Jesus does not demand instant fruit. He calls for faithfulness over time. Growth may be gradual, but it is real.

11:10 Loving as Jesus Loves
The defining mark of Jesus' disciples is a love that goes beyond preference or affection.

12:40 Love Our Enemies
Rooted in Matthew 5:44, this call challenges believers to reflect Christ’s character in difficult relationships.

14:20 Love Is Action, Not Feeling
Biblical love is not primarily emotional. It is active and intentional. It expresses itself through obedience, sacrifice, and Spirit-empowered service.

16:00 Why Love Is the Visible Badge of Discipleship
While doctrine matters deeply, love is the evidence the world recognizes most clearly. Christlike love becomes the visible marker of a true disciple.

18:45 Direction, Not Perfection
 The episode closes with a reminder that discipleship is about direction, not flawlessness. Jesus meets His followers where they are and calls them forward in faithfulness.

“Discipleship isn't about hustle. It's about faithfulness.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston

👉 Bonus Resource: The quiz questions are adapted from theologian Tim Challies http://Challies.com

👉 Visit Pastor Jeff Cranston on Amazon or his website to explore his books and booklets written to support believers in their walk with Christ.

We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at [email protected]

Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter. 

Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church. 

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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!