1. The definition of disciple:

1. Vines - One who follows one's teaching, not only a pupil but also one who imitates or adheres to the teaching.
2. John 8:31 - "If you abide in my word, you are my disciples in deed."

2. Those disciples of Christ in the 1^st century were called Christians - Acts 11:26.

1. Those called Christians believed in Christ's doctrine.
2. They obeyed the doctrine.
3. They imitated their Lord.

3. Yet like His own apostles, Christ's followers today are not all committed to His cause in the same way. From John 6:66-71 we see three levels:

1. The deplorable - those who betray
2. The defectors - those who go away
3. The dependable - those who stay

4. We all fit into one of these categories, so let us examine each level and determine where we are.