The measure of a disciple

"It is possible to know all about doctrine and yet not know Jesus. The soul is in danger when knowledge of doctrine outsteps intimate touch with Jesus." - Ozzie Chambers I wonder how connected I am to the heart of Jesus lately. The true measure of a disciple is his intimacy with Jesus; not how much they know. Now this is not to say that knowledge and study are characteristics of people who are not disciples. That knowledge can and should always bring us toward intimacy with the Father. But the primary question remains, "Do I have an intimate connection with the heart of Jesus?" Because THAT is the knowledge of Jesus that I desire.

There is a great story to be remembered here. There was a small church that had had a new pastor come to lead them. The church leaders came together to discuss the transition. One leader said, "Well what's the difference between the pastors?"

Another answered, "Well the old pastor preached that we are all sinners in need of grace, and Jesus came to die that we may be saved."

"Well what does the new pastor preach?"

"He preaches that we are all sinners in need of grace, and Jesus came to die that we may be saved."

"I fail to se a difference in that."

"Our pastor, now, preaches it with tears in his eyes."