John 18:19, "The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine."  

I have never thought much about this verse before.  I don't believe the high priest was truly interested in Jesus' disciples or His doctrine, other than to build a case against Him.  He wanted to entrap Jesus into some statements which might be used against Him.  The Pulpit Commentary states concerning this verse that the high priest wanted to know:  "... the extent of his following, the number of his accomplices, the ramifications of the society or kingdom he professed to have founded, and concerning his doctrine, the secret teachings that held his followers together. He evidently knows the claims of Jesus well enough; his spies and officers have continually been dogging the steps of Jesus, and hitherto he has failed to gain evidence positively incriminating him. And as his representatives a few days ago were utterly foiled, notwithstanding their clever design, he hopes by his own ingenuity to entrap the Lord in his talk. Our Lord, anxious not to endanger his disciples, points to the publicity of his ministry, and appeals to all and sundry who have heard him."  

Jesus wants you and me to be genuine in our ministry to others.  He wants our doctrine to be true.  He wants our lives to reflect His character, and our speech to be always with grace, seasoned with salt" (Col. 4:6).  That we may know how we ought to answer every man.  If Jesus were asked the same question today, would He be able to if so inclined, to identify you as one of His disciples?  Would He be in agreement with your doctrine?  He would if it is Bible doctrine.  

I pray each one of us will be a disciple of Jesus Christ, true in our following Him, and in our doctrine.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. Make a list of fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith. Do you believe all these doctrines? Would you know how to defend them.

2. How would you say you should answer people when they ask you a question about Christ and or Christianity (see Colossians 4:6)?

3. Would Jesus be able to say you are one of His disciples? Explain.