Everyone follows, give themselves to, and trusts in whatever they believe will give them Life.

It’s a big statement. But, if true, it means that everyone is a disciple of something, including you. It doesn’t matter whether someone is religious, reads the Bible, or has an awareness of their pursuit; everyone pursues Life.

This Sunday at church, notice the person in front of you. Even though you are members of the same church, attend the same service, sing the same worship songs, and listen to the same sermon, chances are you’re not there for the same reason.

In an average church, there are at least five types of disciples. Each one in the same building, at the same time, hoping to find life (fullness, peace, purpose, etc.). It’s not a bad place to look. Jesus identified Himself as Life (John 6:35, 14:6) and said that He’d come so that we could have life and have it to the full (John 10:10). So, who are these five types of disciples?

1. Disciples of Knowledge. To these individuals, information is king. They go to church to be educated. They may know 1 Timothy 4:16, “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” For these disciples, each new insight gives a glimpse of life. They believe that more understanding will give them more life. Often they choose a church based on the pastor’s preaching and doctrine. After years of pursuit they bear the fruit of doctrinal pride, legalism, and arrogance.