What Does It Mean to Follow the Teachings of Jesus Christ?
Following the teachings of Jesus Christ means striving to become more like Him every day.
A true disciple doesn't have one personality at church and another at work, school, or home. Instead, they strive to be the same person everywhere they go.
That doesn't mean we're perfect. We all make mistakes. But it does mean we sincerely strive to make righteous decisions, avoid sin, and repent when we fall short.
Our goal is not simply to know Christ's teachings—it is to live them.
As we consistently choose honesty, kindness, humility, forgiveness, and obedience, we gradually become more like the Savior.
Living the Gospel When No One Is Watching
Private behavior reveals the true condition of our hearts.
Anyone can appear righteous when surrounded by others.
The greater test of discipleship is who we are when no one else is around.
Jesus taught that God sees not only our outward actions but also our hearts.
As we strive to live the gospel privately as well as publicly, our integrity grows. We become the same disciple whether we're at church, at work, at home, online, or completely alone.
That kind of consistency brings peace because we are no longer trying to be different people in different places.
Why Does the Question Mention Our Families?
It can sometimes be easiest to show patience and kindness to strangers while unintentionally being less patient with the people we love most.
The Savior invites us to love everyone—including those closest to us.
Our homes should be places where the gospel is lived daily through love, forgiveness, service, patience, and respect.
The way we treat our spouse, children, parents, and siblings says a great deal about our discipleship.
If we truly strive to follow Jesus Christ, our families should feel His love through the way we speak, serve, and forgive.
What Does Living the Gospel Look Like?
Living the gospel is found in everyday decisions.
It means:
- Being genuinely kind to others.
- Being honest in what we say and do.
- Forgiving others quickly.
- Serving whenever we have the opportunity.
- Being patient, even when others are struggling.
- Choosing to follow Jesus Christ even when it is difficult.
These simple acts may seem small, but they shape who we become over time.
What If I Feel Like I'm Different in Different Places?
Every disciple has opportunities to grow.
The good news is that Jesus Christ doesn't expect instant perfection.
He invites us to become more like Him one day at a time.
As we pray, study the scriptures, repent, and seek the companionship of the Holy Ghost, our private and public lives begin to reflect the same commitment to Christ.
Little by little, our character becomes more consistent because our identity is rooted in being a disciple of Jesus Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does following Jesus Christ mean I'll never make mistakes?
No.
Discipleship is about continually striving to follow the Savior and repenting when we fall short.
Why does private behavior matter so much?
Because our character is revealed by what we choose when no one else is watching. True integrity means living the gospel whether or not anyone sees.
Is this question asking if I'm perfect?
No.
It asks whether you are striving to live the teachings of Jesus Christ consistently in every area of your life.
Scriptures to Study
- Matthew 5–7
- Matthew 22:36–40
- John 13:34–35
- Luke 10:25–37
- Philippians 2:3–5
- Mosiah 2
- Moroni 7
Final Thoughts
Jesus Christ invites us to become the same disciple everywhere we go.
As we strive to live His teachings at home, at work, at school, at church, and in private moments, our faith becomes part of who we are—not just something we practice occasionally.
The temple is not about presenting a perfect life. It is about sincerely striving to follow the Savior with all our heart.
As we do, He continues to shape us into the disciples He knows we can become.
We hope this article has helped you better understand what it means to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ in every part of your life. Our prayer is that every resource we create points you toward the Savior and helps you prepare to make and keep sacred temple covenants.
Thank you for spending part of your temple journey with us.
— Scott & Riah Brough
Brough Made
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