Marks of a Disciple 12: Compassion Questions

This questionnaire is designed for you to self-assess behaviors that show at what level you are taking actions, making choices, and attaining knowledge that characterizes a disciple of Christ.

Ask yourself these questions and gain clarity regarding your path of growth in compassion.

This is not a test! There is no grade! There is no one to compare yourself to!

Take note of the questions that you might answer Never/Unlikely/or Unaware. Pray through them and identify areas where God might ask you to focus and grow next year. In the same way, note your answers of Often/Very Likely/or Very Aware and thank God for the opportunities He has given you to grow in those areas. Posts for the next five days will cover each of the marks of a disciple. You may want to refer to previous posts for more information about each mark.

COMPASSION is a characteristic that can be measured by the extent of the disciple’s love for those who don’t know Christ and participation in the following spiritual disciplines.

Love for Others: Matthew 9:36, Jesus “felt compassion … because they were distressed and downcast,”

1. How often do you feel compassion because someone you know, or meet, is in trouble or living a sinful life? Never/Sometimes/Often
2. How likely is it that you feel respect for someone who does not agree with you? Unlikely/Likely/Very Likely
3. How aware are you of your own need for repentance when you extend grace and mercy to others? Unaware/Aware/Very Aware
4. Which word best describes how you feel when you show compassion to others? Surrendered/Persistent/Wise/Loving/Powerful

Community: Acts 2:42: “Devoted … to fellowship.”

1. If Christian fellowship is a place to show and receive compassion, how often do you spend time in relationship with other Christians? Never/Sometimes/Often
2. How likely is it that you reach out to new Christians and plan time to get together? Unlikely/Likely/Very Likely
3. Which word best describes how you feel when you spend time with other Christians? Surrendered/Persistent/Wise/Loving/Powerful

Witness: Romans 10:15, “Bring the good news.”

1. If a standard for showing love to others is sharing Christ with them, how often do you witness to others in a year? Never (0)/Sometimes/Often
2. How aware are you of someone’s interest in Christ before you share your faith with them? Unaware/Aware/Very Aware
3. Which word best describes how you feel when you share your faith? Surrendered/Persistent/Wise/Loving/Powerful

Identify one action that could support your growth. After completing the questions for each of the five marks, prioritize each action and choose one to commit to for next year.

God of Love, I know You love me when I am distressed and anxious. Help me to reach out to others who are sad and fearful and share with them the good news that sustains me. You are my “good news.” Amen.