Summary: The first place where this is most evident is that disciples do not experience joy in a consistent manner. This aspect is the hallmark or underpinning in what it means to be “just” a disciple—there is a lack of joy. Let me say it another way, disciples lack joy in a meaningful way that is coherent, consistent and reliable. After this, all the other traits splinter off and are born from this one aspect. I remember someone once saying that joy is the hallmark of the Christian. I think that says it precisely what it means to be the friend of Jesus. However, in a realistic way, disciples do not experience this stuff on a regular basis.
