Discovering the Meaning of Disciple in Christianity

As a Christian, you may have heard the word disciple being used frequently in church and in the Bible. But what does it really mean to be a disciple of Christ? In this article, we will dive into the biblical definition of disciple, explore examples of discipleship in the Bible, and discuss the importance of discipleship in Christian life.

When Jesus called his first disciples, he invited them to “follow me”. But what did he mean by this? In this post, we will analyze what Jesus meant by “follow me” and how we can apply this to our own lives as Christians.

Whether you are a new believer or have been a Christian for years, learning how to become a disciple of Christ is a lifelong journey. Join us as we explore the meaning of discipleship and how we can become better followers of Christ. Keep reading to discover the true meaning of discipleship in Christianity!

Understanding the Biblical Definition of Disciple

The term “disciple” is frequently mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament. In its most basic sense, a disciple is someone who follows the teachings of another, which in the context of Christianity, refers to Jesus Christ. As believers, we are called to be disciples and to make disciples of others.

The Greek word for disciple is “mathetes,” which means learner or student. Being a disciple of Christ is a lifelong journey of learning and growing in faith, in which we become apprentices of Jesus, following His example and teachings. To be a disciple means to be transformed by the Holy Spirit and to imitate Christ’s character.

Discipleship involves a deep commitment to Jesus, including surrendering our own wills, taking up our crosses daily, and following Him. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” This call to discipleship requires us to be dedicated to serving God and others.

Discipleship is not just an individual endeavor but is also a communal one. In the early church, discipleship was a vital aspect of the Christian community, in which believers gathered together to learn and grow in faith. The concept of being a disciple is closely tied to the idea of being a part of the body of Christ, which is the Church.

Ultimately, to be a disciple of Christ means to be in a relationship with Him. It is not just about knowing about Jesus but rather knowing Jesus personally and intimately. It is through this relationship that we are transformed, renewed, and equipped to carry out the Great Commission of making disciples of all nations.

Now that we have a basic understanding of what a disciple is, let’s explore what Jesus meant when He said, “Follow me.”

The Roots of the Word “Disciple”

• Etymology: The word “disciple” comes from the Latin word “discipulus,” which means learner or follower.

• Hebrew Equivalent: In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word “talmid” is used to refer to a student or pupil, and this term is often translated as “disciple.”

• Greek Equivalent: In the New Testament, the Greek word “mathetes” is used to refer to a disciple, and it means “learner” or “follower.”

The root of the word “disciple” emphasizes the importance of learning and following. A disciple is not just someone who believes in Jesus, but also someone who is committed to learning from Him and following His teachings.

The Role of a Disciple in Christianity

Being a disciple in Christianity means following Jesus Christ and his teachings, while striving to live a life that reflects his example. The role of a disciple is to be a student and follower of Jesus, to learn from him and to emulate his life in every aspect.

Disciples are called to spread the message of Christ and to make other disciples. This involves sharing the gospel with others, inviting them to accept Christ as their Savior, and teaching them how to follow him. Discipleship is an ongoing process that involves both personal growth and community building.

As disciples, Christians are also called to be servants of God and others. This means putting the needs of others before their own, following Christ’s example of humility, and using their gifts and talents to serve the church and the wider community.

Another important aspect of being a disciple is to be a witness for Christ in the world. This involves living a life that reflects Christ’s teachings, sharing the gospel with others, and being a positive influence in the world.

Ultimately, the role of a disciple is to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to strive to live a life that reflects his example, and to share the message of Christ with others.

What Jesus Meant by “Follow Me”

When Jesus called His disciples, He didn’t simply ask them to believe in Him; He asked them to follow Him. This phrase, “follow me,” would become a cornerstone of His teachings and a defining characteristic of a disciple. Follow means to come after or pursue, and it’s a call to action.

Following Jesus means more than just attending church or believing in God. It means living a life of obedience, sacrifice, and service. It means putting Him first in everything and allowing Him to guide your steps. Obedience is crucial to being a disciple.

Jesus often spoke about the cost of following Him. He knew that it would require sacrifice and that many would turn away from Him because of it. But for those who were willing to give up everything to follow Him, the reward would be great. Sacrifice is an essential part of discipleship.

Following Jesus also means serving others. He came to serve, and He calls His followers to do the same. We are to love and serve one another, just as He loved and served us. Service is a key aspect of being a disciple.

Ultimately, following Jesus means eternal life. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him. When we follow Him, we are promised eternal life in His kingdom. Eternity is the ultimate reward for discipleship.

The Invitation to Discipleship

• Free Will: The invitation to follow Jesus and become His disciple is not forced, but it’s a decision that we make on our own. Jesus invites us to follow Him, but the decision to accept or reject the invitation is ours to make.

• Surrender: When we accept the invitation to discipleship, we must surrender our lives to Jesus. We must give up our desires and submit to His will. This means putting Jesus first in our lives and seeking to obey Him in all things.

• Cross-Bearing: Jesus said that anyone who wants to be His disciple must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. This means that we must be willing to suffer and make sacrifices for Jesus’ sake. We must be willing to endure hardship and persecution for the sake of the Gospel.

Accepting Jesus’ invitation to discipleship is not an easy decision, but it is the most rewarding decision we can ever make. Jesus promised to be with us always, to guide us and to give us strength. Are you ready to accept Jesus’ invitation and become His disciple today?

Examples of Discipleship in the Bible

Abraham – Abraham is considered the father of faith, and he serves as a model of discipleship. Abraham was called by God to leave his home and journey to a new land, and he obediently followed God’s call, even when it meant sacrificing his son Isaac.

Moses – Moses was called by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and into the Promised Land. Despite his initial reluctance, Moses trusted in God and followed His plan, becoming a great leader and prophet in the process.

Mary and Martha – In Luke 10, we see Mary and Martha as examples of discipleship. Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, listening to His teaching, while Martha was busy with the tasks of hospitality. While both were important, Mary’s willingness to learn from Jesus and prioritize Him above all else serves as an example for all believers.

Peter, James, and John – These three disciples were part of Jesus’ inner circle and were present for many important moments in His ministry, such as the Transfiguration. They were also instrumental in the early church and spreading the Gospel after Jesus’ ascension.

The Twelve Apostles

The twelve apostles were a group of disciples who were specifically chosen by Jesus to be his closest companions during his earthly ministry. They were called to be witnesses of his teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection, and were given the responsibility to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth.

The apostles were: Peter, James, John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus (also known as Judas, not Iscariot), Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot. Each one had a unique personality and background, but they shared a common desire to follow Jesus and share his message with the world.

Their journey as apostles was not easy, and they faced many challenges, including persecution, imprisonment, and martyrdom. But they remained faithful to their calling and continued to spread the gospel even in the face of great danger and opposition.

Mary Magdalene: From Sinner to Disciple

Mary Magdalene is one of the most mysterious figures in the New Testament. She is only mentioned a few times, yet her presence is significant. According to the Gospel of Luke, she was a woman whom Jesus healed of seven demons. However, she is most commonly known for being a former prostitute who later became a devoted follower of Christ.

Mary Magdalene’s transformation from a sinner to a disciple is a powerful story that resonates with many people. It is a testament to the transformative power of faith, and how it can turn even the most broken of individuals into something beautiful. Throughout the Gospels, Mary Magdalene is depicted as a loyal and dedicated follower of Jesus, who remained by his side even during his crucifixion.

Despite her significance, Mary Magdalene’s reputation has been marred throughout history. In the Middle Ages, she was often depicted as a repentant prostitute, and many people believe that she was the unnamed woman caught in adultery in the Gospel of John. However, there is no evidence to support this claim, and it is more likely that Mary Magdalene was a wealthy woman who supported Jesus’ ministry with her resources.

Transformed	Devotion	Influence
Mary Magdalene’s transformation from a sinner to a devoted follower of Christ is a testament to the transformative power of faith.	Mary Magdalene was a loyal and dedicated follower of Jesus, who remained by his side even during his crucifixion.	Mary Magdalene played a significant role in the early Christian Church and was one of the first people to witness the resurrection of Jesus.
Redemption	Empowerment	Fidelity
Mary Magdalene’s story shows that no one is beyond redemption, and that even the most broken of individuals can find hope and healing in Christ.	Through her relationship with Jesus, Mary Magdalene was empowered to live a life of purpose and meaning.	Mary Magdalene’s fidelity to Jesus is a powerful example of what it means to be a true disciple and follower of Christ.

Mary Magdalene played a significant role in the early Christian Church and was one of the first people to witness the resurrection of Jesus. Her devotion to Christ, despite the challenges she faced, serves as a powerful example of what it means to be a true disciple. Today, she is remembered as a symbol of hope and redemption, and her story continues to inspire people all over the world.

The Importance of Discipleship in Christian Life

Discipleship is a critical aspect of the Christian life, and it involves much more than just attending church on Sundays. It is a lifelong process of following Jesus, growing in faith, and developing a deeper relationship with God. It is a commitment to live a life that reflects the values and teachings of Christ and to share that love with others.

Discipleship requires intentional effort and a willingness to surrender our lives to God. It involves reading and studying the Bible, prayer, and participating in Christian fellowship. It is through discipleship that we gain a greater understanding of our purpose and identity in Christ, and we are empowered to live out our faith in practical ways.

Furthermore, discipleship is not a solo journey. It is essential to have mentors and fellow believers who can offer guidance, accountability, and support along the way. Being a part of a community of believers is crucial for personal growth and is an opportunity to encourage one another in the faith.

Overall, discipleship is the foundation of Christian life, and it is vital for spiritual growth, maturity, and effective service to God. As believers, it is our responsibility to make disciples and share the gospel message with others, making a positive impact on the world around us.

Growing Closer to God

Growing closer to God is a lifelong journey that requires intentional effort and a willingness to surrender ourselves to His will. Here are three ways to cultivate a deeper relationship with God:

1. Prayer: Prayer is a powerful tool that allows us to communicate with God and express our thoughts and feelings to Him. It is essential to set aside time each day to pray and seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.
2. Reading the Bible: The Bible is the ultimate source of truth and wisdom, and reading it daily is an essential part of growing closer to God. It is through His Word that we gain a deeper understanding of who He is, His love for us, and His plan for our lives.
3. Worship: Worship is a form of expressing our love and adoration for God. It is a way to connect with Him on a deeper level and to give Him the honor and glory that He deserves. Worship can take many forms, including singing, praying, and serving others in His name.

Remember, growing closer to God is not a one-time event, but rather a continual process of surrendering ourselves to His will and seeking to live a life that reflects His love and grace. By incorporating prayer, reading the Bible, and worship into our daily lives, we can cultivate a deeper relationship with Him and experience the peace and joy that comes from knowing Him.

Fellowship and Accountability

• Fellowship with other believers is an important aspect of the Christian life. It allows us to encourage and support each other in our walk with God, and to build lasting relationships based on our shared faith.

• Accountability is another crucial component of discipleship. We need people in our lives who will hold us accountable for our actions and help us stay on the right path. This can be done through regular check-ins, prayer partners, or accountability groups.

• Together, fellowship and accountability can help us grow in our faith and become the people God has called us to be. By surrounding ourselves with other believers who are also striving to follow Jesus, we can spur one another on towards love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24).

Whether it’s through attending church, joining a small group, or simply meeting regularly with a friend, finding ways to build fellowship and accountability into our lives can have a significant impact on our spiritual growth.

Disciple-Making: Spreading the Good News

As Christians, one of our primary responsibilities is to spread the good news of the Gospel to others. This involves more than just telling people about Jesus. It also means making disciples, teaching others what it means to follow Christ and helping them grow in their faith.

Disciple-making is not just the job of pastors and church leaders. It’s something that all believers are called to do. We can make disciples in a variety of ways, such as mentoring, leading Bible studies, and sharing our faith with others.

However, making disciples is not always easy. It can be challenging to know where to start or how to approach someone about their faith. That’s why it’s important to pray for guidance and to rely on the Holy Spirit to lead us as we seek to make disciples.

The Great Commission

Jesus’ final command to his disciples before ascending to heaven was to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This mandate is known as the Great Commission and it remains a central focus of the Christian faith today.

The Great Commission challenges believers to share the gospel message and make disciples who will continue to spread the good news to others. Through this commission, Christians can impact their communities and even the world for Christ.

While the Great Commission may seem like a daunting task, Christians can take comfort in knowing that Jesus promised to be with them always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). With the help of the Holy Spirit, believers can boldly and confidently carry out this important mission.

The Role of Disciple-Makers

Disciple-makers are crucial in fulfilling the Great Commission because they not only spread the Gospel but also mentor and disciple new believers. They serve as guides and examples, providing spiritual support, encouragement, and accountability. Disciple-makers should be intentional in their efforts, seeking to develop meaningful relationships and investing in the lives of those they disciple. They must also rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to transform lives and hearts. As Jesus modeled, disciple-makers should not only teach but also demonstrate a life of obedience to God. By making disciples who make disciples, disciple-makers can impact the world for Christ and advance the Kingdom of God.

Obstacles and Opportunities in Disciple-Making

Disciple-making can be a challenging and rewarding process. One of the biggest obstacles is the lack of commitment from those being discipled. It can be difficult to find people who are willing to invest the time and effort necessary to grow in their faith. Another obstacle is the lack of accountability. Without accountability, it’s easy for people to fall back into old habits and lose sight of their goals.

However, there are also many opportunities for disciple-making. One opportunity is through small groups, where individuals can build relationships and encourage one another. Another opportunity is through mentorship, where a more experienced believer can guide and support a newer believer in their faith journey. Additionally, technology has made it easier than ever to connect with others and share resources.

Ultimately, the success of disciple-making depends on the willingness and openness of both the disciple-maker and the disciple. It requires vulnerability, humility, and a willingness to learn and grow together in faith.

How to Become a Disciple of Christ Today

If you want to become a disciple of Christ today, the first step is to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died on the cross for your sins and rose from the dead on the third day. This belief is the foundation of your faith.

The second step is to repent of your sins and turn away from them. Confess your sins to God and ask for forgiveness, and make a commitment to follow Jesus as your Lord and Savior.

The third step is to commit to following Jesus by reading and studying the Bible, praying, and being part of a Christian community. Find a church where you can learn and grow with other believers, and get involved in serving others and sharing the gospel.

Believe in Jesus as Your Lord and Savior

At the heart of becoming a disciple of Christ is a belief in Him as our Lord and Savior. This involves recognizing that we are sinners in need of salvation and that Jesus is the only way to eternal life.

Believing in Jesus means putting our faith in Him and committing to follow Him. It means acknowledging Him as the Son of God and accepting His sacrifice on the cross as payment for our sins.

As we believe in Jesus, we can experience the forgiveness and grace that comes with a relationship with Him. This belief is the foundation of our journey as disciples and opens the door to a transformed life in Christ.

Frequently Asked Questions