What is a disciple, anyway?

The term "disciple" is frequently used in Christian circles, but what does it truly mean? At its core, a disciple is more than just a follower or student; a disciple is someone who is dedicated to learning, growing, and transforming through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

A Follower of Christ

A disciple is first and foremost a follower of Christ. Jesus calls us to follow Him, not just in word but in action. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” This call to discipleship requires a commitment to live as Jesus lived, embracing His teachings, and putting them into practice in every aspect of life.

Being a follower of Christ isn't passive. It's an active pursuit of His will, seeking to embody His love, grace, and truth in our daily lives. This requires surrendering our own desires and ambitions to follow the path that Jesus lays out for us.

A Learner and Student

The word "disciple" comes from the Greek word mathētēs, which means "learner" or "student." In this sense, a disciple is someone who is constantly learning from Jesus. This learning isn't limited to acquiring knowledge; it involves growing in wisdom, understanding, and spiritual maturity. Jesus emphasizes this in Matthew 11:29, where He says, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

A disciple learns by immersing themselves in the teachings of Jesus, as found in Scripture, and allowing those teachings to shape their thoughts, actions, and character. It is a lifelong process of transformation, guided by the Holy Spirit, as we strive to become more like Christ.

A Disciple-Maker

Discipleship isn't just about personal growth; it’s also about making disciples of others. Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands us to, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

This directive highlights that a true disciple not only follows and learns from Jesus but also takes on the responsibility of teaching and guiding others in their faith journey. Discipleship is a multiplication process—those who have been transformed by Jesus are called to help others experience that same transformation.

A Servant and Witness

In addition to being a follower, learner, and disciple-maker, a disciple is also a servant and witness. Jesus modeled servanthood throughout His ministry, stating in Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” A disciple is called to serve others with humility, putting their needs above our own and reflecting the love of Christ in tangible ways.

Furthermore, a disciple is a witness to the world. Acts 1:8 says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” As disciples, we are called to testify to the life-changing power of Jesus in our own lives and share that testimony with others.

A Life of Sacrifice and Commitment

Finally, being a disciple requires sacrifice and unwavering commitment. In Luke 9:23, Jesus says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” This is a call to die to ourselves, to give up our comforts, desires, and even our lives if necessary, for the sake of Christ and His kingdom.

This level of commitment is not easy, but it is the essence of true discipleship. The apostle Paul exemplified this in his own life, writing in Galatians 2:20, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

Wrapping It Up...

In defining a disciple, we see that it involves much more than simply believing in Jesus. A disciple is a follower, a learner, a disciple-maker, a servant, and a witness. It is someone who is fully committed to living out the teachings of Jesus, serving others, and helping others to grow in their faith. Discipleship is a journey of transformation, marked by sacrifice, perseverance, and the pursuit of Christlikeness. As we seek to live as disciples, let us remember Jesus' promise in John 8:31-32: “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”