Learn more about Disciples

Introduction to Disciples

The word “disciples” refers to learners, followers, or students who attach themselves to a teacher or master to learn from them and emulate their teachings. In the biblical context, disciples are most commonly recognized as the followers of Jesus Christ, particularly the twelve men He personally selected during His earthly ministry. However, the term can also refer to a broader group of followers, including both men and women, who were devoted to Jesus and His message. The idea of discipleship is deeply embedded in the fabric of both Jewish and early Christian traditions, reflecting commitment, obedience, and transformation.

Disciples Pronunciation

“Disciples” is pronounced as duh-SAI-puhlz, with emphasis on the second syllable of the root word “disciple.” Singular: disciple; Plural: disciples.

Disciples in the Bible

The term "disciple" appears numerous times in the New Testament, especially within the Gospels and the Book of Acts. Key references and roles include:

• The Twelve Disciples (Apostles): These were the core group of Jesus’ followers, personally called by Him. They are named in passages like Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, and Luke 6:13-16. They include Peter, James, John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the Zealot), Thaddaeus (also called Judas son of James), and Judas Iscariot.
• Wider Group of Disciples: Luke 10:1 mentions Jesus appointing seventy (or seventy-two) other disciples and sending them out in pairs to preach and heal. This broader circle reflects the inclusive and expanding nature of Jesus’ ministry.
• Female Disciples: Luke 8:1-3 and other passages affirm that many women followed Jesus, supported His ministry, and were present at His crucifixion and resurrection. These included Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and others.
• Disciples after Jesus’ Resurrection: In the Book of Acts, the term continues to refer to followers of Jesus. For instance, Acts 6:1 references "the number of disciples increasing," and Acts 9:26 discusses Saul (Paul) attempting to join the disciples in Jerusalem.

Related Themes and Meanings to Disciples

Several key theological and practical themes are connected to the concept of discipleship:

• Learning and Obedience: A disciple is not merely a student but someone who adopts the teachings and lifestyle of the master (Luke 6:40).
• Following Christ: Discipleship implies leaving behind old ways of life and committing fully to Jesus (Luke 9:23-24).
• Community and Fellowship: Disciples often traveled, lived, and learned in communal settings, reflecting the early Christian model of the church (Acts 2:42).
• Mission and Evangelism: The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) commands disciples to make more disciples, baptizing and teaching them to observe Christ’s commandments.
• Transformation and Sanctification: The goal of discipleship is spiritual maturity, growing into the likeness of Christ (Romans 8:29).

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Disciples

• The word “disciple” appears over 260 times in the New Testament, while the word “Christian” appears only three times (Acts 11:26; Acts 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16). This indicates the primary identity of early believers was as disciples of Jesus.
• The Greek word for disciple is μαθητής (mathētēs), meaning "learner" or "student."
• Jesus often challenged would-be disciples with difficult teachings (e.g., John 6:60-66), revealing that true discipleship involves deep commitment and sacrifice.
• The early church in Acts referred to all believers as disciples, showing that discipleship was considered the norm for all Christians—not just an elite few.
• In rabbinic Judaism, discipleship was a well-known institution, where students would follow a rabbi to learn Torah and ethical behavior. Jesus adopted and deepened this model with a focus on the Kingdom of God and personal transformation.

The Call and Cost of Discipleship

Jesus’ teachings about discipleship often emphasized the cost of following Him. He required His disciples to forsake family, possessions, and even their own lives (Luke 14:26-33). This radical call was not metaphorical but literal in many cases, as many early disciples faced persecution and martyrdom. Yet, the reward was intimacy with Christ and a role in His eternal Kingdom.

Conclusion

Discipleship is at the heart of Christian identity and mission. To be a disciple of Jesus is to embrace a lifelong journey of learning, transformation, service, and witness. The original disciples laid the foundation for the global church through their witness and teaching, and every Christian today is called to walk in their footsteps, continuing the Great Commission given by Christ Himself.