Discipleship
Summary
The relationship of a learner to a teacher, particularly the commitment to follow Jesus Christ as His student and servant.
☩Jesus' Disciples
Jesus called twelve men to follow Him, leaving their occupations to learn from Him. He taught them publicly and privately, sending them to preach and heal. They witnessed His death, resurrection, and ascension. His last command was to make disciples of all nations.
☩Cost of Discipleship
Jesus declared that whoever does not forsake all cannot be His disciple. Those who would follow Him must deny themselves and take up their cross daily. He warned that disciples must count the cost before committing, as a builder counts the cost before building.
☩Marks of True Disciples
Jesus said, 'If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.' The distinguishing mark of His disciples is love: 'By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.' Fruitfulness also characterizes true disciples.
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Disciple," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Hastings (ed.), "Discipleship," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. I (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).