What is a Disciple?

A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.

Luke 6:40

The secular definition of a disciple is, according to Webster, “One who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another.” Christian discipleship is the lifelong process of following Christ, becoming like Christ, and helping others do the same. There is a significant difference between Christian discipleship and worldly discipleship.

Imagine someone joins a gym and hires a personal trainer. The trainer teaches them how to lift weights, eat properly, and build strength. The person listens, learns, practices the techniques, and gradually improves. That is a picture of secular discipleship: learning skills from someone you admire, so you can become like them in a specific area of life. But biblical discipleship goes much deeper. It is more like having a mentor move into your home, someone who walks with you daily, shapes your character, corrects your attitudes, guides your decisions, and influences every part of your life. A gym trainer may change your body, but Jesus changes your entire life. In the world, a disciple simply learns from a teacher; in Christianity, a disciple gives their whole life to follow a Savior.

In his book, The Cost of Discipleship, Dietrich Bonhoeffer states, “Discipleship means adherence to Christ.” The Puritans had a sharp and compelling view of discipleship as living a life entirely dedicated to Christ. Thomas Watson highlighted that “Christ is not truly valued unless He is valued above all,” emphasizing that a genuine disciple shows Jesus ultimate loyalty by prioritizing Him over every earthly pursuit. John Owen also pointed out that disciples must face sin head-on, warning, “Be killing sin, or sin will be killing you.” For the Puritans, discipleship involves more than just belief, it's about active obedience and spiritual combat.

Living out faith visibly was also central to their beliefs. Richard Baxter stated, “A holy life is the strongest argument for Christianity,” emphasizing that a disciple's life should mirror Christ in every deed. Thomas Brooks noted that, “Example is the most persuasive form of speech,” highlighting the significance of exemplifying faith for others. As John Flavel expressed, “The soul that loves God will follow Him wherever He leads,” indicating that true discipleship arises from love rather than obligation. Collectively, these perspectives depict discipleship as a life characterized by deep devotion, ongoing spiritual effort, evident holiness, and a loving, faithful following of Christ.

And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me.

Luke 9:23

Your shepherd,

Pastor Mark