It’s amazing how today’s idea of a Christian is so different from the Bible’s idea of a Christian.
The word Christian means to be Christ-like—it means to imitate Christ. But how many Christians truly imitate Christ?
Christ’s love was so deep and His obedience so strong that He gave Himself to be beaten, battered, humiliated, crucified on a cross, and even asked the Father to forgive the very people who did it to Him.
How deep is your love for others? How strong is your obedience to the Father?
Jesus delivered people from demons and healed all the sick who came to Him. In Mark 16:15–18, it says that a believer in Christ will preach the gospel, cast out demons, speak in new tongues, and lay hands on the sick so that they will be healed.
Do you do these things in your normal life? Do you live the normal Christian life?
Since today’s world has redefined the word Christian to basically mean anyone who attends church services—regardless of how they live—we like to use another word: disciple.
The word disciple means “apprentice” or “student.” It’s someone in training who is learning to imitate their master.
Lets go over some scriptures to help us understand what it means to be a Disciple Remember these questions when thinking about the scripture:
- Questions to consider during scripture discussion.
- 1) What does this scripture say about God?
- 2) What does this scripture say about me/man?
- 3) Is there something in this scripture to obey?
- 4) How do we obey it?
- 5) Is there a sin in this scripture to avoid?
- 6) Is there something in this scripture to put hope in?
📖 Scripture Discussion – What is a Disciple?
Matthew 4:18–22 (NLT)
Jesus calls Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him, and they leave everything immediately.
Note: A disciple responds to Jesus’ call without delay, willing to leave their comfort zone.
Matthew 16:24–27 (NLT)
Jesus teaches that following Him means denying yourself, taking up your cross, and losing your life for His sake.
Note: True discipleship costs everything, but it leads to eternal life.
Matthew 10:34–39 (NLT)
Jesus warns that following Him will bring division, even among families.
Note: Allegiance to Christ must come before all relationships and comforts.
Luke 14:25–35 (NLT)
Jesus compares discipleship to counting the cost before building a tower.
Note: Discipleship requires full commitment and the willingness to give up everything.
Matthew 28:18–20 (NLT)
The Great Commission commands making disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them to obey all Christ’s commands.
Note: Disciples are called to make more disciples.
John 15:8 (NLT)
When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.
Note: Fruitfulness—changed lives and obedience—marks a true disciple.
Romans 8:28–29 (NLT)
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them. For God knew His people in advance, and He chose them to become like His Son, so that His Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.
Note: God’s ultimate goal is to conform us to the image of Jesus. Discipleship is that process.
📖 Additional Scriptures – What is a Disciple?
John 12:42–48 (NLT)
Even among leaders, some believed in Jesus but feared openly confessing Him.
Note: A disciple must be willing to stand for truth publicly, regardless of fear.
Matthew 10:24–25 (NLT)
Students are not greater than their teacher; expect to be treated as He was treated.
Note: Discipleship includes facing rejection and persecution.
Mark 8:34–37 (NLT)
Following Jesus means giving up your own way, taking up your cross, and valuing eternal life over worldly gain.
Note: The worth of your soul is greater than anything this world can offer.
John 13:34–35 (NLT)
Love one another as Jesus loved you; this love will prove to the world that you are His disciples.
Note: Love is the badge of true discipleship.
Acts 2:42–47 (NLT)
The early church devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, prayer, and generosity.
Note: Discipleship grows in community, not isolation.
Acts 14:21–22 (NLT)
Paul and Barnabas strengthen disciples, encouraging them to remain in the faith despite hardships.
Note: Disciples need perseverance in trials.
Matthew 5:14–16 (NLT)
You are the light of the world; let your good deeds shine for God’s glory.
Note: Discipleship is lived out publicly.
Hebrews 10:24–25 (NLT)
Encourage one another and meet regularly.
Note: Discipleship requires consistent fellowship.
Colossians 1:27–29 (NLT)
We proclaim Christ, teaching with wisdom to present everyone mature in Him.
Note: Discipleship includes helping others grow spiritually.
2 Timothy 2:2 (NLT)
Teach others who will also teach others.
Note: Discipleship multiplies through faithful teaching.
Mark 16:15–20 (NLT)
Go into all the world, preach the Good News, cast out demons, speak in tongues, and heal the sick.
Note: The normal Christian life includes spiritual authority and supernatural works.
Key Passage
Romans 8:28–29 (NLT)
God works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. His plan is for us to be conformed to the image of His Son.
Application: Read the Gospels and study the Master—you will see what it means to be like Him.
Teaching – Christian vs. Disciple
- Romans 8:29 – God’s goal is Christlikeness.
- Christian is mentioned only 3 times in the New Testament; Disciple over 250 times.
- Being in church doesn’t automatically make someone a disciple.
- Disciples learn by doing, not just by listening.
- Mistakes are part of growth—don’t fear them.
- Baby disciples don’t need to know everything, but after years of following Christ, you should be able to baptize, cast out demons, and share the Gospel confidently.
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