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What is a Disciple?
Completion requirements
In the broadest sense, a disciple is someone who actively follows and learns from a leader, teacher, or philosophy. In a Christian context, discipleship takes on a deeply personal and transformational significance. It is not just an academic pursuit or a statement of respect. It is an immersive life journey following Jesus Christ and aligning your life with his teachings and example.
Disciples are people who are walking with Jesus, learning how to live from him. You are learning how to live your life like Jesus would live it if he was you. Disciples are apprentices to the Master Jesus.
- Megan Koch
There is a common misconception in church circles that discipleship is an optional, advanced course for the select few who desire a deeper dive into their faith. Some might see it as a program, a series of classes, or a higher level of commitment available to the ‘serious. This perspective inadvertently creates an in-group and out-group within the church community and positions discipleship as a choice rather than a core aspect of Christian life.
Rather, all Christians are disciples of Jesus. Discipleship is universal and integral to all who profess faith in Jesus Christ. Discipleship is an apprenticeship, a continual learning process from Jesus himself. It is our fundamental response to Jesus’ call to “Come, follow me” (Luke 18:22). This call was extended to ordinary people in the Gospels—fishermen, tax collectors, and others who were not known to be religious experts. They were distinguished only by their willingness to follow.
Jesus’ invitation to follow him as a disciple was not conditional upon prior qualifications or an extensive period of learning. The moment you decide to follow Jesus, you are immediately “saved and sent.” There is an immediate transition from being a recipient of Jesus’ grace to becoming an ambassador of his love and teachings. A disciple, therefore, does not wait to be perfectly equipped but starts the journey of discipleship at the point of salvation.
There's no waiting. You don't have to learn a certain amount with Jesus before you qualify to do it, because none of the power comes from you. It all comes from him.
- Megan Koch
A core aspect of being a disciple is the focus on learning from Jesus, not merely about him. As believers, we are in an intimate relationship with Christ where learning is not just an accumulation of knowledge but the formation of our character and spirit. The Bible is not just a text to be studied but a living word that interacts with us, transforming us from the inside out. A disciple engages with scripture not as a scholar who seeks information but as a follower who seeks transformation.
Discipleship is not a solitary endeavor but is deeply embedded in community. Disciples are called to learn in fellowship with other believers, growing together, and challenging each other towards greater faithfulness to Jesus’ teachings. The church community plays a critical role in nurturing and supporting each one of us on our discipleship journey. It is in the daily interactions, the shared struggles, and the collective worship that disciples find strength and encouragement to continue following Jesus.
To be a disciple is to embrace a lifestyle that reflects the teachings and character of Jesus. It means to actively seek to replicate his love, compassion, and humility in our daily lives. It is a commitment that goes beyond formal study or church attendance. It is a lifelong process of being shaped and reshaped into the likeness of Christ. Discipleship is about making the teachings of Jesus tangible in the world through acts of service, love, and witness.
The only qualification for being a disciple is a willingness to know Jesus and follow his teachings. It is about placing full trust in him and aligning your actions with his example. There is no additional certification needed. The transformative power comes from Jesus and is accessible to all who choose to follow him.