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Words of Life - Disciple
Series: Words of LifeWORDS OF LIFE
“But you, beloved, ought to remember the words that were spoken beforehand….” / Jude 17
DISCIPLE
di-si-pel
1. A person who subscribes to the teachings of a master and assists in spreading them.
2. Any active adherent, as of a movement or philosophy.
3. One of the companions of Christ.
All thee of the above definitions are needed to provide a fuller understanding of Biblical discipleship.
> Questions & Observations For Discussion ?
1. Etymology: Greek word mathetes (a learner - - from math, indicating thought accompanied by endeavor.
The Latin words discere (to learn) and discipulus (pupil) which yielded the Old English word discipul.
Other words in the same family: discern … discipline … disciplinary … discipleship.
2. In Biblical times one might be a disciple of Moses (Jn.9:28) … of the Pharisees (Mt.22:15-16) … of John (Mt.9:14).
¡ The focus of today’s word study is on those who were/are disciples OF JESUS.
Sometimes the word is used to describe the twelve apostles. – Mt.10:1 & Lk.22:11
It is also used to describe a great multitude of followers. – Lk.6:17
Some “disciples” appear to be primarily “curiosity-seekers”, lacking depth and commitment. – Jn.6:66
In the book of Acts we read of “the disciples” (6:1) and “the congregation of disciples” (6:2 & 7).
cf. Acts 14:20, 22, 28; 15:10 and 19:1
3. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR BEING A REAL DISCIPLE OF JESUS?
A true disciple must be not only a follower, but also a serious student (learner). – Mt.10:29 & Eph.4:20-21
A true disciple must abide in God’s Word. – Jn.8:31
True disciples must display genuine love for another. – Jn.13:35
True disciples are obedient. – Mt.7:21 & 24 and Acts 6:7 & 5:29
A true disciple must bear fruit. – Jn.15:7-8
Can one be a true disciple and not bear the fruit of the Spirit? – Gal.5:22-24; 2Pet.1:5-11 and Mt.7:17-21
Can one be a true disciple and not care about seeking the lost? – Mk.1:17; Mt.28:19-20 and 2Tim.2:1-2
True disciples must be willing to sacrifice for the cause of Christ. – Lk.14:26-27 & 33; Mt.20:26 and 2Tim.2:3-4
What does it mean to “eat His flesh and drink His blood”? - Jn.6:54 & 60 & 66
cf. Jn.4:34 with Jn.12:24-25
True disciples must strive to imitate Christ. – Lk.6:40; Jn.13:15; Acts 11:26; Philp.2:5; 1Pet.2:21f and 1Jn.2:6
4. Can one be a “secret” disciple? – Jn.19:28 and Mt.27:57
Notwithstanding extreme circumstances, can a true disciple live in isolation of His brothers and sisters in Christ?
Keep a list in your study Bible of various exhortations about the importance of practicing “the one-another way”. e.g. Gal.6:2; Js.5:16; Eph.4:32; Heb.10:24 and Ro.12:9
