MONDAY
December 31
Who Is a Disciple?
The word disciple comes from the Greek word mathetes, meaning "learner," "apprentice," or "adherent." It depicts a person whose mind is set on a purpose. In the New Testament, it is used mostly of Jesus' disciples, especially in the Gospels. It refers to "an apprentice or pupil attached to a teacher or movement; one whose allegiance is to the instruction and commitments of the teacher or movement."—Paul J. Achtemeier, ed., Harper's Bible Dictionary (New York: Harper San Francisco, 1985), p. 222. A disciple, then, is a pupil or learner who is apprenticed to a master or teacher for the purpose of receiving instruction. There can be no disciple without a teacher. The New Testament term disciple is used primarily of Jesus' disciples.
Discipleship involves willingness to follow commands and to make commitments. What does Jesus mean, and what is He calling for, in His statement to the crowds, "If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple" (Luke 14:25, 26, NASB)? How are these words applied to us in our daily life?
If Christians are disciples, to whom are modern Christians apprenticed? Who should have the allegiance and commitment of Christians? The church? The doctrines? A charismatic preacher who does a good job of teaching and instructing? Or Jesus? What light does 1 Corinthians 1:10-17, especially verse 12, shed on this matter?
In the New Testament, a disciple was one whom Jesus taught and who was committed to following Him. Is it any different today? Read again Jesus' words in Luke, as quoted above. How well does that picture fit you? Are you truly a disciple of Christ? What does your answer tell you about yourself and your commitment to the Lord?
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