Discipleship: Defining The Terms

If you asked ten different people to explain what they think it means to be a disciple I'm certain you'd get at least five different answers. Several years ago I heard high school students were surveyed and ask several questions regarding biblical topics. One question was, "Who were the disciples?" Not knowing the answer, many students commented by answering that the disciples were the wife's of the apostles.

This lack of understanding regarding discipleship is not only evident among our high school students but it is also apparent within many of our local churches.

Let's examine what discipleship is not. First, discipleship is not a program or event. Second, discipleship is not for a limited time. Third, discipleship is not limited to new converts. No, discipleship is a way of life, it's for our whole life, and it's every believer for everyday of their life.

Jesus said in Luke 9:23, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me."

Simply stated, discipleship means learning from and following a teacher. I'm convinced the most important evidence of God's work in the world is in the existence of committed disciples. It's important to note that discipleship is not an option, it's actually a command.

Listen to Jesus' words;

19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20  Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matt 28:19-20.)

According to Jesus conversions are not enough. We think we're doing kingdom business when we win others to Christ. Winning others to Christ is only part of what we're commissioned to in Matthew 28. Leading others to Christ is really just the beginning of fulfilling the Great Commission. The biggest and most difficult task is making disciples.

QUESTION: If discipleship is at the core of of God's work in the world why is it that it's not at the core of what local churches focus on?