What Does it Mean to be a Disciple?

Disciple:

One who receives instruction from another; a follower who has learned to believe in the truth of the doctrine (teachings) of his teacher

Evangelizing

…or spreading the “Good New” message of Jesus is part of the purpose of Christian life.

“Good News” message

A major part of this “Good News” message is that salvation is open to everyone. We are to love everyone, especially those we have difficulty loving.

The Three Characteristics of a Disciple

In all they were asked to do as disciples, the “students” of Jesus can be characterized in three ways– As followers– As having discipline– As being believers

The characteristics of a disciple can be described in a positive way as follows:

Follower

• follows, trusts the teachings of the teacher, and uses these teachings in their own life as a personal guide

• follows with the full knowledge that the teachings are good for themselves and others

• spreads the teachings so that others can follow

Believing

• believes the message of the teacher

• know the message and develops a relationship of trust and friendship with the teacher

• through the teachings, a disciple comes to know the teacher in a deep, personal way.

Discipline

• has discipline because sometimes following the teachings can be difficult

• transforms the teachings in behaviour, so that they no only listened to the Good News, but lived it!

• A disciple know that the teachings is true and good for themselves, and as such are in control

There could be negative meanings to these characteristics as well…

Follower

• a disciple who blindly follows the teacher, not making their own choices or decision about the teachings.

Believing

• A disciple who doesn’t think about the teachings with their head and their heart. The message may actually harm relationships instead of building them.

Discipline

A disciple who blindly submits to the discipline he/she is asked to follow, even if the message he/she takes to others is unjust.