Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Disciple

A disciple is a person who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another, such as a pupil, adherent, or follower of a teacher, leader, or philosophical system. The term derives from the Latin discipulus, meaning "learner" or "pupil," which entered Middle English via Old English discipul and early French disciple, emphasizing a relationship of instruction and emulation. In religious contexts, particularly , a disciple denotes a dedicated committed to imitating and propagating the teachings of Jesus Christ, exemplified by the Twelve Apostles who formed his closest circle and were tasked with advancing his mission. This concept extends beyond mere belief to active learning, transformation, and , distinguishing disciples from casual adherents by their holistic devotion to the master's example and directives. Historically, the idea of discipleship traces to ancient Near Eastern traditions of master-pupil bonds, where learners internalized and extended a teacher's , influencing its application in and early Christian communities.

Etymology and Core Definition

Linguistic Origins

The English word "disciple" derives from Old English discipul, a direct borrowing from Latin discipulus, denoting a "," "," or "" who learns by adhering to another's teachings. This form entered English before the , primarily through in biblical contexts, where it translated the Greek New Testament term mathētēs (μαθητής), meaning a learner or adherent under instruction; native equivalents like leorningcniht ("learning youth") or þegn ("retainer") were more common prior to this adoption. By around 1300, the term had evolved in to encompass any " of a or example," extending beyond strictly religious usage. The Latin discipulus itself has an uncertain origin, though it is traditionally linked to the verb discere ("to learn"), which stems from Proto-Italic dikskō, a reduplicated form of Proto-Indo-European *deḱ- ("to take, accept"), implying the reception of knowledge akin to grasping or accepting . This root connects discere to cognates like didáskō ("to teach"), highlighting a conceptual bridge between learning and teaching in ; related English words include "," originally denoting instructional training. An alternative etymology proposes discipulus from a compound *discipere ("to grasp intellectually"), blending dis- ("apart") with capere ("to take," from PIE *kap- "to grasp"), though the semantic fit and unexplained -pulus render this debated among linguists. In biblical , mathētēs derives from manthanō ("to learn"), rooted in PIE *mendh- ("to learn" through and effort), emphasizing active rather than passive ; this parallels the Latin sense but underscores a cultural emphasis on emulation in Hellenistic and traditions. Semantically, both roots prioritize causal transmission of knowledge from to , with "disciple" retaining this learner- dynamic across linguistic evolutions, distinct from mere "" by implying personal .

General and Historical Meanings

In general usage, a disciple denotes a committed follower or student who adheres to and propagates the doctrines of a teacher, leader, or philosophical system, often involving personal discipline and emulation of the master's methods. The concept emphasizes active learning and loyalty rather than passive reception, deriving from the Latin discipulus, signifying a pupil under instruction. Historically, the term's secular applications trace to ancient educational and philosophical traditions, where disciples formed close-knit groups around mentors to pursue intellectual and ethical inquiry. In , for instance, philosophers such as (c. 570–495 BCE) gathered disciples who lived communally, adhering to strict rules of silence, vegetarianism, and mathematical study to achieve wisdom. Similarly, (c. 428–348 BCE) instructed disciples at his in , founded around 387 BCE, focusing on , , and ideals, with (384–322 BCE) as a prominent example who later established his own for peripatetic teaching. These arrangements resembled apprenticeships, where disciples internalized teachings through observation, debate, and practical application, predating formalized universities and influencing Western . In Roman contexts, discipulus extended to rhetorical and legal training, with figures like (106–43 BCE) mentoring disciples in and statesmanship, emphasizing and over mere knowledge acquisition. By the medieval period, secular usages persisted in artisanal guilds and scholastic circles, where disciples apprenticed under masters in crafts or liberal arts, committing years to mastery—typically seven for basic skills—before independence, as documented in guild charters from 12th-century . This model underscored causal hierarchies: effective discipleship required submission to proven expertise, yielding societal benefits through skill transmission, distinct from egalitarian modern interpretations that dilute hierarchical fidelity.

Religious Contexts

Christianity

In Christianity, a disciple is defined as a follower of Jesus Christ who believes in his doctrine, relies on his sacrificial atonement, adopts his spirit, and seeks to imitate his example in life and conduct. The term derives from the Greek mathētēs (μαθητής), meaning a learner or pupil under a teacher, reflecting the relational dynamic of instruction and obedience central to Jesus' ministry as recorded in the New Testament Gospels. This concept emphasizes active adherence to Christ's teachings rather than mere intellectual assent, involving worship, service, and witness to his message. Jesus selected twelve primary disciples, often referred to as the Twelve Apostles, to form the core of his inner circle during his approximately three-year public ministry from around 27 to 30 AD. Their names, as listed in the (Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, Luke 6:14-16), include Simon (called Peter), Andrew his brother, , John his brother, , Bartholomew, Thomas, the , , Thaddaeus (also called Judas son of James), , and , who later betrayed . These men were predominantly fishermen, a , and possibly a political activist, from ordinary backgrounds to demonstrate that divine calling transcends or prior qualifications. They accompanied , witnessed his and teachings, and received direct instruction, forming the foundation for the early Christian movement after his and resurrection circa 30 AD. While the Twelve held a unique apostolic role—meaning "one sent out" in (apostolos, ἀπόστολος)—to authenticate and propagate message, the term disciple applies more broadly to all who follow Christ. Not every disciple was an ; apostles were specifically commissioned eyewitnesses to the tasked with establishing , whereas disciples encompass the wider body of believers committed to ' mission. This distinction appears in texts, such as Acts 6:1-7, where are selected from among disciples for service, and in the Epistles, where identifies himself as an apostle but addresses general disciples in churches. The imperative to expand discipleship is encapsulated in the , recorded in :19-20, where the resurrected instructs his followers: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the , teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." Issued around 30 AD to the Eleven remaining apostles on a mountain in , this command prioritizes disciple-making as the central task of the , involving , (symbolizing initiation into the community), and ongoing instruction in obedience to Christ's ethical and doctrinal standards. Historical fulfillment is evident in the rapid growth of early Christian communities, from approximately 120 disciples in post-Pentecost (Acts 1:15) to thousands across the by the late first century, driven by apostolic preaching and local teaching. In contemporary , discipleship retains this biblical framework, focusing on personal transformation through Scripture study, prayer, and communal accountability, though interpretations vary by denomination without altering the core mandate.

Judaism and Early Influences

In ancient , the concept of a disciple, known as a talmid (תַּלְמִיד) from the Hebrew root lamad meaning "to learn," denoted a committed student who not only acquired knowledge but sought to emulate the teacher's character, conduct, and application of . Biblical precedents for this model appear in the prophetic tradition, such as the relationship between and around the 9th century BCE, where Elisha served as Elijah's attendant, pouring water for rituals and inheriting his prophetic after demonstrating unwavering loyalty during Elijah's ascension. This dynamic paralleled earlier mentor-successor pairs like and , emphasizing practical service, observation of the master's life, and transmission of divine authority rather than mere intellectual transmission. By the Second Temple period (c. 516 BCE–70 CE), discipleship evolved into a more structured system within emerging rabbinic circles, where promising young men, often selected after rigorous early education from ages 6–10, attached themselves to a (rav) as talmidim. These disciples traveled with their teacher, observing practices, dietary habits, and interpretive methods to internalize observance holistically, with the aim of becoming independent interpreters capable of ordaining successors. Unlike passive learning, this involved total devotion, including menial tasks to "walk in the dust of the rabbi," fostering a lineage of sages documented in texts like the , compiled around 200 CE, which records chains of transmission from figures such as Hillel and . This Jewish framework profoundly shaped early Christian understandings of discipleship, as of Nazareth, operating within 1st-century Jewish culture, gathered talmidim who mirrored rabbinic models by forsaking occupations to follow itinerantly and replicate his teachings and miracles. However, divergences emerged: Jewish talmidim typically transitioned to rabbinic status, whereas ' followers were called to perpetual imitation without independent authority, reflecting a messianic rather than replication. Prophetic echoes, like Elijah's mantle-passing, informed portrayals of , underscoring Judaism's causal role in defining discipleship as relational over abstract .

Other Religions

In Buddhism, a disciple, often termed śrāvaka (Sanskrit for "hearer") or sāvaka (Pali), refers to a follower who receives and comprehends the teachings of or subsequent masters, pursuing through direct instruction. Lay disciples formally commit by taking refuge in the Three Jewels—the Buddha, (teachings), and (community)—and observing the Five Precepts, which prohibit harming living beings, taking what is not given, , false speech, and intoxicants. This relationship emphasizes personal responsibility, with the disciple actively seeking guidance to overcome ignorance and attain nirvana, as evidenced in early texts like the where gathered disciples through generosity and doctrinal exposition. In , the disciple is known as shishya, engaged in the guru-shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition), a hierarchical bond where the guru imparts , rituals, and esoteric wisdom, often in residential settings like ashrams. This relationship, rooted in Vedic texts such as the (circa 800–200 BCE), demands absolute surrender () from the shishya, who serves the guru in exchange for () and transmission of mantras or philosophies, fostering (). Scholarly analyses highlight its polyvalent nature, encompassing intellectual, emotional, and devotional dimensions, distinct from mere academic mentorship by prioritizing transformative purity and lifelong loyalty. Within , particularly , the disciple (murid, from for "one who desires") submits to a spiritual master (murshid or shaykh), pledging obedience (bay'ah) to navigate the mystical path (tariqa) toward divine union (fana). This master-disciple dynamic, formalized in orders like the or Qadiri since the medieval period (e.g., 12th-century texts by ), involves rigorous ethical training, (remembrance of God), and oversight to purify the (ego), with historical records noting s' roles in propagating tariqas across regions like by the 14th century. Core traits for a murid include repentance, contentment, and unwavering adherence, ensuring alignment with while advancing esoteric knowledge. In , every adherent is inherently a Sikh—derived from shishya meaning "disciple" or "learner"—committed to the teachings of the ten human Gurus (1469–1708 CE) and the eternal scripture. This discipleship entails daily recitation of scriptures, ethical living per the Maryada code (formalized 1936), and service (seva), rejecting ritualism for direct devotion to one God (), as (1469–1539) emphasized unattached pursuit of truth amid worldly duties. Confucianism features disciples (tu or followers) of (551–479 BCE), with historical accounts recording 77 who fully grasped his ethical doctrines on (benevolence) and (ritual propriety), influencing statecraft and education in imperial China. , by contrast, less formalizes a disciple structure, prioritizing individual harmony with the Dao through texts like the (circa 6th century BCE), though Laozi's early followers emulated spontaneous wisdom over structured .

Secular and Philosophical Usages

In Politics and Ideology

In politics and ideology, the term "disciple" denotes individuals who emulate and propagate the doctrines, tactics, or leadership paradigms of a foundational political thinker or leader, typically demonstrating intense loyalty and often adapting those principles to new contexts. This secular application parallels mentorship structures but emphasizes ideological fidelity over mere affiliation, fostering movements through personal devotion and doctrinal extension. Vladimir Lenin exemplified this as a disciple of , radicalized by his brother 's 1887 execution for plotting against Alexander III, after which he immersed himself in and other Marxist texts, developing to emphasize a disciplined vanguard party for , culminating in the ' October 1917 overthrow of the . Abraham positioned himself as a disciple of , the Party's architect, adhering to Clay's American System of protective tariffs, , and gradual anti-slavery measures; won ten consecutive congressional elections in Ohio's Western Reserve by leveraging this alignment, even invoking it after the ' 1850s collapse to justify his formation. Niccolò Machiavelli's (1532) inspired disciples in , prioritizing power acquisition and maintenance over ; subsequent thinkers and rulers, from 19th-century nationalists to 20th-century strategists, adopted his amoral counsel on and , influencing fields like where state survival trumps ethical constraints. In 20th-century libertarianism, economist acted as a disciple of , applying her Objectivist tenets of and unregulated markets—outlined in (1957)—to policy as Chairman from 1987 to 2006, advocating low interest rates and deregulation to prioritize individual productivity over collective redistribution. Such discipleship often generates schisms, as adaptations diverge from originals—evident in Trotsky's critique of Stalinist deviations from Leninist orthodoxy—yet sustains ideological continuity by institutionalizing core tenets through successor cadres.

In Education and Mentorship

In educational contexts, a disciple refers to a learner who engages in an intensive, imitative relationship with a teacher or mentor, aiming not only to acquire but to adopt the master's methods, habits, and through close observation and practice. This differs from a mere , who may receive instruction passively, or a mentee in formal programs, where guidance is often structured and time-limited; discipleship emphasizes prolonged immersion and personal transformation. Philosopher characterized a disciple as "someone who has decided to be with another person—under appropriate conditions—in order to become capable of doing what that person does or to become what he or she is," highlighting the apprenticeship-like nature of the dynamic. Historically, discipleship manifested in philosophical lineages, such as the chain from to (c. 428–348 BCE) to (384–322 BCE), where pupils resided with or closely followed their mentors, debating ideas daily and internalizing their approaches to inquiry. , for instance, founded the around 387 BCE as a communal space for disciples to pursue dialectical reasoning under his influence, fostering successors who advanced systematic thought. Similar patterns appeared in apprenticeships across trades and arts; Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475–1564) served as a disciple to in 1488, absorbing techniques through hands-on replication rather than isolated lessons, which propelled his mastery in and . These relationships underscore causal mechanisms of skill transmission: direct modeling accelerates competence by embedding that lectures alone cannot convey. In modern education, discipleship informs specialized mentorship models, particularly in fields requiring holistic expertise like or creative disciplines, though the term is less formalized outside informal or philosophical discussions. For example, in programs, advisors may cultivate "disciples" through co-authored research and shared projects, mirroring historical immersion to build independent thinkers; a 2023 analysis noted that such intensive advising correlates with higher rates among protégés, as measured by filings and publications. Distinctions persist: while apprenticeships focus on vocational skills (e.g., medieval systems training craftsmen via replication), discipleship extends to character formation, as seen in executive coaching where mentors model under pressure. Empirical studies on efficacy, such as those tracking long-term outcomes in fields, reveal that disciple-like bonds—characterized by mutual and extended timelines—yield 20-30% greater career advancement compared to transactional advising, attributing gains to internalized and networks. However, scalability limits widespread adoption in mass systems, which prioritize standardized curricula over personalized emulation.

Media and Cultural Representations

Music

Disciple is an American and metal band formed in 1992 by high school friends in , with Kevin Young as the founding frontman and primary songwriter. The group emerged from the scene, blending riffs and energy with explicitly faith-based addressing themes of struggle, , and discipleship. Over three decades, Disciple has released 12 studio albums and 3 EPs, achieving 15 number-one singles on Christian rock charts, selling hundreds of thousands of records, and earning two Dove Awards alongside multiple nominations. The band's lineup has evolved, with core members including Kevin Young on lead vocals, Josiah Prince on guitar, on guitar, and Joey West on drums as of the mid-2020s. Early iterations featured Brad Noah on guitar and Tim Barrett on drums, reflecting shifts toward a more aggressive nu-metal and sound in the late and 2000s. Disciple's music has toured extensively worldwide, headlining since the late and appearing on platforms like ESPN's Live, programming, and commercials for shows such as . Key albums include This Might Sting a Little (1999), which marked their breakthrough with raw, energetic tracks; Scars Remain (2006), emphasizing personal testimony through aggressive instrumentation; and recent releases like Skeleton Psalms (2023), produced in-house and featuring singles such as "Resurrecting Reasons." Their discography demonstrates versatility, incorporating pop-punk, ska, and worship elements while maintaining a commitment to unapologetic Christian messaging that critiques cultural complacency. Critics in Christian music outlets have praised Disciple for sustaining relevance amid genre shifts, though their overt evangelistic content has occasionally drawn scrutiny in broader rock contexts for prioritizing doctrinal fidelity over mainstream appeal.

Literature, Film, and Games

In literature, depictions of disciples often center on themes of devotion, , and personal transformation, frequently drawing from historical or religious narratives reimagined in . For instance, in by , the protagonist encounters and his followers during the occupation of Judea, portraying disciples as witnesses to miraculous events that catalyze redemption and faith amid . Similarly, novels like by and (2005) fictionalize the early Christian apostles as resilient figures evading persecution post-, emphasizing and in a hostile empire. Such portrayals extend to modern fantasy and progression genres, where disciple-apprentice dynamics drive plots of and power inheritance. In web novels like those in the "disciple-raising" subgenre, protagonists often mentor disciples who inherit skills or sects, as seen in series featuring sword saints or empresses as pupils under a , highlighting hierarchical and risks in immortal worlds. In film, the disciple archetype explores unyielding pursuit of mastery and its psychological toll. The Disciple (2020), directed by , follows Sharad Nerurkar, a Mumbai-based vocalist dedicated to under his late Savkar, spanning decades of rigorous training, performances, and disillusionment as commercial pressures erode traditional purity, culminating in an over unattained excellence. Premiering at the on September 4, 2020, the film received acclaim for its authentic portrayal of artistic discipline, earning a 96% approval rating on from 56 reviews. Other examples include The Devil's Disciple (1959), an adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's play directed by , where plays Dick Dudgeon, a rebellious colonist who sacrifices himself in place of a minister during the , subverting clerical discipleship with ironic defiance against British authority. In (2022), directed by , portrays , a Montana boxer who, after a near-fatal accident in 1986, converts to Catholicism and becomes a despite , embodying discipleship as gritty perseverance and ministerial service until his death in 2017. In , disciples represent recruitable followers or evolved apprentices in management and mechanics, often tied to -building or mentorship progression. (2022), developed by Massive Monster, casts the player as a lamb vessel leading a against bishops; followers are indoctrinated, leveled to 10, and ascended via the Ritual of Discipleship to handle advanced tasks like resource generation or sin rituals, enabling expansion in a structure blending combat and base-building. The update on January 16, 2024, introduced disciple leveling with sinful traits for enhanced loyalty and abilities. Mentor-disciple bonds also feature prominently in narrative-driven titles, such as Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (2004), where The Boss trains Naked Snake in and before her sacrificial defection, forging a legacy of tactical inheritance amid betrayals. In Dragon Age: Origins (2009), "The Disciples" denote awakened hurlocks with speech and strategy, subverting minion tropes into autonomous threats under the .

Modern Interpretations and Movements

Contemporary Discipleship Practices

Contemporary discipleship practices in emphasize intentional, relational processes over large-scale programs, focusing on evangelizing non-believers, establishing new believers in core doctrines, and equipping mature followers for leadership and multiplication. This approach draws from biblical models, particularly Jesus' investment in a small apostles, adapting them to modern contexts through one-on-one mentoring, small group studies, and community accountability structures. Churches implementing these practices report higher retention and spiritual growth, with strategies including weekly meetings centered on Scripture exposition (typically 35 minutes), , and practical application discussions. Key methods include disciple-making movements (DMM) and church-planting movements (CPM), which prioritize rapid multiplication via lay-led training in , obedience, and peer , often in non-Western contexts but increasingly adopted in the . For instance, effective programs select receptive individuals, progress through staged training (e.g., foundational obedience to advanced ), and integrate exposure early, yielding self-sustaining groups without heavy pastoral reliance. In evangelical churches, best practices involve simplifying tools for everyday believers—such as curriculum on , , and —while fostering cultures where pastors model rather than monopolize teaching. Post-2020 trends reflect adaptations to digital and cultural shifts, with increased models combining in-person fellowship (e.g., shared meals and group ) and platforms for engagement, though surveys indicate churches lag in digital disciple-making despite 39% of expressing interest in deeper but citing busyness as a barrier. Less than 5% of U.S. churches qualify as disciple-making oriented, highlighting a gap between casual attendance and committed formation, prompting calls for preaching sermons, services, and investments that prioritize relational depth over event-based growth. Practices often revive ancient rhythms like daily Scripture and breaking together to counter modern , with evidence from group ministries showing 89% retention among participants in stable study cohorts. Critics within these circles note overemphasis on individual quiet times at the expense of communal , advocating integrated models where discipleship and reinforce each other.

Criticisms and Debates

Critics of modern Christian discipleship contend that it frequently prioritizes numerical growth and consumer-oriented programs over rigorous obedience to Christ's teachings, resulting in widespread nominalism rather than deep transformation. This perspective echoes Dietrich Bonhoeffer's 1937 critique of "cheap grace," which forgives sin without demanding repentance or costly discipleship, a failing attributed to many evangelical churches that emphasize initial conversion while neglecting ongoing formation. Church analysts further argue that imprecise definitions and vocabulary obscure discipleship's essence, leading to ineffective models that fail to produce mature believers capable of withstanding secular pressures. Debates within Christianity highlight a perceived gap between biblical discipleship—characterized by radical renunciation and communal accountability—and contemporary Western practices, which often invert cause and effect by treating attendance or self-help as substitutes for Spirit-led obedience. Proponents of intentional disciple-making movements, successful in global contexts with rapid multiplication through simple, reproducible methods, criticize Western individualism for hindering similar outcomes, as cultural emphasis on autonomy resists hierarchical mentoring and rapid obedience. Some theologians distinguish "Christians" as those holding intellectual assent from "disciples" defined by loyal obedience, estimating that only a minority of church attendees embody the latter amid diluted preaching. In secular and political spheres, disciple-like face for enabling authoritarian tendencies, where uncritical to leaders erodes and . scholars describe a in these relationships, marked by followers' diminished in favor of emotional or ideological , particularly in populist movements that demand over ethical . Ethicists debate discipleship's philosophical risks, arguing it can impose a teleological that subordinates personal to a master's vision, potentially justifying or absent reciprocal critique. Such concerns intensify in ideological contexts, where "discipleship" to figures or causes mirrors , prioritizing group over evidence-based reasoning.

References

  1. [1]
    Definition of DISCIPLE
    ### Etymology of "Disciple"
  2. [2]
    DISCIPLE | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary
    a person who believes in the ideas of a leader, esp. a religious or political one, and tries to live according to those ideas.
  3. [3]
    Disciple - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
    Originating from Old English discipul and Latin discipulus, meaning "one who follows another for learning," especially Jesus Christ's twelve Apostles.
  4. [4]
    Disciple (Christianity) | Research Starters - EBSCO
    In Christianity, a "disciple" refers to an individual who follows the teachings of Jesus Christ. The term stems from the Latin "discipulus" and the Greek ...
  5. [5]
    What Is a Disciple? - Desiring God
    Jul 28, 2014 · A disciple of Jesus is a worshiper, a servant, and a witness. The standard definition of “disciple” (noun) is someone who adheres to the teachings of another.
  6. [6]
    What is Christian discipleship? | GotQuestions.org
    Jul 29, 2022 · A Christian disciple is a person who follows Jesus Christ and accepts and assists in the spreading of the good news of salvation through Him.
  7. [7]
    What is the True Meaning of Christian Discipleship? - Grace Seminary
    Dec 9, 2021 · The word for “disciple” is a learner who follows a master teacher. In contrast to our current Western era, learning in Jesus' time was very ...
  8. [8]
    discere‎ (Latin): meaning, definition - WordSense Dictionary
    From Proto-Italic *dikskō‎, reduplicated form of Proto-Indo-European *deḱ-‎. From the same root as doceō. Cognates include Ancient Greek διδάσκω, δεδαώς, δαῆναι ...
  9. [9]
    Disciple - Mathetes (Greek Word Study) - Precept Austin
    Feb 22, 2019 · Disciples (3101) (mathetes from manthano = to learn which Vine says is "from a root math, indicating thought accompanied by endeavor". Gives us ...<|separator|>
  10. [10]
    Disciple - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms - Vocabulary.com
    The noun disciple comes from the Latin word discipulus, which means "student, learner, or follower." One of the earliest places disciple showed up was in the ...
  11. [11]
    10 Famous Greek Philosophers and Their Ideas
    May 31, 2025 · Aristotle, a disciple of Plato, ventured beyond metaphysical speculation and delved into empirical study, ethics, and politics. He emphasised ...
  12. [12]
    The First Universities? Ancient Greek Philosophical Schools
    Feb 12, 2025 · The aim of education was the betterment, and nurturing, of human souls, through a life of contemplation. This is achieved in a community of like ...<|separator|>
  13. [13]
    Disciple Meaning - Bible Definition and References
    A disciple of Christ is one who (1) believes his doctrine, (2) rests on his sacrifice, (3) imbibes his spirit, and (4) imitates his example.
  14. [14]
    The 12 Disciples of Jesus: Their Names and Facts | Crosswalk.com
    The 12 disciples were Peter, James, John, Andrew, Philip, Judas Iscariot, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alpheus), Bartholomew, Judas Thaddeus, and Simon ...
  15. [15]
    https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+10%3A2-4&version=NIV
  16. [16]
    What is the difference between a disciple and apostle? - Got Questions
    Sep 25, 2023 · Every apostle was a disciple, but not every disciple was an apostle. Every person who believes in Jesus is called His disciple.
  17. [17]
    https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028%3A19-20&version=ESV
  18. [18]
    What is the Great Commission? | GotQuestions.org
    Oct 28, 2024 · The Great Commission, from Matthew 28:19-20, is to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them, with "make disciples" as the ...
  19. [19]
    What Do We Mean by “Disciple,” “Disciple Making ... - Discipleship.org
    A disciple is following Jesus, being changed by Jesus and committed to the mission of Jesus. We always come back to this definition when we talk about ...
  20. [20]
    8527. תַּלְמִיד (talmid) -- Disciple, student, learner - Bible Hub
    Rabbinic Literature: Talmid evolved into talmid ḥakham (“sage's disciple”), the archetype of the life-long learner under a rabbi's authority. This heritage ...Missing: Jewish tradition<|separator|>
  21. [21]
    The Prophet Elisha - Elijah's Successor - Chabad.org
    Elisha was the faithful disciple of the prophet Elijah, and his successor. He had followed his master from the moment they met, when Elisha was a young man.
  22. [22]
    [PDF] Elijah and Elisha: Part I - Jewish Bible Quarterly
    Elijah served as a guide for Elisha ben Shaphat, just as Moses had been the mentor of Joshua ben Nun. Some of this mentoring/example- setting was direct, and ...
  23. [23]
    talmid | Heart Soil - WordPress.com
    Nov 13, 2015 · Within Judaism of the 1st century individuals were known as “disciples” if they were adherents or followers committed to a recognized leader, ...
  24. [24]
    Rabbi and Talmidim - That the World May Know
    A rabbi was a teacher, while a talmid was a student who wanted to become like the rabbi, devoted to their teacher.
  25. [25]
    Job Description for a Disciple | Torah Portions - FFOZ
    The Hebrew word for disciple is talmid (תלמיד), a word that simply means “student.” The plural is talmidim (תלמידים ): students. A disciple's job was to learn ...
  26. [26]
    Discipleship: the Talmidim - Impartial Christian Ministries
    Mar 17, 2017 · Talmid is the Hebrew word for a disciple; talmidim is the Hebrew word for a group of disciples. Peter was a talmid of Jesus, but only one of Jesus's talmidim.
  27. [27]
    Contrasting the Discipleship Methods of Jesus and Jewish Rabbis
    In Judaism, being a disciple was only transitional–a means to an end–with the goal of becoming a rabbi. For the disciples of Jesus discipleship was not a step ...
  28. [28]
    [PDF] Discipleship in the Context of Judaism in Jesus' Time Part I
    For a talmid, the goal was, while traveling with his rabbi, to learn to understand but also apply the Torah.
  29. [29]
    Disciple: Significance and symbolism
    Buddhist concept of 'Disciple' In Buddhism, a disciple is a student or follower of a teacher, particularly in a religious or spiritual context. They learn, ...
  30. [30]
    Becoming a Buddhist Lay Disciple - BODHI MONASTERY
    Aug 14, 2008 · One becomes a Buddhist lay disciple by means of two steps: Going for Refuge to the Three Jewels and undertaking the Five Precepts.
  31. [31]
    The four factors of gathering disciples - Thubten Chodron
    Feb 7, 1994 · First we're generous, then we give them the teachings, which is another form of generosity. And then after we've given them teachings, we ...
  32. [32]
    Guru & Shishya - Hinduism Today
    Apr 1, 2023 · An advanced shishya is one whose intuition is in absolute harmony with that of his satguru. This harmony does not occur in the beginning stages, ...
  33. [33]
    Guru-Shishya Relationship in Indian Culture: The Possibility of a ...
    One very distinctive characteristic of guru-shishya relationship is its poly-variant nature. It indicates the all encompassing quality of this relationship.Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
  34. [34]
    Guru-Shishya Relationship in Indian Culture - ResearchGate
    Aug 10, 2025 · The guru-disciple tradition from Hinduism and Buddhism (Raina, 2002) are also often considered as a mentoring relationship (Colley, 2002; ...
  35. [35]
    https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803100217224
  36. [36]
    [PDF] Maqam, Murshid and Murid: Sufi Way Stations and Master-Disciple ...
    Maqamat are seven spiritual stages in Sufi doctrine, describing the path to God. The Murid should be wholly engrossed in God, with actions aligned with the ...
  37. [37]
    Sufi Disciple / Murid - Ajmer khwaja
    A Sufi Murid should have 20 key characteristics, including repentance, contentment, isolation, firm belief, and being brave and generous.
  38. [38]
    https://www.sgrdsabhabayarea.com/sikhism/main-priciples/
  39. [39]
    Sikhism - Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar
    The word Sikh is derived from the Sanskrit 'shishya' meaning disciple. Sikhs are the disciples of their ten Gurus beginning with Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469 – 1539 ...
  40. [40]
    Confucianism - National Geographic Education
    Sep 30, 2025 · The most famous of these disciples were Mencius and Xunzi, both of whom further developed Confucian thought and ideals. Confucianism includes ...
  41. [41]
    Taoism - Religious Studies Center
    Lao Tzu had a disciple who lived about three hundred years ... Both Confucianism and Taoism were concerned with government and the stability of society.
  42. [42]
    Machiavelli, Niccolò - Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
    Some scholars claim that Machiavelli is the last ancient political philosopher because he understands the merciless exposure of political life. ... disciple of ...
  43. [43]
    Vladimir Lenin and Communist Revolution
    Already radicalized by university and his brother's death, Lenin became a devoted disciple of Marx's writings and ideology. His sister Anna described him ...
  44. [44]
    Lenin's ugly legacy of identity politics - Religion & Liberty Online
    Jan 21, 2022 · After a complicated upbringing, Lenin emerged a devoted disciple of the teachings of Karl Marx, from Marx's views on property to Marx's hatred ...
  45. [45]
    "Always a Whig in Politics" The Partisan Life of Abraham Lincoln
    ... disciple of Henry Clay, the party's architect. He left it reluctantly in 1855, still professing to be a Henry Clay Whig. Page [End Page 21]. That experience ...
  46. [46]
    [PDF] Machiavelli and his more recent disciples
    MACHIAVELLI AND HIS MORE RECIL'T DISCIPLES ... politics are described by one word and that word is Eru ... Another of the disciples of Machiavelli whom it ...
  47. [47]
    Are China's Leaders Disciples of Machiavelli? - The Diplomat
    Feb 10, 2015 · We can discover whether Chinese leaders truly are the disciples of Machiavelli by probing into these three tenets, while roughly evaluating China's domestic ...
  48. [48]
    The Persistent Ghost of Ayn Rand, the Forebear of ... - The New Yorker
    Jun 6, 2019 · The economist Alan Greenspan, for example, was a disciple of Rand's who brought her philosophy to his role as chairman of the Council of ...
  49. [49]
    A Lenin for the 21st century | MR Online
    May 28, 2025 · What had been theory with Marx was put into practice by his disciples–Lenin and the other Russian Bolsheviks–in their seizure of power in 1917.
  50. [50]
    Dallas Willard on “What a Disciple Is” - Matthew Erickson
    Sep 21, 2023 · A disciple, or apprentice, is simply someone who has decided to be with another person, under appropriate conditions, in order to become capable of doing what ...
  51. [51]
    3 Great Mentoring Relationships Throughout History
    Jul 17, 2020 · This trio of relationships shaped human history. Socrates, Plato, Aristotle and Alexander all understood the power of giving and receiving guidance.Missing: disciple modern
  52. [52]
    https://we-rule.com/blog/6-examples-of-mentorship-throughout-history
  53. [53]
    The History of Mentoring in the Western World - LinkedIn
    Mar 22, 2023 · Mentoring is widely acknowledged today as an essential function for organizations looking to better engage their employees, ...
  54. [54]
    Apprenticeship and discipleship - CBMC | Christian Business Men's ...
    Feb 29, 2024 · Both apprenticeship and discipleship offer invaluable frameworks for cultivating knowledge, skills, and character, guided by principles that transcend the ...
  55. [55]
    Top 25 Mentoring Relationships in History
    Sep 13, 2015 · We have curated a list of 25 of the most meaningful mentoring relationships in history. Is your favorite listed? Tell us or share others using #MENTOR25Years!
  56. [56]
    Book Disciple - FAITH ARTIST AGENCY
    The veteran Christian rock band was originally formed by high school friends in Maryville, Tennessee in 1992. Just a teenager at the time, founder and frontman ...
  57. [57]
    Disciple Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & More - AllMusic
    Award-winning rock outfit from Knoxville, Tennessee that combines secular metal influences with positive Christian messages.<|control11|><|separator|>
  58. [58]
    Disciple — HM Magazine
    Oct 20, 2014 · Christian hard-rock veterans Disciple have a history of unabashedly Christian lyrics and heavy-hitting riffs.
  59. [59]
    Band – Disciple – Skeleton Psalms
    Formed in 1992, Disciple has recorded 12 albums and 3 EP's, played thousands of shows worldwide, headlined tours since the late 90's, has 15 No. 1 singles.
  60. [60]
    Disciple lineup, biography - Last.fm
    Jul 21, 2025 · Disciple was formed in 1992 by friends Kevin Young, Brad Noah, Tim Barrett, and Adrian DiTommasi (who would leave the band shortly after inception)
  61. [61]
    Disciple | Spotify
    WWE: The Music, Vol. 8 · Jesus Will · The Seventh Seal · Lies Of My Brothers · End of the World (feat. Disciple) · Midnight · Fight In Me · Fight In Me (Deluxe Edition) ...
  62. [62]
    Music – Disciple – Skeleton Psalms
    1. First Love. Disciple. 04:53 · 2. Long Live the Rebels. Disciple. 03:41 · 3. Secret Weapon. Disciple. 03:44 · 4. Erase. Disciple. 04:03 · 5. Come My Way. Disciple.
  63. [63]
    https://www.shepherd.com/best-books/the-lives-of-jesuss-disciples
  64. [64]
    Disciple Raising Novels & Books - WebNovel
    The first disciple, Lu Zhiwei, is the foremost Righteous Fairy in the world. The second disciple, Xu Qingjun, is an evil-doing demon path enchantress. However, ...
  65. [65]
    The Disciple (2020) - IMDb
    Rating 7.1/10 (3,293) Self-doubt, sacrifice and struggle converge into an existential crisis for a devoted classical vocalist as the mastery he strives for remains elusive.
  66. [66]
    The Disciple (2020) - Rotten Tomatoes
    Rating 96% (56) A vocalist who has devoted his life to the study of classical Indian music begins to question whether he will ever achieve his aspirations of excellence.
  67. [67]
    The Devil's Disciple | film by Hamilton [1959] - Britannica
    In Kirk Douglas. Corral (1957), The Devil's Disciple (1959), Lonely Are the Brave (1962), Seven Days in May (1964), and In Harm's Way (1965).
  68. [68]
    Movie Review: 'Father Stu' a True Disciple, Example of Rebirth
    Apr 13, 2022 · Movie Review: 'Father Stu' a True Disciple, Example of Rebirth ... Many men will relate to Stuart (Mark Wahlberg, “Deepwater Horizon”). You ...<|separator|>
  69. [69]
    Followers | Cult of the Lamb Wiki - Fandom
    At Level 10, you can ascend the Follower to be a Disciple with Ritual of Discipleship, in which they are able to interact with several buildings meant for ...
  70. [70]
    Indulge in the Sins of the Flesh in Cult of the Lamb's next free update ...
    Jan 8, 2024 · This dinky disciple will share some traits with its parents, and its birth can generate Sin. Gather enough Sin and you can perform a series ...
  71. [71]
    7 Iconic Master And Disciple Relationships In Gaming - TheGamer
    Sep 23, 2022 · 7 The Boss And Naked Snake (Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater) · 6 Commander Shepard And Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect Series) · 5 Dutch Van Der ...
  72. [72]
    The Disciples | Dragon Age Wiki - Fandom
    The Disciples are awoken darkspawn hurlocks—capable of speech, free will and tactical warfare. After their awakening they will select their own names ...
  73. [73]
    Grow a Disciple-Making Culture in Your Church - The Gospel Coalition
    Feb 25, 2013 · 1. Preach disciple-making sermons. · 2. Shape disciple-making worship services. · 3. Invest in a few disciple-makers. · 4. Make small group Bible ...
  74. [74]
    Making Disciples Jesus' Way: A Few at a Time - C.S. Lewis Institute
    Sep 3, 2008 · Every church's mission is the same. There is only one mission: making disciples of Jesus. We may prefer to express it in a fresh, contemporary ...
  75. [75]
    https://g3min.org/a-method-of-discipleship/
  76. [76]
    Making Mature Disciples in Missions
    Jan 24, 2024 · Church Planting Movements (CPM) and Disciple Making Movements (DMM) are among the most popular. These methods employ church growth strategies ...
  77. [77]
    How Can You Effectively Make Disciples - discipleFIRST
    Jun 4, 2024 · Effective disciple-making involves selecting the right person, using a training tool, discipling in stages, and exposing them to evangelism ...
  78. [78]
    5 Best Practices for Disciple-Making Churches - Discipleship.org
    The 5 best practices are: prioritizing disciple-making, focusing on everyday Christians, keeping it simple, providing practical tools, and making equipping the ...
  79. [79]
    Discipleship in a Digital Age - Lausanne Movement
    The church has been slow to respond to the development of the digital age, especially concerning its disciple-making ministry and mission.
  80. [80]
    Are Christians Too Busy for Discipleship Community? - Barna Group
    Feb 7, 2024 · Recent Barna data shows that interest in a lifestyle of discipleship is not in short supply. Yet two in five Christians (39%) are not currently engaged in ...
  81. [81]
    Top Trends in Disciple Making in 2020 - Discipleship.org
    1. Less than 5% of churches in the USA are disciple-making churches. · 2. The USA lacks revival-based disciple making movements. · 3. There is great confusion in ...
  82. [82]
    Active Discipleship in a Changing World - Christianity Today
    Feb 7, 2025 · The widening divide between casual Christianity and committed discipleship presents both our greatest challenge and our most important opportunity.
  83. [83]
    What Ancient Practices Teach Us About Modern Discipleship
    Jul 31, 2025 · Discipleship begins with prioritizing God's Word. Whether through daily Bible reading, group study, or meditation on a single verse, engaging ...2. Fellowship As A Lifeline · 3. Breaking Bread Together · 4. Prayer As A RhythmMissing: contemporary | Show results with:contemporary
  84. [84]
    The state of groups: trends and best practices for groups ministry
    Jan 16, 2025 · When churchgoers find a group, most stick with it, with nearly 9 in 10 groups ministry leaders (89%) saying most group participants have been in ...
  85. [85]
    Discipleship in the Modern Age: A Call to Action | by Jonathan Clarke
    Apr 12, 2024 · 2. Discipleship and evangelism are inextricably linked ... So much of our emphasis on modern discipleship is about having a quiet time with God.
  86. [86]
    Five Reasons We Don't Disciple (Part 1) - 9Marks
    Aug 22, 2014 · One reason we don't disciple is because we preach "cheap grace," which is forgiveness without requiring repentance or discipleship.
  87. [87]
    The problem with discipleship today - Biblical Leadership
    Mar 16, 2018 · The problems with discipleship are: lack of clarity on what it is, imprecise vocabulary, and the problem of the unknowable, as pastors have ...
  88. [88]
    A gap? Modern discipleship versus biblical discipleship
    Jul 19, 2025 · Is there a gap between biblical discipleship and modernity's Western discipleship? Modern Christians can get cause and effect backward in their faith.
  89. [89]
    Faithfulness over Speed: A caution to Disciple Making Movements
    Speed and Scope in Western Secularism. However, the themes of speed and scope also pose risks for late modern Western Christians living in a secular culture.
  90. [90]
    Difference between being a Christian and a disciple of Jesus
    Oct 11, 2024 · A Christian describes a type of worldview someone has ; a disciple describes someone who is actually loyal to Jesus and is obedient to his ...
  91. [91]
    The Degradation of Leader-Follower Dynamics: A Reflection on ...
    Jan 22, 2025 · Critical and autonomous followership is a threat to entrenched power structures, as it demands accountability, transparency, and ethical ...
  92. [92]
    Discipleship, ethics and religion: a response to Harriet Baber.
    Mar 7, 2015 · We are all disciples by dint of our humanity. It's the direction of our discipleship and, what we do with our discipleship that's important.
  93. [93]
    [PDF] Followers First: Rethinking the Legitimacy of Political Leadership
    Apr 24, 2025 · Studies often oversimplify the leader–follower dynamic, treating populist followership as equivalent to radical‐right voting and reducing.