81. What the Bible Says About Discipleship (pt4)

What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 81 - 18/07/25

In this week's study we revisit the topic of discipleship.

1. Defining Discipleship: A Life of Love and Commitment

The study began with a reflection on the foundational question: What is a disciple? Drawing from John 13:35, it was established that love for one another is the primary outward sign of being Christ’s disciple. Participants explored how modern Western thinking tends to treat "disciple" as a label rather than a calling, and they emphasised that discipleship is deeply personal, not merely historical. The Greek root of “disciple” (μαθητής, mathētēs) implies a learner or follower under discipline—suggesting that discipleship involves intentional training, obedience, and transformation.

2. Old Testament Roots and the Rabbinical Model

Though the specific term "disciple" isn't used in the Old Testament, the concept is evident in the mentor-student relationships of figures like Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha, and Jeremiah and Baruch. These examples provide a foundation for the New Testament model of discipleship. The rabbinic tradition of Jesus’ day—with followers emulating their teacher’s life and doctrine—was firmly rooted in Jewish culture, and Jesus adopted and transformed this model, calling people not just to learn, but to live in radical obedience to Him (cf. Matthew 4:19).

3. The Cost of Discipleship

The study explored Jesus’ stark demands, such as in Luke 14:33: “Whoever does not give up all he has cannot be my disciple.” This verse led to a discussion about the true cost of following Christ. It was emphasised that discipleship may involve surrendering status, possessions, or relationships. Yet this surrender is not necessarily about literal abandonment, but rather about no longer claiming ownership over anything—recognising God as the source and steward of all (cf. Matthew 16:24). This truth challenges comfortable Christianity and invites believers to examine whether they truly follow Christ or merely profess belief.

4. Discipleship Requires Ongoing Surrender

Discipleship was portrayed as a continual process of surrender and transformation. Several testified to life-altering experiences where they gave everything to God and witnessed both loss and restoration. This echoed Romans 12:1–2, which calls believers to present their lives as living sacrifices and not be conformed to the world. The parable in Luke 14:28–30 about counting the cost before building a tower was highlighted as a warning against superficial commitments to Christ. A key insight was that the depth of one’s surrender is often only revealed under testing.

5. Core Characteristics of a Disciple

A comprehensive list of scriptural characteristics was presented, identifying key traits of a disciple: imitation of Christ (Ephesians 5:1), love and compassion (John 3:16), obedience (1 John 2:5–6), humility (Philippians 2:3–8), prayer (Philippians 1:9–11), evangelism (Matthew 28:19–20), fellowship (Psalm 133:1), spiritual fruitfulness (Psalm 1:1–3), seeking God (Jeremiah 29:13), grace and forgiveness (Colossians 3:12–13), stewardship (1 Peter 4:10), and steadfastness (1 Corinthians 15:58). These were not merely ideals but goals to prayerfully pursue.

6. Discipleship vs. Cultural Christianity

Concerns were raised about how the modern church presents the gospel, often omitting the cost of discipleship and promoting “cheap grace.” Some lamented that discipleship has been reduced to a consumer-friendly message, lacking the reverence and awe due to God (Hebrews 12:28–29). The group discussed how this misrepresentation can lead to shallow conversions, as seen in John 6:66, where many stopped following Jesus when His teachings became too hard. A disciple must not only believe but also abide in Christ’s word (John 8:31–32).

7. The Call to Examine and Embrace True Discipleship

The session closed with a self-reflective call: Are we truly Christ’s disciples? Have we given everything? Do we walk in obedience, humility, and love toward one another? Discipleship is not about perfection but direction—a daily choosing to deny self, take up the cross, and follow Jesus. The participants were encouraged to let the Holy Spirit examine areas of weakness and invite God to work transformation. Ultimately, discipleship is about becoming more like Christ, for His glory and the building up of His church (Romans 8:29; Matthew 5:16).