Bible Verses About Discipleship

"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you."

"If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me."

"If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed."

"And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple."

"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."

"And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men."

"And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also."

"Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples."

"So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple."

"Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord."

What does the Bible say about discipleship?

Discipleship is not a program—it is a way of life. Jesus did not call people to attend meetings; He called them to follow Him. Key King James Version passages include Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 9:23, John 8:31. This page collects 10 KJV verses about discipleship, each quoted in full.

What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus?

A disciple is a committed follower and learner of Jesus. It involves: denying self (Luke 9:23), continuing in His Word (John 8:31), bearing fruit (John 15:8), loving others (John 13:35), and making other disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). It's a total-life commitment, not a part-time hobby.

How do I make disciples?

Second Timothy 2:2 outlines the pattern: invest in faithful people who will teach others. This involves building relationships, modeling Christlike character, teaching God's Word, praying together, and gradually releasing others to do the same. Discipleship is life-on-life, not just information transfer.

What is the cost of discipleship?

Jesus said 'whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple' (Luke 14:27). Discipleship costs comfort, popularity, self-will, and sometimes relationships. But Jesus also said 'my yoke is easy, and my burden is light' (Matthew 11:30). The cost is high but the reward is infinitely higher.

What is the cost of being a disciple of Jesus?

Jesus was explicit: 'Whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple' (Luke 14:27). Discipleship may cost comfort, relationships, reputation, and self-sovereignty—but Jesus promises the return far exceeds the cost (Mark 10:29-30).