Disciple
μαθητής (Mathētēs)
A learner, follower, or apprentice who commits to a teacher's way of life
A disciple (mathetes) is not merely a student who learns information but an apprentice who adopts a master's entire way of life. Jesus called disciples to follow Him, learn from Him, and become like Him.
"And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple." — Luke 14:27 (KJV)
Key Verses
Luke 14:27
“And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.”Read in context
John 8:31
“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.”Read in context
Matthew 28:19
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's G3101 — Disciple (μαθητής (Mathētēs))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where μαθητής (Mathētēs) appears.
Open Strong's G3101The Concept of Mathetes
In the Greco-Roman world, a 'mathetes' was more than a classroom student. A disciple attached himself to a master — living with him, serving him, learning his teaching, and imitating his life. The relationship was all-encompassing. When Jesus called His disciples, He did not invite them to attend lectures but to leave everything and follow Him. 'Follow me' was not a suggestion to walk behind but an invitation to adopt His entire way of living.
The Cost of Discipleship
Jesus made the cost of discipleship unmistakably clear. He demanded total allegiance: 'If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple' (Luke 14:26). This is not literal hatred but a declaration of supreme priority — nothing can compete with loyalty to Christ. Discipleship means carrying one's own cross daily.
Marks of a True Disciple
Jesus identified several marks of genuine discipleship: continuing in His word (John 8:31), bearing fruit (John 15:8), loving one another (John 13:35), and denying oneself (Luke 9:23). A disciple is not defined by head knowledge but by transformed living. The goal is not merely to know what Jesus taught but to become like Jesus Himself: 'The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master' (Luke 6:40).
Making Disciples
The Great Commission does not command the church to make converts but disciples: 'Go ye therefore, and teach all nations' — literally, 'make disciples of all nations.' This involves baptizing (incorporation into the community of faith) and teaching them to observe everything Jesus commanded. Discipleship is not a program but a lifelong process of being formed into the image of Christ — and then helping others do the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many disciples did Jesus have?
Jesus had many disciples beyond the twelve apostles. Luke 10 mentions seventy sent out on a mission. Luke 6:17 speaks of a 'great multitude of his disciples.' However, Jesus chose twelve for a special role as apostles, and among those, Peter, James, and John formed an inner circle.
What is the difference between a disciple and an apostle?
All apostles were disciples, but not all disciples were apostles. A disciple is a learner and follower; an apostle is 'one sent out' with specific authority. The twelve apostles were uniquely chosen by Jesus to be eyewitnesses of His resurrection and foundational leaders of the church.
Are all Christians disciples?
Jesus' call to discipleship is not a higher tier of Christianity reserved for the especially devoted — it is the normal Christian life. Every believer is called to be a disciple: to follow Jesus, learn from Him, obey His teaching, and grow into His likeness. A 'non-disciple Christian' would be a contradiction in the New Testament.
What is the Greek word for "Disciple" in the Bible?
μαθητής (Mathētēs), pronounced "mah-thay-TAYS." It means a learner, follower, or apprentice who commits to a teacher's way of life. Its Strong's number is G3101. It is the word behind "Disciple" in the New Testament, for example in Luke 14:27.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Disciple (μαθητής (Mathētēs))
A learner, follower, or apprentice who commits to a teacher's way of life
Strong's G3101 — Disciple
μαθητής (Mathētēs) • A learner, follower, or apprentice who commits to a teacher's way of life
Discipleship Bible Quiz
Following Jesus — taking up the cross and learning from the Master.
Bible Verses About Discipleship
10 curated KJV verses
John 13:34-35 Commentary
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Luke 9:23 Commentary
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