Another Look at the "Discipleship Study"

In light of the proper translation of Matthew 28:18-20 and the various terms for followers of Jesus, I am proposing the following modified study on "Discipleship." What follows is some comments about the differences, and finally a reiteration of the proposed study.

Fine points to consider:
Matthew 28:18-20

• Literal translation is "Disciple the nations, baptizing them…."The term "disciple" here is a verb in the Greek.

• English does not recognize "disciple" as a verb, hence the NIV translation.
• The 11 are commanded to "disciple the nations (verb)" not "make disciples (noun)" as in the NIV.

• Those being baptized and taught to obey are the nations, not "the disciples." (Remember, there are no "disciples" [noun] in this text.)
• "Baptizing" and "teaching" to obey are participles that amplifiy the basic command, "disciple."
• Points of this passage:

• The "nations" (us) are called to the same standard to which the apostles were called
• Jesus defined this standard of discipleship throughout his ministry.
• We arrive at this standard through the discipling (verb) or training of others.
• We all need to be discipled, that is, baptized and taught to obey what Jesus commanded. It is a process that requires:

• Humility and a recognition of our own failings
• The involvement of imperfect humans to help us
• A focus on the true standard of Jesus’ teachings.

• "Disciples first called Christians at Antioch."
• There are many terms in the NT that describe "Christians." Each emphasizes a particular aspect of the identity or lifestyle. (This is not a comprehensive list.)

• Believers- faith and trust in God.
• Saints- holiness, purity.
• Brothers- family, unity.
• Christian- Christ-like-ness.
• Disciples- followers and students of Jesus.
• Church- members of the assembly.

• Points of this passage:

• There are many terms used for a "Christian" in the Bible.
• Before any of these terms came into usage, the term "disciple" was used. The other terms presupposed the concept of discipleship.
• Being a disciple is the core of following Jesus.
• You cannot be saved without being a faithful disciple of Jesus.

• "Baptizing disciples"

• Candidates for baptism are those who have been sufficiently discipled to be ready for baptism. This would include basic instruction in the faith, like the study series.
• Those studying need to understand that they are being called to discipleship of Jesus and not just church membership or the like.
• Those being baptized need to understand that they are accepting the call of discipleship. They are making a pledge of a good conscience to God and are being saved in baptism (1 Pt 3:21).

• Disciple=Christian=Saved

• The equation is mathematically incorrect.
• The equation was intended to show the equivalence of the terms.
• However, the formula can be misunderstood with a literal application of the mathematical implications.
• These three terms each have a distinct significance:
• People become "disciples" when they start following Jesus.
• People are "Christians" when they imitate Christ.
• People are "saved" when they are baptized

I. Acts 11:19-26

A. Different terms are used to identify followers of Jesus in the New Testament. Each focuses on a different aspect of following Jesus.

1. "Christian"
a. The word "Christian" only appears three times in the New Testament.
b. It was the name those in the world gave the disciples seven years after the church began
c. It represents "Christlikeness."
2. "Disciple"
a. Various forms of the word "disciple" occur over 270 times in the New Testament.
b.Jesus defined the concept of discipleship throughout his ministry.
3. Other terms:
a. "believer" (one who believes)
b. "saint" (a set apart one)
c. "brother" (one having the same Father as another)
d. These were used later in the history of the church and are built upon the concept of discipleship.


B. Different terms are used to identify followers of Jesus in the New Testament. Each focuses on a different aspect of following Jesus.

A. Calling of the first disciples.
B. Come follow me (Christ).- the core of Christianity. (Not about going to church or being religious but about following Jesus)
C. ...make you fishers of men-Jesus gave these first disciples a mission
D. Immediate response (but consider Lk 14:28 below)

A. If any man…
B. Deny self.
1. Notice Christ in the garden (Matthew 26:36-39, "Not my will, but your will.")
2. Don't give in to moods
C. Carry the cross-daily.
D. Gain world ... forfeit soul. Lose your life for Jesus ... save it.

A. If any man...
B. Count the cost (vv. 28-30)
C. Consider the alternatives (vv. 31-32)
D. Love Christ more than any person (v. 26)
E. Persecutions (v. 27)
F. Everything, not just anything (v. 33)

A. Disciples learn by watching and asking
B. Must learn to pray-disciples saw the strength Jesus received from the Father
C. Daily personal relationship with God (v. 3)

A. Love one another
B. Be an active part of the fellowship

A. Jesus commanded the 11 to disciple the nations. This is exactly what Jesus did to them
B. All of us need someone to disciple us to maturity in Christ.
C. We in turn need to disciple others with what have learned
D. This is the only way to save the world! (chart)

A. Am I a disciple?
B. Do I want to accept the call to discipleship?
C. What do I need to do to become a disciple?