If you’ve spent time in church or reading the Bible, you’ve probably heard the term disciple used often. But what does it really mean to be a disciple of Jesus? Is it just another word for “Christian”? Is it reserved for the original twelve apostles? Or is it something deeper, more personal, and more costly?
Let’s explore what the Bible says about being a disciple of Jesus—and how it can transform not only what we believe but how we live every day.
Disciple vs. Christian: Is There a Difference?
The word Christian only appears three times in the New Testament (Acts 11:26, Acts 26:28, 1 Peter 4:16). It was originally a label placed on believers in Antioch—possibly in a mocking way—as “little Christs.”
But disciple? That word shows up over 250 times in the New Testament. A disciple isn’t just a believer. A disciple is a follower, a student, someone who is learning by walking with their teacher and becoming like their teacher.
In Luke 6:40 (ESV), Jesus says:
“A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.”
So being a disciple means more than identifying as a Christian. It’s about becoming like Jesus.
1. A Disciple Follows Jesus Fully
Jesus didn’t say, “Believe in Me and stay comfortable.” He said:
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
—Luke 9:23 (ESV)
To follow Jesus is to make Him Lord of our lives—not just our Savior. It’s choosing Him above our desires, dreams, and even relationships when necessary (see Luke 14:26-27). That doesn’t mean we abandon everyone or everything, but it does mean Jesus comes first.
This kind of obedience isn’t popular. It’s costly. But Jesus never hid the cost. He invited people to follow Him, but He also said:
“Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.”
—Luke 14:27 (ESV)
2. A Disciple Learns from Jesus Daily
In ancient Jewish culture, a disciple (or talmid) would follow a rabbi everywhere—watching, listening, asking questions, imitating his life. That’s what Jesus invites us into.
Today, we follow Jesus by spending time with Him in the Word, in prayer, and through the Holy Spirit. Discipleship is not a one-time decision; it’s a daily journey of learning and growing.
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
—Matthew 11:29 (ESV)
A disciple studies not just to gain knowledge but to know the heart of their Teacher. If your Bible time feels dry, ask God to help you see Jesus more clearly. The more we know Him, the more we become like Him.
3. A Disciple Abides in Jesus
Jesus said something powerful to His disciples on the night before His crucifixion:
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.”
—John 15:4 (ESV)
Abiding means remaining—staying connected to Jesus like a branch to a vine. It’s how we grow, how we bear fruit, and how we walk in step with Him. You can’t be a true disciple from a distance. You have to stay close.
And that connection transforms us. As we abide in Him, our character changes. Love, joy, peace, patience—the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23)—becomes evident in our lives.
4. A Disciple Makes Other Disciples
Being a disciple is never just about us. Jesus’ final words to His followers were:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…”
—Matthew 28:19 (ESV)
If we’re truly following Jesus, we’ll invite others to follow Him too. This doesn’t require a seminary degree or a platform. It starts with conversations, relationships, and living a life that reflects Jesus.
Sometimes we make discipleship too complicated. But Jesus modeled it simply: walk with people, teach them truth, love them well, and invite them to follow Him with their whole hearts.
5. A Disciple Is Transformed by the Holy Spirit
You don’t become a disciple in your own strength. You’re transformed from the inside out by the Holy Spirit. This is important—discipleship isn’t behavior modification. It’s heart transformation.
Paul says in Romans 12:2 (ESV):
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…”
And 2 Corinthians 3:18 (CSB) tells us:
“We all… are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory; this is from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
As we follow Jesus, the Spirit shapes our minds, desires, and actions. We become more loving, more holy, more Christlike—not because we’re trying harder, but because God is at work within us.
Being a Disciple Isn’t Easy—But It’s Worth It
Let’s be honest: being a disciple of Jesus won’t make your life easier. In fact, it might get harder. But it will fill your life with purpose, peace, and eternal impact.
It means surrendering control. It means letting go of comfort and convenience. It means trusting Jesus even when you don’t understand everything. But the reward is more than worth the cost.
Because in following Jesus, we find the abundant life He promised (John 10:10)—not necessarily in stuff or status, but in joy, peace, identity, and eternal hope.
Let’s Talk!
Has the idea of being a disciple ever felt confusing or overwhelming to you? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.
Let’s grow together.
Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below, or join the conversation on Instagram @faithandformulas. I’d love to hear what you’re learning as you follow Jesus and deepen your walk with Him.
👉 Question for you: What’s one step you can take this week to grow as a disciple of Jesus?
