A disciple is a follower and student of Jesus or another teacher. The word comes from the Latin discipulus, meaning learner. A disciple is not just a fan. A disciple is an apprentice. They follow the teacher. They learn from the teacher. They imitate the teacher. They carry on the teacher's mission. Jesus had many disciples. He chose twelve to be his apostles. They left everything to follow him. They sat at his feet. They asked him questions. They made mistakes. They grew in faith.

Discipleship is costly. Jesus said: if anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. A disciple must deny themselves. They must put Jesus first. They must be willing to suffer. They must be willing to die. That is the cost. But the reward is great. The disciple is a child of God. The disciple is a citizen of heaven. The disciple is a friend of Jesus. The disciple is a co-heir with Christ. The disciple is part of the family of God.

Discipleship in scripture

• Matthew 4:19: follow me and I will make you fishers of men.
• Mark 8:34: take up your cross and follow me.
• Luke 14:33: renounce all that you have.
• John 8:31: abide in my word.
• John 13:35: love one another as I have loved you.

Discipleship is not a one-time decision. It is a lifelong journey. It is a daily choice. It is a growing relationship. It is a transformation. The disciple is not perfect. The disciple is being made perfect. The disciple is not the teacher. The disciple is becoming like the teacher. The disciple is not the master. The disciple is the servant. The disciple is the student. The disciple is the follower. The disciple is the witness. The disciple is the light of the world. The disciple is the salt of the earth. The disciple is a disciple of Jesus. That is the identity. That is the calling. That is the joy. That is the cost. That is discipleship.