What does discipleship mean Meaning and Definition

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What does discipleship mean

What does discipleship mean

Pronunciation

/ˌdɪsɪˈplɪʃən/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

Discipleship refers to the process of following Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, with a commitment to spiritual growth, maturity, and obedience. It involves learning, practicing, and teaching the principles and teachings of Jesus, and growing in faith and love for God and others.

Examples

  • He entered a discipleship program to deepen his faith and commitment to Christianity.
  • She participated in a discipleship class to learn more about God’s word and grow in her relationship with Him.

Synonyms

  • Faith journey
  • Christian growth

Antonyms

  • Apostasy
  • Rejection

Additional Information

Discipleship is a journey of spiritual growth and maturity, and it requires commitment, patience, and persistence. It involves learning to live out the teachings of Jesus, including love, forgiveness, and self-denial. A healthy discipleship environment provides support, accountability, and encouragement, and it can take place in various settings, such as church communities, small groups, or one-on-one mentorship. The goal of discipleship is to produce fully formed followers of Christ, who can effectively serve Him and His kingdom.

Discipleship can take many forms, including mentorship, teaching, and group learning. It often involves practical applications, such as service, prayer, and community engagement. The outcomes of discipleship include a deeper understanding of God’s word, a stronger relationship with Jesus, and a more meaningful life of service and love.

The New Testament describes the process of discipleship in several places, including Matthew 4:19, Luke 14:26-27, and 1 Corinthians 4:15. It emphasizes the importance of commitment, humility, and obedience in the discipleship journey.

Etymology

The word “discipleship” comes from the Greek word “mathetes,” which means “a learner” or “a follower.” It is derived from the verb “manthano,” which means “to learn” or “to know.” The concept of discipleship has its roots in ancient Greek and Roman cultures, where mentorship and apprenticeship were highly valued.

Usage Notes

The word “discipleship” is often used in Christian contexts to describe the process of following Jesus Christ and growing in faith and maturity. It can also be used in other settings, such as business or personal development, where mentorship and learning are emphasized.

When using the word “discipleship,” it is essential to specify the context, whether it is spiritual, personal, or professional. This helps to avoid confusion and ensure clear understanding.

Cultural References

  • The movie “Jesus of Nazareth” (1977) features a scene where Jesus teaches his disciples the importance of discipleship.
  • The book “Disciplines of a Godly Woman” by Barbara Hughes explores the concept of discipleship in the context of Christian womanhood.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • “Take up my yoke, and learn of me” (Matthew 11:29)
  • “Become a disciple of Jesus Christ” (Matthew 19:21)

Related Words or Phrases

  • Christian living
  • Spiritual growth
  • Mentorship

Collocations

  • “Discipleship in the workplace”
  • “Personal discipleship plan”
  • “Discipleship program for men”

Frequency of Use

The word “discipleship” is relatively uncommon in everyday conversation, but it is widely used in Christian and spiritual contexts. It is often used in formal and written communication, such as sermons, articles, and books.

Common Misspellings

  • “Discoplast” (incorrect prefix)
  • “Disciplesment” (misspelling of the word “discipleship”)

Related Words