What Is a Disciple?

Day 1 — What Is a Disciple?

Scripture:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” — Matthew 28:19–20

Reflection:

These words come at the very end of the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus had died on the cross. He rose from the grave. He now had all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18).

Then He gave one clear command:

Make disciples.

He did not say, “Make people agree with you.”

He did not say, “Win arguments.”

He did not say, “Build a big crowd.”

He said, “Make disciples.”

A disciple is someone who follows Jesus and obeys Him.

Notice something important. Jesus said to teach people “to observe” or obey what He commanded. That means discipleship is not just learning facts about Jesus. It is living the way Jesus teaches.

For many years I served as a pastor. Now I serve in public education. I have learned something important: You cannot force someone to grow. You cannot argue someone into change.

Real growth happens when Jesus changes the heart.

In Epistle to the Colossians 1:28, Paul says the goal is to present everyone “mature in Christ.” That means becoming more like Jesus.

Discipleship is helping people become more like Christ — not more like us.

Observation:

• Jesus has all authority (Matthew 28:18).

• The command is to make disciples, not just converts.

• Teaching leads to obedience.

• The goal is maturity in Christ (Colossians 1:28).

Life Application:

Are you helping people follow Jesus — or just agree with you?

Is your focus on winning arguments or building people up?

Discipleship always points people to Christ.

Prayer Prompt:

Lord, help me care more about people becoming like You than about them agreeing with me.

Action Step:

Pray for one person today. Ask God to help them grow in Christ.