Yes, there is a distinction between being a Christian and being a Disciple of Jesus Christ, though the two are closely related.
1. Christian: A Follower by Name
The term “Christian” originally meant “little Christ” and was first used in Antioch (Acts 11:26) to describe those who followed Jesus. Today, it broadly refers to anyone who identifies with the Christian faith, whether by belief, culture, or association.
However, not everyone who calls themselves a Christian necessarily lives as a disciple. Some may believe in Jesus but not actively follow His teachings in their daily lives.
2. Disciple: A Devoted Follower
A disciple (Greek: mathētēs) means “learner” or “follower”—someone who is committed to learning from, obeying, and imitating Jesus in every aspect of life.
Jesus gave clear conditions for discipleship:
Deny self and take up the cross (Luke 9:23).
Love God above all and love others (Matthew 22:37-39).
Obey His commands (John 14:15).
Make more disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).
Key Differences
Christian
-Believes in Jesus
-Can be cultural or nominal
-May not live by biblical teachings
-Identifies as part of Christianity
Disciple
-Follows Jesus actively
-Committed to spiritual growth
-Strive to obey God’s Word
-Lives a transformed life daily
Conclusion
While all true disciples of Jesus are Christians, not all who call themselves Christians are truly disciples. Jesus calls His followers not just to believe, but to follow, obey, and grow in faith.
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Here are some ways to grow as a Disciple of Jesus Christ:
Growing as a disciple of Jesus Christ is a lifelong journey of deepening your relationship with Him and living according to His teachings. Here’s a practical guide to help you grow in discipleship:
1. Develop a Strong Relationship with God
A. Daily Prayer:
Speak with God throughout your day, not just in the morning or before bed.
Pray with sincerity—Jesus said, “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.” (Matthew 6:6)
B. Read and Study the Bible:
The Bible is God’s Word and the foundation of discipleship (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) to learn directly from Jesus.
Meditate on Scripture (Psalm 1:2) and apply it to daily life.
2. Obey Jesus’ Teachings
A. Live Out the Great Commandments:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.” (Matthew 22:37)
“Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)
B. Deny Yourself and Take Up Your Cross
Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)
This means surrendering personal desires for God’s will and trusting Him.
3. Be Transformed by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit guides and empowers believers (John 16:13).
Ask God daily for the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23): love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
4. Get Involved in Christian Community
Join a Bible-believing church for fellowship and accountability (Hebrews 10:25).
Find a mentor—someone mature in faith who can disciple you (Titus 2:1-8).
Be active in serving—help the poor, encourage others, and use your gifts for God’s kingdom (1 Peter 4:10).
5. Make Disciples
Jesus commanded, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)
Share your faith with others—through words and actions.
Disciple someone by helping them grow in their faith just as others help you.
6. Trust God in Trials and Persevere
Discipleship is not always easy. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Keep trusting Him, even in difficult times (James 1:2-4).
NEXT STEPS: HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO INCORPORATE A PLAN INTO YOUR DAILY ROUTINE:
Here are some next steps tailored for your Bible study, personal growth, and discipleship journey:
1. Bible Reading Plan for Discipleship
Start with a structured plan to build a strong foundation:
30-Day Plan on Discipleship
📖 Week 1: Knowing Jesus
Day 1: John 1:1-18 (Jesus, the Word made flesh)
Day 2: Luke 9:23-27 (Denying yourself to follow Christ)
Day 3: Matthew 11:28-30 (Jesus gives rest)
Day 4: John 15:1-11 (Abiding in Christ)
Day 5: Philippians 2:1-11 (The humility of Christ)
Day 6: John 3:1-21 (Being born again)
Day 7: Reflection & Prayer
📖 Week 2: Developing Spiritual Disciplines
Day 8: Matthew 6:5-15 (The Lord’s Prayer)
Day 9: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (The power of Scripture)
Day 10: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (Praying without ceasing)
Day 11: Romans 12:1-2 (Renewing the mind)
Day 12: Psalm 1:1-6 (Delighting in God’s Word)
Day 13: James 1:22-25 (Being doers of the Word)
Day 14: Reflection & Prayer
📖 Week 3: Obedience & Growth
Day 15: Galatians 5:16-26 (Walking in the Spirit)
Day 16: Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes)
Day 17: Colossians 3:12-17 (Putting on the new self)
Day 18: Ephesians 6:10-20 (The armor of God)
Day 19: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (The greatest commandment: Love)
Day 20: James 2:14-26 (Faith and works)
Day 21: Reflection & Prayer
📖 Week 4: Making Disciples & Endurance
Day 22: Matthew 28:16-20 (The Great Commission)
Day 23: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (Ambassadors for Christ)
Day 24: Acts 1:8 (Being witnesses)
Day 25: Romans 8:18-39 (Nothing can separate us from God’s love)
Day 26: Hebrews 12:1-3 (Running the race with perseverance)
Day 27: 1 Peter 3:13-17 (Defending your faith)
Day 28: John 16:33 (Take heart, Jesus has overcome the world)
Day 29: Psalm 23 (Trusting in God’s guidance)
Day 30: Reflection & Next Steps
💡 Pro Tip: Keep a journal to write reflections, key lessons, and prayers as you read.
2. Books on Discipleship
📚 Great books to help you grow:
The Cost of Discipleship – Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Deep dive into following Jesus wholeheartedly)
Mere Christianity – C.S. Lewis (Strong foundation for faith and discipleship)
Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream – David Platt (Challenges cultural Christianity)
Multiply – Francis Chan (How to make disciples and grow spiritually)
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster (Spiritual disciplines to grow closer to God)
3. Practical Ways to Grow in Discipleship
✅ Join a Bible Study Group – Being part of a small group helps with accountability.
✅ Serve in Ministry – Whether in your church, community, or mission work.
✅ Find a Mentor & Be a Mentor – Learn from mature believers and help others grow.
✅ Share Your Faith – Evangelism is part of discipleship (Matthew 28:19).
✅ Memorize Scripture – Helps in daily struggles and spiritual growth (Psalm 119:11).
4. What’s Next?
Would you like help with:
Finding a church or mentor?
Recommendations for discipleship podcasts or devotionals?
A prayer plan to go along with your Bible study?
Email Dave and I for follow-up for you and your church and your men’s group at
Dave@legacydads.org and Dante@legacydads.org
