Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 3
He notes that calling a congregation “disciples of Christ” might sound strange today, even though “disciple” saturates the Gospels/Acts and then “seems like it kind of disappears”; what do you think early Christians assumed about identity and daily life when they heard “disciple,” and what has modern Christianity substituted in its place (for example “believer”)?
Another way to ask: In the early church, “disciple” was a normal word, but today it sounds unusual. What do you think “disciple” meant for everyday life back then, and what word or idea has replaced it now (like “believer”)?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Based on the speaker’s definition, early Christians likely assumed a “disciple” was a learner and follower who sat under a master teacher and practiced his commands day by day. The speaker implies modern Christianity often substitutes lighter identity labels (like “believer”) that can imply agreement without the same expectation of costly obedience.
- He defines disciple as “a student, a learner… a follower,” connecting identity directly to following Christ.
- He describes discipleship as “the Christian life… day in and day out, abiding with Christ… putting that into practice.”
- He observes “disciple” is everywhere in the Gospels and Acts, then “seems like it kind of disappears,” and asks if calling people “disciples of Christ… sounded a bit strange.”
- He lists other titles used: “brothers and sisters… saints… slaves of Christ,” noting “disciple” is less commonly used now.
- He notes Acts-era disciples were so identified with Jesus they “had to be called Christians,” implying a visible life that matched their Master.