Disciples

The term "disciple" in the New Testament primarily refers to the followers of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "mathētēs" is used to describe someone who learns from a teacher, indicating a close and committed relationship between the disciple and their master. In the context of the Gospels, discipleship involves not only learning from Jesus but also following His teachings and example.

The most prominent group of disciples is the Twelve Apostles, whom Jesus personally selected to be His closest companions and to carry out His mission. The selection of the Twelve is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: "He appointed twelve whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons" (Mark 3:14-15). These apostles, including Peter, James, John, and others, played a foundational role in the early Church, spreading the Gospel and establishing Christian communities.

Beyond the Twelve, the term "disciple" also applies to a broader group of followers who adhered to Jesus' teachings. In the Great Commission, Jesus commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19). This directive underscores the ongoing nature of discipleship, which extends beyond the original followers to encompass all believers who commit to living according to Christ's teachings.

Discipleship in the New Testament is characterized by several key elements: a personal relationship with Jesus, adherence to His teachings, a commitment to spiritual growth, and participation in the mission of spreading the Gospel. Jesus emphasizes the cost of discipleship, stating, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me" (Matthew 16:24). This call to self-denial and sacrifice highlights the transformative nature of true discipleship.

The Multitude

The "multitude" in the New Testament refers to the large crowds that frequently gathered around Jesus during His ministry. These multitudes were drawn to Jesus for various reasons, including His authoritative teaching, miraculous healings, and compassionate care for the needy. The Gospels often depict Jesus ministering to these crowds, demonstrating His concern for their physical and spiritual well-being.

One of the most notable instances involving the multitude is the feeding of the five thousand, recorded in all four Gospels. In this event, Jesus miraculously multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed a large crowd: "Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He spoke a blessing and broke the loaves. Then He gave them to His disciples to set before the people" (Mark 6:41). This miracle not only meets the immediate physical needs of the multitude but also serves as a sign of Jesus' divine authority and provision.

The multitude often serves as a backdrop for Jesus' teachings and parables. For example, the Sermon on the Mount, one of Jesus' most famous discourses, is delivered to a large crowd: "When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain and sat down. His disciples came to Him, and He began to teach them" (Matthew 5:1-2). In this setting, Jesus addresses both His disciples and the broader audience, imparting foundational principles of the Kingdom of God.

While the multitude is often portrayed as eager to hear Jesus, the Gospels also reveal a mixed response to His message. Some in the crowd are genuinely seeking truth and healing, while others are merely curious or skeptical. Jesus acknowledges this diversity of response, as seen in the Parable of the Sower, where He explains that the seed of the Word falls on different types of soil, representing various responses to His message (Matthew 13:3-9).

In summary, the disciples and the multitude represent two distinct yet interconnected groups in the New Testament narrative. The disciples are committed followers who are called to a life of learning, service, and sacrifice, while the multitude encompasses a broader audience that encounters Jesus' ministry in various ways. Both groups play a significant role in the unfolding account of Jesus' life and mission.