The term "disciples" in the context of the New Testament primarily refers to the followers of Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. The word "disciple" comes from the Greek word "mathētēs," meaning a learner or pupil. In the Gospels, the disciples are those who were called by Jesus to follow Him, learn from His teachings, and witness His works.

The Twelve Apostles

Among the disciples, Jesus selected twelve men to be His closest followers, known as the apostles. These twelve were Simon Peter, James and John (the sons of Zebedee), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew (also known as Nathanael), Matthew (the tax collector), Thomas, James (the son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus (also known as Judas, son of James), Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who later betrayed Jesus. The calling of the twelve is recorded in several passages, including Matthew 10:1-4, Mark 3:13-19, and Luke 6:12-16.

Role and Mission

The primary role of the disciples was to be with Jesus, to learn from Him, and to be sent out to preach the Gospel. In Mark 3:14-15 , it is stated, "He appointed twelve, whom He named apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons." The disciples were witnesses to Jesus' teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection, and they played a crucial role in the early spread of Christianity.

Characteristics of Discipleship

Discipleship in the New Testament is characterized by several key elements:

1. Commitment: Jesus called His disciples to a life of total commitment. In Luke 9:23 , Jesus said, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me."

2. Learning and Obedience: Disciples were expected to learn from Jesus and obey His teachings. In John 8:31 , Jesus said, "If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples."

3. Love: A defining mark of discipleship is love for one another. Jesus instructed His disciples in John 13:34-35 , "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another."

4. Bearing Fruit: Disciples are called to bear spiritual fruit. In John 15:8 , Jesus said, "This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, proving yourselves to be My disciples."

The Great Commission

After His resurrection, Jesus gave the Great Commission to His disciples, instructing them to make disciples of all nations. In Matthew 28:19-20 , He commanded, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

The Early Church

The disciples played a foundational role in the establishment of the early Church. The Book of Acts records their activities, including the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2), the preaching of the Gospel, and the formation of Christian communities. The apostles, particularly Peter and Paul, were instrumental in spreading Christianity beyond Jewish communities to the Gentile world.

Legacy

The legacy of the disciples is seen in the growth and spread of Christianity throughout the world. Their teachings, preserved in the New Testament, continue to guide and inspire Christians today. The model of discipleship established by Jesus and His followers remains central to Christian life and practice, emphasizing commitment, learning, love, and the mission to share the Gospel.