The concept of discipleship is central to the Christian faith, rooted deeply in the teachings and life of Jesus Christ. The term "disciple" originates from the Greek word "mathētēs," meaning a learner or follower. In the New Testament, discipleship begins with the calling of the first disciples by Jesus and extends to the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations.

The Call of the First Disciples

The beginning of discipleship is marked by Jesus' invitation to His first followers. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus calls Simon Peter and his brother Andrew, saying, "Come, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19). This call is characterized by immediacy and total commitment, as they "left their nets and followed Him" (Matthew 4:20). Similarly, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, are called and respond by leaving their boat and father to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:21-22).

In the Gospel of John, the narrative provides additional insight into the relational aspect of discipleship. John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the "Lamb of God," prompting two of his disciples to follow Jesus (John 1:35-37). One of these, Andrew, brings his brother Simon Peter to Jesus, illustrating the evangelistic nature of discipleship (John 1:40-42).

Characteristics of Discipleship

Discipleship in the New Testament is marked by several key characteristics. First, it involves a personal relationship with Jesus. The disciples are called to be with Him, to learn from His teachings, and to witness His works. This relationship is transformative, as seen in the lives of the disciples who are changed by their time with Jesus.

Second, discipleship requires a willingness to forsake all for the sake of Christ. 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 is a recurring theme in the Gospels.

Third, discipleship involves obedience to Jesus' commands. In the Great Commission, Jesus instructs His followers to "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" (Matthew 28:19-20). This underscores the importance of teaching and adherence to Jesus' teachings as integral to the discipleship process.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The beginning of discipleship is also closely linked to the work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as a Helper and Guide for His disciples, stating, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you" (John 14:26). The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out their faith and fulfill the mission of making disciples.

The Early Church and Discipleship

The Book of Acts provides a narrative of how the early church embraced and expanded the concept of discipleship. Following the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the apostles boldly proclaim the Gospel, leading to the conversion and discipleship of many (Acts 2:41-42). The early church is characterized by communal living, devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, all of which are foundational to the life of a disciple (Acts 2:42).

In summary, the beginning of discipleship is a profound and transformative journey initiated by Jesus' call to follow Him. It involves a personal relationship with Christ, a commitment to His teachings, and a life empowered by the Holy Spirit. The early church exemplifies the continuation and expansion of this call, as believers are equipped to make disciples of all nations, fulfilling the Great Commission.