Christian Disciples walking with Jesus

Who Are Christian Disciples?

Christian Disciples. Have you ever found yourself wondering, who they are and what they do? First, what is a Christian disciple? How were the terms “Christian” and “Christian disciple” affected by Jesus’ ministry and Jesus’ resurrection?

Let’s begin on the origin of the terms “Christian” and “disciple.” In Strong’s Online Concordance, a disciple is a learner or pupil. Jesus referred to His followers as Christian disciples. Disciples were being taught by Him and learned about the Kingdom of God. Sound familiar? They were pupils in Jesus’ School of Supernatural Ministry. After Jesus’ resurrection, one of many supernatural events, He sent the disciples out as Apostles to the nations on the “Great Commission.”

Followers of Christ

On the other hand, one of the Greek meanings for “Christian” is “follower of Christ.” “Christian” is found in the Bible three times. Did you know that in Acts chapter 11 verse 2, the disciples were called “Christians” (by the pagans) first at Antioch? The disciples didn’t call each other Christians. In fact, hey used apostolic offices or family terms to refer to each other. It was the Pagans who used “Christian” to make fun of those who believed in Jesus’ ministry. Believe it or not, It was used as a disrespectful name-calling adjective.

Religion is “a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.”

You might ask, how are Christians different from Christian disciples? When using “Christian” as a noun, it refers to one who has accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Someone who lives a Christian life, or the teachings of Jesus, and is not religious. Religion is “a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” Whereas, Christian disciples practice, live and share the teachings of Jesus. God doesn’t honor religion. God honors relationship. And, having God’s Spirit brings us into relationship with Him. To sum things up, the difference between a “Christian” and a “Christian disciple” is simple. A disciple is called to be a servant. Read more about when Jesus used the mustard seed parable to compare the church to the world.

Christians Today

Today, Christian disciples with spiritual gifts and talents still share and spread the Gospel of Jesus. Apostles, Pastors, Prophets, Evangelists, teachers and others work hard behind the scenes all the time, everywhere. Followers and disciples alike can utilize Christian life resources for the “Great Commission” through video media technology. For example, at KNCB.org, everyone is welcome to enjoy sermon video on demand or listen to podcasts about the Gospel. Visit the many channels at GodSent TV, SayAmen TV, and more.

Most importantly,Christians and disciples are the same in one respect. They have faith in God and are not ashamed of the Gospel. The paganistic “put down” was a divine setup for a future “going up.” As stated by Joseph after what his brothers did to him, in Genesis chapter 50 verse 20, “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good….”

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©Minister Vivian Caine – All Rights Reserved


Tags: disciples of Christ | followers of Jesus. | Gospel of Jesus

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