Discipleship is a word that is so common in the Christian world that
has taken so much of varied meanings and forms. Interpreted in so many
ways and presented in so many shapes and colors and forms. To some
extent, this word has become an institution in itself. But it is always good
to get back to its origin to shed light as to what it really is and to see as
well what have this become in our time today. Seeing the distinction
between each times would give us a better understanding of its real
meaning and value and intention even for us today.

Looking up its meaning from our contemporary dictionary today, we
find that it as a state of “attempting to follow” a teacher and for the
Christians, it is a state of attempting to follow Jesus Christ. The word disciple
from the Greek language is mathetes which comes from the verb
manthano, to learn, hence its meaning 'one who follows one's teaching.' In
the sense used it also implies not just one who follows teaching but also
imitates the teacher.

Discipleship in the olden days are very much different from what we see discipleship today.
Discipleship now to some, if not for the most, is going to a class or lectures or seminars
and studying about the bible or teachings. To some, it is a set of things that need to be
acquired in order to qualify them for the service in the ministry of God. But in the olden
days, discipleship is done with students living with their teacher.
They live in a common place, eating together doing things together.
This could be seen when the first apostles were called (John 1:38-39).

But today, it is no longer this way. To most, it is because such procedures are no longer
practical and almost impossible to do. It is not to say that we copy of what was done before,
but even the old ways in themselves hold a great principles by which even us today can
get hold on and live by such principles. What do we mean by that? Discipleship in those
days are done that way not only because of the cultural background (being communal)
but because there is such a great spiritual principle underlying it.

  Pastor Sonny Hardman
  (Discipleship in-Charge)