Jesus Calles His First Disciple

Three-Week Bible Study Series: Discipleship – Following Christ and Making Disciples

Series Theme

"Following Jesus, Becoming Like Jesus, and Helping Others Follow Jesus"

Series Purpose

To understand the biblical meaning of discipleship, examine how Jesus modeled it, discover the origins and usage of the word "disciple," and establish a repeatable method that every believer can use to grow and make disciples.

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WEEK 1: WHAT IS A DISCIPLE?

Key Text

Matthew 4:18-22

"Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."

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Opening Question

What comes to mind when you hear the word "disciple"?

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Biblical Definition

Greek Word

μαθητής (Mathētēs)

Meaning:

• Learner

• Student

• Apprentice

• One who follows a teacher to become like him

The word appears over 260 times in the New Testament.

A disciple was more than a student gathering information; he was someone who patterned his entire life after his teacher.

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Biblical Origins

The concept of discipleship existed before Jesus.

Old Testament Foundations

Deuteronomy 6:4-9

Parents were instructed to teach God's commands diligently.

2 Kings 2:1-15

Elijah discipled Elisha through relationship, observation, and mentoring.

Proverbs

A father continually teaches his son wisdom.

The Jewish rabbis commonly gathered disciples who followed them closely.

Jesus adopted this model and transformed it.

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How Christ Exemplified Discipleship

1. He Called People Personally

Matthew 4:19

"Follow Me."

Jesus did not recruit volunteers for a program.

He invited people into a relationship.

2. He Modeled What He Taught

John 13:13-15

Jesus washed the disciples' feet before commanding them to serve.

3. He Shared Life

Mark 3:14

"He appointed twelve that they might be with Him..."

Before ministry came relationship.

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Characteristics of a Disciple

Luke 9:23

A disciple:

• Denies self

• Takes up the cross

• Follows Jesus daily

John 8:31

A disciple continues in Christ's Word.

John 13:35

A disciple is identified by love.

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Repeatable Teaching Method (Part 1)

The FOLLOW Model

F – Fix your eyes on Jesus

Hebrews 12:2

O – Obey His Word

John 14:15

L – Learn His ways

Matthew 11:29

L – Love others intentionally

John 13:34-35

O – Offer your life in service

Mark 10:45

W – Witness and make disciples

Matthew 28:19-20

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Discussion Questions

1. How is a disciple different from a church attendee?

2. What did Jesus mean by "Follow Me"?

3. Which characteristic of discipleship challenges you most?

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Weekly Application

Read one Gospel chapter daily and ask:

1. What did Jesus do?

2. What did Jesus teach?

3. How can I imitate Him today?