What Does It Really Mean to Be a Disciple?

Not just a learner, an apprentice.

This is what apprenticeship to Jesus looks like — not just belief, but bold steps of obedience.

In today’s culture, the word disciple often brings to mind a student, someone who learns about Jesus through books, sermons, and studies. And while learning is a good thing, discipleship in the way of Jesus was never limited to information.

In the first century, a disciple was more like an apprentice.

Think about someone learning to be a carpenter, a welder, or a mechanic. They don’t just take notes. They shadow someone. They watch, ask questions, try it for themselves, get their hands dirty, and slowly begin to do the work their mentor does.

This is the kind of life Jesus invited His disciples into.

When Jesus said, “Follow me,” He didn’t mean observe from a distance. He meant walk with Me, learn from Me, and do what I do.The disciples followed Him from place to place, watched how He lived, and then stepped into the same kind of mission themselves.

They weren’t attending a program. They were learning a way of life.

At Kingdom Life, we’re rediscovering that same rhythm.We believe a disciple is someone who grows through obedience, not just understanding, someone who learns best by doing, alongside others.

So what does that look like today?

It looks like:

• Walking closely with others who are a few steps ahead

• Taking real steps of obedience each week

• Serving, praying, inviting, and sharing your story

• Learning by imitation, not isolation

  
  

You don’t need a platform, a degree, or perfect answer. You need a willingness to say, “Yes, I’ll follow, and I’ll bring someone with me.”

Discipleship is apprenticeship to Jesus. It's not about knowing more. It’s about becoming more, like Him.