WHAT’S A DISCIPLE?

A disciple is a student, or follower, of a teacher, leader, or philosopher.  Its Latin root, discipulus, is related to the word disciplina, meaning “instruction,” or “knowledge.”  The relationship between the two is evident: the teacher provides the discipline, or knowledge, that is the basis for the way of life sought after by the teacher’s students or followers.

But especially when the teacher or leader is an individual, there is another bond between teacher and student: a bond of admiration, affection, even love.  It is this level of discipline which is shared between Jesus and his disciples, whether those of the first century or of any period since.  To be “just another disciple” is to be one of the countless multitude of those who are drawn by love and strive to be disciples, faithful followers, of Christ.  Perhaps you also are “just another disciple”?