Wuest

DISCIPLE. From the Greek verb manthanoµ which means "to learn, to be apprised of, to increase one's knowledge," there are derived the words mathetes which means "a learner, a pupil, one who follows the teaching of someone else," thus, a disciple; and matheteuoµ which means "to follow the precepts and instructions of another," thus to be his disciple; also, "to make a disciple, to teach, to instruct."

We must be careful to note that the Greek word for "disciple" does not carry with it the idea that that person who is named a disciple is necessarily a saved person. The word does not contain any implications of salvation. A person may learn something from someone else and yet not put that knowledge into practice or make it a part of his life. See John 6:66 in its context for an example of an unsaved disciple, and Matthew 10:1, for an illustration of saved (the eleven) and unsaved (Judas) discipleship. The word merely refers to one who puts himself under the teaching of someone else and learns from him. For the noun, see your English concordance. The verb is found in Mt. 13:52 (instructed), 27:57, 28:19 (teach); Acts 14:21 (taught). In the case of the word "disciple" the context must rule as to whether the particular disciple mentioned, is saved or unsaved, not the word itself.

The Path to Godliness Leads through the Valley of Suffering

1 Peter 5:8-10 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.

Rejoice in the midst of Sufferings

1 Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 1:6-7 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith--more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire--may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.