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DISCIPLE . The
Gr. word matheµteµs for disciple used nearly 270 times in the Gospels
and Acts denotes a pupil who submits to processes of learning under a
teacher. The Gr. has entered the English language in the term mathematics,
which means literally, "disposed to learn." In Attic prose, notably in
Plato, it alludes to the students trained by a philosopher or rhetorician.
The concept prevailed in the OT with "sons of the prophets," understudies of
Samuel, Elijah, and Elisha, and later, Paul, "brought up at the feet of
Gamaliel." In the NT, the term is used of the disciples of John the Baptist
(Mt 9:14), the Pharisees (Mk 2:18), and Moses, indicating latter day
adherents of his teachings (Jn 9:28).
In the epistles the
term mimeµteµs, "follower," "imitator," occurs in exhortations to
pattern one’s life after God (Eph 5:1), the writer as an apostle (I Cor
4:16; 11:1; Phil 3:17; II Thess 3:7, 9), and other believers (Heb 6:12;
13:7). See Example.
In a broad sense,
Jesus used "disciple" as descriptive of all His followers coming under the
influence of His teaching, striving to conform to His principles. Luke
refers to "the whole multitude of the disciples" (19:37). In Acts 6:2 he
states that the Twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples. Jesus said,
"If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed" (Jn 8:31).
Jesus’ disciples then and ever are those who respond to His invitation,
"Learn of me "(Mt 11:29).
In a restricted
sense, disciple (also apostle) applies to the inner circle of the Twelve,
called out of the greater company that they might be with Christ, hear Him
expound the mysteries of the kingdom reserved for a select group, witness
and later perform authenticating signs and wonders, and proclaim the gospel
to the world.
The Twelve were as
follows: Simon Peter, Andrew, James of Zebedee, John, Philip, Nathanael
(also known as Bartholomew), Thomas, Matthew (called Levi), James of
Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot or Canaanite, Judas the brother of James and
sometimes called Thaddaeus, and Judas Iscariot.
Although lacking in
higher education, as Hebrews they had a thorough grounding in the doctrines
and history of their faith. Their obtuseness tried but never exhausted the
patience of Jesus, who is no less forbearing with our limitations in His
service. Their very dullness of comprehension constitutes an apologetic for
the historical validity of what the Gospels relate concerning Jesus. Dr. A.B.
Bruce said: "They were slow-minded persons, very honest but very unapt to
take in new ideas....We know that nothing but facts could make such men
believe that which nowadays they get credit for inventing."
Bibliography.
G. Kittel, "Akolutheoµ", TDNT, I, 210–216. K.H. Rengstorf, "Manthanoµ",
etc., TDNT, IV, 390–461.
G. H. T.
Wycliffe Bible
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