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What does the Bible say about discipleship?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that discipleship is following Jesus in faith, submitting every part of life to his lordship, and growing into his likeness by grace. Jesus calls his people to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow him (Luke 9:23; Luke 14:27, 33). In Matthew 28:18-20, the risen Christ commands the church to make disciples through baptism and teaching obedience to all he has commanded. True disciples abide in his word and know the liberating truth (John 8:31-32), love one another visibly (John 13:34-35), and shine before the world through good works (Matthew 5:14-16). Christ also equips disciples to teach faithful believers who will teach others (2 Timothy 2:2).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Matthew 28:18-20

    [18] Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. [19] Therefore go, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.

  • Luke 14:27

    Whoever doesn't bear his own cross, and come after me, can't be my disciple.

  • Luke 9:23

    He said to all, "If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.

  • 2 Timothy 2:2

    The things which you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit the same to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.

  • John 8:31-32

    [31] Jesus therefore said to those Jews who had believed him, "If you remain in my word, then you are truly my disciples. [32] You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free."

  • Luke 14:33

    So therefore whoever of you who doesn't renounce all that he has, he can't be my disciple.

  • Luke 6:40

    A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.

  • John 13:34-35

    [34] A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just like I have loved you; that you also love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

  • Matthew 5:14-16

    [14] You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill can't be hidden. [15] Neither do you light a lamp, and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house. [16] Even so, let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

  • Luke 14:26

    "If anyone comes to me, and doesn't hate his own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he can't be my disciple.

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