What’s the Difference Between a Christian and a Disciple?
Published May 10th, 2019
A simple answer is that being a Christian is a choice while being a disciple is a commitment.
But the real difference between these two words can’t be summed up in just a few words. Though similar, being a Christian and a being a disciple are two entirely different things. Just how different are they? Let’s find out.
What the Bible Says
The term “Christian” appeared in the new testament three times. One is when the term was first used to refer to Jesus’ disciples.
The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. -Acts 11:26
This line tells us that the word wasn’t given by Christ himself. He probably didn’t even hear of it when he was still living with the apostles. Note that it says they “were called” instead of they “called themselves”. It implies that the word was first used by non-believers to refer to the first disciples.
Another is when King Agrippa challenged the apostle Paul to convert him.
Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” -Acts 26:28
There is no mention that St. Paul challenged his use of the term. Therefore, we can only surmise that it was widely used and that the apostles and first disciples embraced it.
The third time that the term appeared in the scriptures is in the epistles of St. Peter.
However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. -1 Peter 4:16
If St. Peter have to tell people to never be ashamed of being a Christian, then it only means that the term had negative connotations. Yet the apostles took pride in being called one.
The word “disciple”, on the other hand, was used way before Jesus was born. It was first written down by a Greek historian to refer to a learner or apprentice. It’s no surprise then that it appeared around 281 times in the new testament. Even Jesus himself used the term in his preaching.
He said to them, “Therefore every teacher of the law who has become a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old.” -Matthew 13:52
He also told us what it takes to be called his disciple:
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. -Matthew 16:24
This emphasizes three important points in discipleship:
- deny themselves – a true disciple must be ready to leave everything behind
- take up their cross – to not be afraid of suffering or persecution
- follow me – to walk in his footsteps
Are You a Christian or a Disciple?
In the modern times, both terms can be used to refer to someone who follows Christ’s teachings. But the term “Christian” has become more of a religious identification rather than referring to one’s action. Those who see Christ as their personal savior and accepts the tenets of Christianity can be called a Christian. In short, anybody can claim to be a “Christian” but only few deserves to be called a “disciple”.
So here’s some food for thought: Would you rather be called a Christian or a disciple?
(Related: Top Frugal Living Tips For Christians)
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About The Author
Judy Ponio is a professional writer for the Lay Cistercians blog and a devoted Catholic. She works hard to ensure her work uses accurate facts by cross checking reputable sources.
