WordGarden.iodiscipleship
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dɪsˈaɪpəlʃˌɪp/
US
- /dɪsˈaɪpəlʃˌɪp/
Meanings
Noun
the religious practice of following and growing as a disciple
the condition or process of learning from and following a teacher or mentor
Beyond the definition
Discipleship isn't just about believing in someone—it's about learning to live like them through intentional following and practice. Think of the first disciples of Jesus: they didn't just agree with his teachings; they chose to walk alongside him, observe his life, and learn from his example.
Discipleship can happen in many contexts—a master craftsperson teaching an apprentice, a mentor guiding a young professional, or a dedicated student learning from a beloved professor. It's about more than just information; it's transformation. The word is most at home in religious settings, especially within Christianity, but people sometimes use it more broadly to describe serious, long-term learning under a guide. You might say someone is "in discipleship" under a spiritual leader or within a faith community.
Discipleship describes a process of intentional learning and following, typically involving a teacher, mentor, or spiritual guide. It is tied to the idea of a "disciple"—someone who chooses to follow a teacher closely and learn through life and practice, famously in the context of Jesus and his followers. However, discipleship can also be used more loosely outside religious contexts.
At its heart, discipleship is about commitment. A disciple isn't a passive observer; they are an active participant willing to change their beliefs, behaviors, and lifestyle to align with the teachings of their mentor. It's not simply knowing what someone believes, but becoming like them in character and practice.
Historically, discipleship was often a long-term apprenticeship where students lived alongside their teachers, absorbing knowledge through observation and direct instruction. Today, it can take many forms: formal mentorship programs, small group studies focused on specific teachings, or even informal relationships built on mutual respect and guidance.
Within Christianity, discipleship is central to the faith, emphasizing a lifelong journey of growth in Christlikeness. But the principle applies anywhere someone dedicates themselves to learning from and emulating another—a musician studying under a master violinist, an entrepreneur mentored by a successful business leader, or even a young athlete training with a seasoned coach.
Ultimately, discipleship is about transformation through committed following—a journey of growth guided by a trusted teacher and fueled by a desire to become something more.
Examples
- 1
Faith journey
In their church, discipleship is seen as a lifelong process, not a short course.
- 2
Church group
After he was baptized, he joined a discipleship group that met every Wednesday night.
- Phrasediscipleship group
a small group for learning and growing in faith
- 3
Mentorship
Years of discipleship under an older pastor gave her the confidence to lead others.
- Patterndiscipleship under + person
training and guidance received from that person
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- discipleshipnoun