Today we will talk about why did Jesus have disciples. Many Christians do not know what this means. Jesus had a very intentional reason for choosing disciples that extended beyond just having companionship; it was about building a community that could share, learn, and spread His teachings. This relationship was rooted in love, education, and spiritual growth, fulfilling a divine purpose in God’s plan for humanity. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word.
Why Did Jesus Have Disciples
The Purpose of Discipleship
Discipleship is a fundamental aspect of Jesus’ ministry. The Greek word for disciple, “mathētēs,” literally means “learner” or “follower.” This denotes a strong emphasis on not only learning from Jesus’ teachings but also living them out in everyday life. Jesus wanted regular people to not only witness His miracles but also to understand the heart behind them, thereby empowering them to teach others. Jesus demonstrated an active approach to His ministry by choosing twelve disciples, individuals with diverse backgrounds such as fishermen, tax collectors, and zealots—who would represent various facets of Jewish life.
The disciples were not merely student-teacher relationships; they were about transformation. The Hebrew term “talmid” captures the essence of what it means to be a disciple more fully. A “talmid” was expected to demonstrate an intimate relationship with the teacher, reflecting their character and teachings. This connection transformed their lives and how they interacted with others. Likewise, Jesus aimed for His disciples to embody His teachings and be agents of His love in the world.
In full, Jesus sought disciples not just for numbers but for making a lasting impact. His aim was to unite them as a team that would carry forward His mission after His ascension. This would ultimately lead to the Great Commission, as seen in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus instructs His followers to “go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” A movement was set in motion that continues today, emphasizing the importance of community and shared faith among believers.
Bible References: Matthew 4:19, Mark 1:17, Luke 6:12-13, John 1:35-51, Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8, 2:42-47.
Building Personal Relationships
Discipleship was about personal relationships that lead to transformation. Jesus spent time with His disciples over three years, forming strong bonds. He shared meals with them, had conversations about life and faith, and walked alongside them through the uncertainties of ministry. The Greek word “koinonia,” which means fellowship or communion, emphasizes this deep connection. Jesus definitely understood the power of community; He brought these individuals together to encourage, challenge, and sharpen one another.
In actual practice, we see this fellowship frequently through accounts in the Gospels. For example, during the Last Supper, Jesus took the time to express His love and affection for His disciples (John 13:1). Even in moments of distress or doubt, like when Peter walked on water and began to sink (Matthew 14:30), Jesus was right there to save him. Through all these experiences, Jesus demonstrated that spiritual growth often happens within the context of genuine relationships. By fostering an environment where open dialogue and mutual accountability flourished, the disciples were molded into leaders who reflected the heart of Christ.
Bible References: John 13:1-17, Matthew 14:22-33, Luke 22:19-20, Acts 2:44-47, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Hebrews 10:24-25.
Learning from Jesus’ Teachings
Why did Jesus have disciples? So they could learn from Him directly. His teachings were revolutionary and challenged the social norms of the time. The parables He used were engaging and relatable, often based on everyday experiences that would resonate with the audience. This method made His lessons memorable and impactful. Through these discussions, the disciples not only absorbed knowledge but began to see things through the lens of faith.
Using the methods of storytelling and questioning allowed Jesus to lead his disciples into deeper understanding. For instance, when asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus responded with love—something He exemplified throughout His ministry (Mark 12:28-31). Each teaching revealed God’s character and the expectations He had for His followers. The disciples observed these lessons in real-time as Jesus interacted with individuals from all walks of life, from the marginalized to religious authorities.
Furthermore, moments of teaching were complemented by practices of prayer and reflection, giving the disciples an opportunity to internalize and personalize the truths they learned. Jesus often took time to pray alone, modeling the necessity of connecting with God (Luke 5:16). This created a rhythm of life in which disciples were not merely passive recipients but active participants in their spiritual growth. Their development aligned them with God’s broader purpose and deepened their understanding of what it meant to be Christ-like.
Bible References: Matthew 5:1-12, Luke 8:1-3, Matthew 22:34-40, Matthew 11:28-30, Luke 11:1-4, Colossians 3:16.
Commissioning for a Greater Purpose
As Jesus prepared for His departure, He commissioned His disciples to continue His work and take the message of salvation to all nations. This was not just about continued learning but also about teaching and spreading the Good News. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 emphasizes this purposeful sending out to make disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded. The job was now theirs to further the vision Jesus had started.
The disciples were uniquely equipped for this mission. Their experiences with Jesus had prepared them to lead communities, face challenges, and spread the Gospel fearlessly. Historically, this began the exponential growth of the early church, as seen in the Book of Acts. Each disciple took on a specific role aligning with their gifts, resulting in powerful testimonies, miracles, and teachings (Acts 2:42-47). This moment reinforced the collective responsibility among believers, encouraging them to share their faith actively.
This commissioning also highlights the significance of continuity in faith. Jesus desired His followers, and generations to come, to carry forward His love and teachings. As members of the body of Christ, we share in this mission today. Discipleship is not just a role for a select few but an invitation for all believers to partake in sharing, teaching, and living out the message of Jesus in their own spheres of influence.
Bible References: Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8, Acts 2:42, 2 Timothy 2:2, Mark 16:15, John 20:21.
Transformation Through Trial
Discipleship isn’t just about the joy of following Jesus; trials and challenges often play a significant role in spiritual growth. Jesus led His disciples through difficult moments, teaching them perseverance and faith amid adversity. During the storms, He calmed the waves (Matthew 14:22-33) and showed them that fear could be conquered with faith. Each challenge was an opportunity for strengthening their trust in God, reshaping their understanding of who He is and how He works.
In this light, we can see the importance of allowing the disciples to grapple with questions and doubts—so they learned through experience instead of merely hearing teachings. For example, Thomas, often referred to as “Doubting Thomas,” wanted tangible proof of Jesus’ resurrection (John 20:24-29). Jesus welcomed this doubt, provided reassurance, and offered a deeper faith through his questions. This demonstrates that genuine faith can coexist with struggles; it’s in those trials we often find opportunities for our faith to grow.
Terence Chihirongwe beautifully explains that the Christian journey is one of continuous transformation, rooted in challenges that mold us. By engaging in trials together, the disciples could lean on each other for support, strengthening the bonds of unity that Jesus intended. In turn, their experiences prepared them to lead others through their struggles, ultimately reflecting Jesus’ love and resilience.
Bible References: Matthew 14:27-31, John 20:24-29, James 1:2-4, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, 1 Peter 1:6-7, Romans 5:3-4.
Final Thoughts
Jesus had heartfelt reasons for choosing disciples. From building personal relationships to equipping them for service, every aspect contributed to greater plans. Their journey was about transformation, learning, and commissioning for a significant mission. Together, we can reflect on how this call extends beyond His immediate followers into our lives today.
As we consider our own paths, we too can become disciples who learn, grow, and serve others in Christ’s name. Just like the first disciples, we are called to engage deeply in our faith, share our experiences, and make an impact on the world around us.
This journey of discipleship is not limited to yesterday; it continues as we embrace our role in furthering God’s kingdom through love, faith, and action.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4