Differences between Apostle and Disciple
Apostle vs. Disciple
In Christian theology, the terms apostle and disciple refer to followers of Jesus Christ. While related and sometimes used interchangeably, they carry distinct meanings. A disciple is broadly any follower or student of a teacher, whereas an apostle is one who is specifically chosen and sent out with a message and the authority of the sender.[1][2] All apostles were disciples, but only a small number of disciples were commissioned as apostles.[3]
The word disciple originates from the Greek mathētḗs, meaning a learner, pupil, or adherent who actively imitates the life and teachings of a master. The[4][5] term appears frequently in the Gospels and the Book of Acts, referring not only to Jesus's closest followers but also to a wider group of people who believed in his teachings.
In[4] contrast, apostle comes from the Greek apóstolos, which translates to "one who is sent" or a messenger. This[5] term designates a specific role and authority. The New Testament primarily applies the title to the twelve disciples Jesus selected to be his closest companions and to establish the early Christian church. After his resurrection, Jesus sent them out to spread his teachings, a task known as the Great Commission.
The criteria for apostleship, particularly for replacing Judas Iscariot, included having been a witness to Jesus's entire earthly ministry and his resurrection, as well as being directly chosen by Christ. Paul[3] of Tarsus is also considered an apostle, as he claimed to have seen the resurrected Jesus and received a direct commission from him.
[5]= Comparison Table =
| Category | Apostle | Disciple |
|---|---|---|
| Etymology | From the Greek apóstolos, meaning "one who is sent" or "messenger." | From[5] the Greek mathētḗs, meaning "learner," "student," or "follower." |
| [4][5]Primary Role | To be a messenger sent with the authority to preach, establish churches, and spread the teachings of Jesus. | To learn[2] from a teacher, follow their teachings, and imitate their way of life. |
| [4]Number | Primarily the twelve chosen by Jesus, plus Matthias (who replaced Judas) and Paul. | An unspecified,[3] larger number of followers, including but not limited to the twelve. |
| [4][5]Selection | Specifically chosen and commissioned directly by Jesus Christ or the Holy Spirit. | Generally[3] refers to anyone who voluntarily chooses to follow Jesus and learn his teachings. |
| Key Requirement | To have been an eyewitness to the resurrected Jesus Christ and directly commissioned by him. | Belief[3] in Jesus and a commitment to following his teachings. |
| Authority | Held a foundational leadership role with special authority in the early church. | Did not[1] inherently carry a special leadership authority; the focus was on learning and personal growth. |
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "study.com". Retrieved December 06, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "biblehub.com". Retrieved December 06, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 "ligonier.org". Retrieved December 06, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved December 06, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 "bartehrman.com". Retrieved December 06, 2025.
