The meaning of “μαθητής”
Understanding mathētḗs reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
disciple. - a learner, i.e. pupil
μαθητής
disciple. - a learner, i.e. pupil
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 16:24 | “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Word: μαθητής (mathētḗs) | |
| Mark 8:33 | “But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.” Word: μαθητής (mathētḗs) | |
| Luke 9:54 | “And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?” Word: μαθητής (mathētḗs) | |
| John 13:22 | “Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.” Word: μαθητής (mathētḗs) | |
| Acts 14:22 | “Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” Word: μαθητής (mathētḗs) |
Theological Word Study: Disciple
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Disciple, learner
The Greek mathētēs (μαθητής) means disciple or learner—one who follows a teacher. Jesus called His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24), learning from Him continually.