According to Bro. Eli, being a disciple transcends the dictionary definition, it is the act of learning and practicing the teachings of the Lord Jesus. “Disciple” comes from the Latin word “discipulus”, which means "student, learner, or follower." ( reference ) What does it mean to be a follower or a student?
I was privileged to pass through the three major stages of education, which are the primary, secondary, and tertiary stages of learning, also known as the primary school, secondary school, and university. During my years of study, I discovered that being a student has its requirements at different levels, and the mode of evaluation at these levels also differs. Even within these schools, one must go through several classes to guarantee progress and promotion. The requirements for each stage get tougher. But as I got promoted, I discovered that I am able to serve as a guide for my juniors because I know what they don't, and I also learn from those who have gone ahead of me (my seniors), because they know what I don’t. What qualified me as a student was my knowledge of all the subjects I was taught, and once I could prove that I was ready for the next level through my performance in exams, I got promoted. Thus, being a student based on this scenario was because of my ability to display knowledge and the ability to pass my exams. I had several challenges during my school days, but that never stopped me from having the determination to get to the next level. Even when I failed, I retook the classes. How does this apply to being a disciple?
Luke 9:23–24 gives a summary of Jesus’ perspective on the qualities of a true disciple, considering himself or herself a true follower. According to the verse, a true disciple should “deny himself”, “take up his cross daily”, and “follow him”. Summing these requirements as “losing their lives”, Jesus said that, in the end, He will save all that can meet the standards. I believe what makes a true disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ, or what qualifies one, includes dedication to the word, Christlikeness, knowledge, and application of the word in deed. In addition, Acts 11:26 highlighted how the disciples were recognized as Christians based on their actions and behavior, not because they said they were Christians, as we often experience today. What makes a true disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ is not how much introduction we can do about ourselves, but following the guidelines stated by Bro. Eli and corroborated in this piece.