μαθητεύω (mathēteuō)
mathēteuō
to disciple
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb mathēteuō describes the active process of making someone a disciple. It appears only four times in the New Testament, primarily in Matthew and Acts. In its most famous occurrence, Jesus commands his followers to "make disciples" of all nations (Matthew 28:19). This usage is transitive, meaning it requires an object: one makes another person a learner or follower.
The word derives from mathētēs, which means a student or pupil. While mathētēs identifies the person, mathēteuō captures the action of training them. It implies more than just sharing information; it involves instruction and guidance in following specific precepts. The sources note that this sense of "training" is consistent with how the term was used in contemporary Greek literature to describe apprenticeship.
In Acts 14:21, the verb describes Paul and Barnabas strengthening the disciples after facing opposition. Here, the focus is on deepening their commitment through teaching. The word also appears in a passive sense in Matthew 27:57, where Joseph of Arimathea is described as having become a disciple of Jesus, indicating his acceptance of instruction. Translators typically render this verb as "make disciples" or "disciple," preserving the active nature of the command.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mathēteuō points to the active work of guiding others into a life of learning and following Jesus. It is not merely about sharing facts, but about walking alongside someone as they grow in their understanding of God’s truth. This process mirrors an apprenticeship, where experience and instruction go hand in hand.
When we look at the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, we see this command given to all believers. It invites us to be patient teachers who help others discover the depth of Christ’s love. Whether you are new to faith or have walked with Him for years, this call reminds us that spiritual growth is a shared journey.
Even in moments of difficulty, like Paul and Barnabas strengthening disciples after facing opposition (Acts 14:21), we see that making disciples involves encouragement and steadfast teaching. This word encourages us to invest time in others, knowing that every step of guidance helps build a stronger foundation for their faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- was discipled1×
- having discipled1×
- having been discipled1×
- do disciple1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐμαθητεύθη1×
- μαθητεύσατε1×
- μαθητεύσαντες1×
- μαθητευθεὶς1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 28:19
Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
This verse contains the primary command where Jesus defines the scope of disciple-making as extending to all nations, establishing it as the central mission of the church.
-
Acts 14:21
When they had preached the Good News to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch,
Here the word describes the practical action of strengthening believers through teaching after they faced persecution, showing that discipleship includes perseverance and instruction.
-
Matthew 13:52
He said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been made a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who is a householder, who brings out of his treasure new and old things.”
This occurrence highlights the result of being made a disciple, where one brings forth both new insights and traditional wisdom from their spiritual treasure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does mathēteuō mean in the New Testament?
How is this word different from simply teaching?
Where does this word appear in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (4 verses across 2 books)
Matthew 3 verses
He said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been made a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who is a…
Matthew 27:57When evening had come, a rich man from Arimathaea named Joseph, who himself was also Jesus’ disciple, came.
Matthew 28:19Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,