We can, of course, hear the same root as the word discipline, but the word "discipleship" has a kind of churchy quality to it, doesn't it? Have you ever heard the word uttered outside of a religious context? That doesn't mean that we shouldn't use it, necessarily, but I am not sure the word is particularly helpful. I know it sounds sacrilegious to say so, but I think people outside of a community of faith hear that word, they think of someone who is supposed to proselytize them. If we insist on using words that conjure up images that detract from Jesus' message, then we will never be able to establish relationships with the very people God is calling us to form healthy relationships.
I know, Jesus had twelve disciples who followed him during his life and ministry on earth, and that we, as followers of Christ, are also called to be "disciples" of Jesus. And I know that a disciple is a learner... one who follows ought to study the ways of the Master, then replicate their actions.
All this being said, I have lately been drawn to calling tasks of discipleship something else entirely. What if we instead called ourselves "APPRENTICES" of Jesus the Christ? For me, I find this much healthier word that illustrates what we are, and what we do, more effectively. It leaves the baggage of church jargon behind and allows us to make another connection with the culture that surrounds us.
Does anyone else share in this struggle? What do you think? Could this catch on?
