The Equipment of Disciples according to the Gospel of Matthew

The Equipment of Disciples according to the Gospel of Matthew

Simon CHOW

In response to the popular phrase “equipping the saints” in today's context, this paper aims to explore how disciples are equipped in the Gospel of Matthew in order to provide some guidance for today. The Gospel of Matthew was chosen because it was the most commonly Gospel used in the early church, and its content is likely representative of the formation of disciples in that time.

The paper commences with an examination of the roles of “teacher/master” and “disciple/pupil” in the Old Testament and the Greco-Roman context, before delving into the Gospel of Matthew. It argues that a disciple's role is not merely about learning (manthanein) in the sense of acquiring knowledge, but about following (akoluthein) in the sense of commitment as a follower to the master. The idea of learning through service in Matthew is consistent with the Old Testament practice, as demonstrated in the case of Moses and Joshua, and the case of Elijah and Elisha. This is a fundamental aspect of “equipping the saints.”

Regarding the goal of “equipment,” the author emphasizes the Matthean view of the great commandment in the law, which is to love God with all one's heart and to love one's neighbor as oneself. This can be summarized in three aspects: (1) fear the Lord and live like Christ; (2) establish the church and pursue unity; and (3) make disciples and glorify God.

In short, Matthew clarifies that the nature of “equipment” must begin with a commitment to Christ rather than with acquiring knowledge and skills.