What is the difference between a disciple and an apostle?

The word “disciple” is from the Latin word discipulus and means one who is a student of another. This is also expressed by the fact that those who came to learn from the Lord about the Kingdom of God called Him Rabbi (Jn. 1:49), Master (Lk. 5:5) and Teacher (Mk. 4:38), even those who tried to trick Him (cf. Mt. 22:24).

Not all disciples, however, are “apostles”, from the Greek word apostolos, meaning messenger. While an apostle, in a general sense, is anyone who takes what is learned and spreads the message to others, in Scripture it refers only to the “Twelve.” These Apostles were specifically commissioned by Christ to go out and spread the Good News (Mt. 28:18-20) to the ends of the earth. Their ministry continues to this day, through the bishops appointed to pastor Christ’s flock until He comes again.