Why Did Jesus Have Disciples? A Deep Dive Into Christ’S Followers
If you’ve ever wondered why Jesus surrounded himself with a group of loyal followers known as his twelve disciples, you’re not alone. Discovering the reasons behind Christ’s inner circle can reveal invaluable insights into his ministry and mission.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Jesus chose disciples to spread his gospel message, train future church leaders, set an example of serving others, and witness his works firsthand.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the purpose and significance of Jesus’ disciples in depth. You’ll learn about how the twelve were chosen, their roles and responsibilities, their backgrounds and character, and how they helped shape the early Christian church after Christ’s death.
The Selection of the Disciples
The Calling of the First Disciples
Jesus began His ministry by calling a small group of disciples to follow Him. As Jesus walked along the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers – Simon (called Peter) and Andrew – casting a net into the sea. Jesus simply said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
Immediately, they left their nets and followed Him (Matthew 4:18-22). Just a bit farther, Jesus saw two other brothers – James and John – mending their nets with their father Zebedee. Again, with the simple call “Follow Me,” James and John immediately left their boat and their father behind.
It was quite astonishing! With no convincing arguments or promises of blessing, Jesus called these hard-working fishermen, and they abandoned their careers to follow a traveling preacher. Although they could not have fully understood it yet, they recognized Jesus’ authority and calling, and they responded in faith and obedience.
Jesus promised these first disciples that they would from now on be “fishing for people” – spreading the Gospel and bringing people into God’s Kingdom.
The Appointment of the Twelve Apostles
After ministering for some time, Jesus appointed twelve of His followers to be His core team of disciples. Mark 3:13-19 recounts this appointment. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to Him those He wanted. From His many disciples, He chose twelve men “whom He also designated apostles.”
The word “apostle” refers to one who is sent out as a delegate or messenger. These men would carry on Christ’s mission after He departed.
The Twelve Apostles were Simon Peter, James and John (the two brothers Jesus called from their fishing boat), Andrew (Peter’s brother), Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon (the Zealot), and Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus.
This group contained fishermen and tax collectors, zealous nationalists and mild-mannered followers, close friends (like Peter, James and John) and relative unknowns. It was a diverse group, but their common calling was to learn from Christ and carry the Gospel to the world.
The Roles and Duties of the Twelve
Spreading the Gospel
One of the primary responsibilities of the twelve disciples was to spread the good news of the kingdom of God to the world (Matthew 10:7). After spending time learning from Jesus, he commissioned them to go out and preach just as he did (Mark 3:14).
The disciples played a huge role in sharing the gospel throughout Israel, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth (Acts 1:8). They boldly proclaimed the message of salvation through Christ in the face of persecution and rejection.
The disciples set the example for all believers to share their faith. As witnesses of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, they provided firsthand testimony that he was the Messiah. Their powerful preaching led thousands to repent, believe in Jesus, and follow him.
Even today, their witness influences people to accept Christ through their records in the Gospels and book of Acts.
Training Future Church Leaders
Another vital duty of the twelve was to equip future leaders who could shepherd the rapidly growing early church. As apostles, they laid the doctrinal foundation of the Christian faith after Jesus ascended to heaven (Ephesians 2:20).
The disciples trained leaders like Timothy and Titus to be pastors who could “teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).
Their investment in mentoring faithful leaders ensured that the church would continue thriving in their absence. Even when the twelve decreased in number as martyrs, the gospel continued advancing through the disciples they trained.
Today, pastors and teachers carry on discipling believers based on the model Jesus’ closest followers established.
Providing Companionship and Service to Jesus
In calling the twelve disciples, Jesus chose men who could be his close companions for support and service. While large crowds followed Jesus, the disciples accompanied him on a deeper level. They witnessed Jesus’ daily life, character, and ministry up close.
This gave them insight to accurately represent him.
The disciples also ministered to Jesus’ practical needs. For instance, during his ministry travels they provided food and lodging (Luke 8:3). Their company brought comfort amid rejection, as well as assisted him with logistics.
The disciples presence with Christ reminds us of the value of true friendship and community for encouragement.
The Disciples’ Backgrounds and Personalities
Diverse Vocations and Temperaments
Jesus chose a diverse group of 12 disciples from various backgrounds, vocations and temperaments to follow Him during His earthly ministry. Though coming from different walks of life, they had a common devotion to their Master and a willingness to spread His revolutionary message of the kingdom of God.
The disciples included fishermen like Peter, Andrew, James and John who left their nets behind to follow Christ. There was Matthew, a despised tax collector who nevertheless was hand-picked by Jesus. Others came from more obscure backgrounds, like the zealot Simon, who likely desired to overthrow Roman rule before meeting Jesus.
They ranged from brash Peter to doubting Thomas, from pragmatic Philip to idealistic Bartholomew.
Jesus’ choice of such a motley crew demonstrated that the kingdom of God is open to all who put their faith in Him, regardless of background, vocation or personality. As the apostle Paul later wrote, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).
Though an unlikely group, the disciples were united in their devotion to Jesus.
Flaws, Doubts and Changes of Heart
The Gospels do not gloss over the disciples’ flaws, doubts and misunderstandings about Jesus’ identity and mission. Despite witnessing many miracles and hearing Christ’s teachings firsthand, they struggled to grasp His true purpose.
Peter showed tendencies toward pride and brashness, like when he walked briefly on water but then sank due to lack of faith (Matthew 14:28-31). At times, the disciples argued over who was the greatest among them, completely missing Jesus’ message of humble service (Luke 9:46-48).
Judas betrayed Jesus for a mere 30 pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).
Yet the disciples also demonstrated amazing changes of heart. Peter went from denying he even knew Jesus to boldly preaching about salvation through Christ after Pentecost (Acts 2). Thomas initially doubted Jesus’ resurrection but later declared Him as “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28).
Their flaws make the disciples relatable, but their transformation under Christ’s influence inspires us to see what God can do in broken earthen vessels.
The Disciples After Christ’s Death and Resurrection
Witnessing the Key Events of Jesus’ Ministry
The disciples of Jesus were fundamental witnesses to the major events of Christ’s ministry. They traveled with him for three years, hearing his teachings and observing his miracles firsthand. The disciples saw Jesus heal the sick, cast out demons, and even raise the dead.
They witnessed him calm a storm, feed thousands with just a few loaves and fish, and walk on water. The disciples were present at Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and with him when he cleansed the temple.
Importantly, they also witnessed the Last Supper, when Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper and washed his disciples’ feet. While Judas betrayed Jesus and Peter denied knowing him, the other disciples saw Jesus’ trial, crucifixion, and burial.
Their time with Jesus gave them unique insight into his identity and mission which prepared them for leadership roles in the early church.
Leading the Early Christian Church
After Jesus’ ascension, the disciples were instrumental in spreading the gospel and leading the budding Christian church according to Britannica. Peter gave a powerful sermon on the day of Pentecost that led 3000 people to accept Christ.
The disciples performed healings, exorcisms, and miracles as they preached. When persecuted, they prayed for boldness and continued evangelizing. The book of Acts records how the disciples established churches throughout Judea, Samaria, Asia Minor, Greece, and eventually Rome itself.
Peter helped incorporate the first Gentile believers. John and Peter wrote epistles that still guide the church today. Stories of the disciples’ missionary journeys encourage modern readers. The disciples appointed deacons to handle administrative needs and presbyters (elders) to lead local congregations.
They sent out apostolic delegates like Barnabas and Timothy to represent them. While all the disciples except John were eventually martyred, their courageous leadership enabled Christianity to thrive beyond a small Jewish sect.
The disciples fulfilled Christ’s great commission by taking the gospel worldwide and laying the foundations of the church.
Conclusion
In the end, Jesus chose disciples not simply to assist in his earthly work, but to carry on his spiritual mission after his ascension. Through their diversity, humanity, and ultimate transformation, the twelve became instrumental in spreading the gospel throughout the world and establishing Christ’s church.
By better understanding the origins, roles, characters, and lasting impact of the twelve disciples, we can gain profound insight into Christ’s leadership, teaching, and understanding of human nature. Their unique relationship with Jesus serves as an inspiring model for how all Christians can grow in faith and service.
