How Did Jesus Find His Apostles?

In the biblical account of Jesus’ ministry, one of the significant episodes is the calling and selection of His apostles. Jesus handpicked His disciples, choosing them from various professions and walks of life. This article explores the methods and criteria used by Jesus to find His apostles and examines the details provided in the Gospels.

According to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, Jesus called His disciples at different times and in different ways. From the Gospel of John, we learn that the initial disciples were followers of John the Baptist, and they began to follow Jesus based on his testimony. In the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, Jesus encountered fishermen by the Sea of Galilee and invited them to become fishers of men. The Gospel of Luke also highlights the calling of disciples by the same sea, accompanied by a miraculous catch of fish.

Key Takeaways:

• Jesus handpicked His apostles, choosing them from various professions and walks of life.
• The calling of the disciples is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
• Some of the initial disciples were followers of John the Baptist.
• Jesus called fishermen by the Sea of Galilee, inviting them to become fishers of men.
• The calling of the disciples demonstrates the transformative power of Jesus’ selection and the impact of their obedience and devotion to Him.

The Gospel of John

In the Gospel of John, the calling of the disciples takes on a unique perspective. Here, the first disciples are portrayed as followers of John the Baptist before they become disciples of Jesus. The Gospel introduces us to Andrew, the brother of Apostle Peter, as one of the first disciples who followed Jesus. It is through the testimony of John the Baptist that these disciples are initially drawn to Jesus.

The Gospel of John emphasizes the role of John the Baptist in preparing the way for Jesus and highlighting His importance. This perspective provides a different lens through which we can understand the disciples’ decision to follow Jesus. They were already familiar with John the Baptist and his teachings, which likely played a significant role in their willingness to leave their previous lives and dedicate themselves to Jesus’ ministry.

“And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, ‘Behold the Lamb of God!’ The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.” – John 1:36-37

Significance of John the Baptist

The inclusion of John the Baptist in the calling of the disciples in the Gospel of John highlights the interconnectedness of their journeys. John the Baptist serves as a bridge between the disciples’ previous lives and their future roles as followers of Jesus. This connection helps establish a sense of continuity and purpose in their decision to embrace Jesus’ teachings.

By understanding the role of John the Baptist, we gain a deeper appreciation for the disciples’ initial choice to follow Jesus. It was not a random encounter or a sudden decision but a continuation of their spiritual journey that was influenced by John the Baptist’s teachings and affirmation of Jesus as the Messiah.

Discipleship in the Gospel of John

The Gospel of John also provides unique insights into the nature of discipleship. Throughout the narrative, Jesus challenges his disciples to deepen their faith and understanding. He calls them to a higher level of commitment and devotion, symbolized by the washing of their feet and the command to love one another.

In the Gospel of John, discipleship is not simply about following Jesus physically but also about embracing His teachings and embodying His love in their daily lives. This emphasis on discipleship as a transformative journey resonates with readers today, reminding us that being a disciple of Jesus requires a lifelong commitment to learning, growing, and serving others.

Gospels of Matthew and Mark

In the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, we find accounts of Jesus’ calling of the disciples by the Sea of Galilee. This pivotal moment in their lives occurred as Jesus encountered Peter, Andrew, James, and John, who were fishermen by trade. Jesus extended a personal invitation to these individuals, beckoning them to leave their livelihoods behind and follow Him. He promised to transform them into “fishers of men,” indicating their new mission to spread His teachings and gather followers.

Peter and Andrew were brothers who were casting their nets into the sea when Jesus approached them. With a simple yet profound command, Jesus summoned them, saying, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” James and John were also fishermen working alongside their father. When Jesus called out to them, they immediately left their boat and their father behind to become disciples of Jesus.

This calling of the disciples by the Sea of Galilee demonstrates Jesus’ intentional and strategic selection process. He handpicked individuals who were familiar with the sea and fishing, using their existing skills and experiences to illustrate their future role in spreading His message. These ordinary fishermen would become extraordinary apostles, playing a pivotal role in the foundation of Christianity.

Disciple	Profession
Peter	Fisherman
Andrew	Fisherman
James	Fisherman
John	Fisherman
Philip	Unknown

Gospel of Luke

The Gospel of Luke, one of the four canonical Gospels in the New Testament, provides valuable insights into the calling of the disciples by Jesus. This Gospel presents a unique perspective on the events surrounding the recruitment of the disciples, including the notable episode of the miraculous draught of fishes.

In the Gospel of Luke, we find Jesus by the Sea of Galilee, where He encounters a group of disciples who had been fishing all night without success. Jesus instructs Simon Peter to cast his nets into the deep water, prompting a miraculous catch of fish that overwhelms the fishermen. This event demonstrates Jesus’ authority and power, as well as His ability to call His disciples to a higher purpose.

“Master, we have toiled all night and took nothing; nevertheless, at Your word I will let down the net.” – Simon Peter, Luke 5:5

This miraculous draught of fishes serves as a pivotal moment in the calling of the disciples, symbolizing the abundance of blessings that await those who follow Jesus. It highlights the transformative power of Jesus’ call and the disciples’ willingness to leave behind their previous livelihoods to become fishers of men.

Event	Location	Key Disciples
Calling of the Disciples	Sea of Galilee	Simon Peter, James, John, Andrew, and others
Miraculous Draught of Fishes	Sea of Galilee	Simon Peter, James, John, and Andrew

The Gospel of Luke provides a rich and detailed account of the calling of the disciples, emphasizing the significance of the Sea of Galilee as a backdrop for these transformative events. It invites readers to reflect on their own response to Jesus’ call and the abundant blessings that come from wholeheartedly following Him.

John McEvilly’s Commentary

In his commentary on the selection of Jesus’ disciples, John McEvilly offers an intriguing perspective. He suggests that Jesus intentionally chose individuals who were considered foolish, base, and contemptible by society. This choice, according to McEvilly, was a deliberate strategy to demonstrate that the success of the Gospel was not dependent on human wisdom or prestige, but rather on the divine power at work.

“The foolish, base, and contemptible things of this world were selected by Jesus to show that the success of the Gospel was the work of God and not of man.”

This interpretation challenges conventional notions of greatness and highlights the transformative power of Jesus’ selection. By choosing individuals who were considered lowly in the eyes of the world, Jesus showcased the radical nature of his message and the inclusive nature of his mission. The disciples, despite their perceived inadequacies, went on to become instrumental figures in spreading the teachings of Jesus and establishing the foundations of Christianity.

McEvilly’s commentary invites us to reconsider our understanding of discipleship and the qualities that make someone suitable for God’s work. It emphasizes the importance of humility, surrender, and dependence on God’s strength rather than relying on human achievements or social status. By choosing those whom society considered foolish and base, Jesus challenges our preconceived notions of worthiness and reminds us that God’s ways are often counterintuitive.

Implications for Discipleship

McEvilly’s commentary offers valuable insights for contemporary discipleship. It prompts us to question our own notions of greatness and success, reminding us that God’s kingdom operates on different principles than the world. It invites us to embrace our own weaknesses and vulnerabilities, recognizing that it is precisely in our brokenness that God’s power can be made manifest.

This perspective also challenges us to extend grace and understanding to others. Just as Jesus saw potential in the disciples, despite their flaws, we are encouraged to see the hidden potential in those whom society may deem unworthy or insignificant. It calls us to approach discipleship with a spirit of humility, recognizing that we are all recipients of God’s grace and that our value lies not in our own accomplishments, but in our relationship with Him.

Disciples	Qualities
Peter	Fisherman, impulsive
Andrew	Fisherman, follower of John the Baptist
James	Fisherman, son of Zebedee
John	Fisherman, son of Zebedee, “the beloved disciple”
Philip	Follower of John the Baptist
Bartholomew	Identity uncertain, often identified with Nathanael
Matthew	Tax collector
Thomas	Doubter, known for his skepticism
James son of Alphaeus	Identity uncertain
Simon the Zealot	Zealot, political activist
Judas son of James	Identity uncertain, also known as Thaddaeus
Judas Iscariot	Infamous for betraying Jesus

Cornelius a Lapide’s Commentary

In his commentary on the calling of the disciples, Cornelius a Lapide provides insights into the significance of Jesus’ words to Peter: “From now on you will catch men.” He draws attention to the Greek word ζωγρῶν, which means “take them alive, catch them for life.” According to a Lapide, this phrase highlights the transformative power of Peter’s role as a disciple, leading others to a new life in God.

“From now on you will catch men.” – Cornelius a Lapide

By using this phrase, Jesus emphasizes the disciples’ mission to bring others into a deeper relationship with God. Cornelius a Lapide’s commentary underscores the responsibility and privilege of discipleship, where Peter and the other apostles are entrusted with the task of guiding people towards a life of faith and salvation.

The Role of Disciples	Their Mission
Transformative	Lead others to new life in God
Responsibility	Guide people towards faith and salvation

The Twelve Disciples

The calling of the disciples is a significant event in the life of Jesus, where He handpicked twelve of His followers to serve as apostles. These chosen apostles included Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, Judas son of James (also known as Thaddaeus), and Judas Iscariot.

Each of the twelve disciples had different backgrounds and personalities. Peter, also known as Simon Peter, was a fisherman from Galilee and played a prominent role among the disciples. Andrew, Peter’s brother, was also a fisherman and was among the first to follow Jesus. James and John, often referred to as the Sons of Thunder, were brothers and fishermen as well. Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew (also known as Levi), and Thomas were also chosen by Jesus to be part of His inner circle. James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James were also included among the twelve. Lastly, Judas Iscariot became infamous for betraying Jesus.

The selection of these twelve disciples was not random but held great significance in Jesus’ ministry. They were called to be witnesses to His teachings, miracles, and ultimately to carry on His mission after His ascension. The twelve disciples played a crucial role in the early spread of Christianity, carrying the message of Jesus to different regions and establishing the foundations of the faith.

Name	Occupation
Peter	Fisherman
Andrew	Fisherman
James	Fisherman
John	Fisherman
Philip	N/A
Bartholomew	N/A
Matthew	Tax Collector
Thomas	N/A
James son of Alphaeus	N/A
Simon the Zealot	N/A
Judas son of James (Thaddaeus)	N/A
Judas Iscariot	N/A

These twelve disciples, with their diverse backgrounds and unique personalities, were called by Jesus to be His closest followers. Their commitment and dedication to Jesus laid the foundation for the spread of Christianity, and their names are forever etched in the history of faith.

Historical Background

The calling of the disciples by Jesus holds a significant place in biblical history. According to the New Testament, at least six out of the twelve disciples were from the Sea of Galilee region. This historical background provides insights into the backgrounds and origins of these chosen apostles. Acts 1:11 refers to the disciples as “Men of Galilee,” indicating that all the disciples were from the Galilee area.

Jesus’ selection of disciples from the Sea of Galilee region highlights the diverse group of individuals he chose to be his followers and representatives. This historical context helps us understand the geographical and cultural aspects that influenced the disciples’ lives and their subsequent roles in spreading the teachings of Jesus.

“Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” – Acts 1:11

The mention of “Men of Galilee” in Acts 1:11 not only establishes their geographical origin but also emphasizes the significance of their role as witnesses to Jesus’ teachings and resurrection. The Sea of Galilee region served as the backdrop for many transformative events in the lives of the disciples and played a crucial role in shaping their understanding of Jesus’ ministry.

Disciples from the Sea of Galilee	Occupation
Peter	Fisherman
Andrew	Fisherman
James	Fisherman
John	Fisherman
Philip	Unknown
Matthew	Tax collector

The historical background of the disciples being from the Sea of Galilee region helps us understand the cultural and occupational backgrounds from which they came. The occupations of Peter, Andrew, James, John, and Matthew as fishermen and Philip’s occupation being unknown shed light on their previous lives and the transformative impact Jesus had on them.

References:

1. Acts 1:11 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+1%3A11&version=NIV

Places of Interest

The calling of the disciples is closely associated with the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, a region rich in biblical history and significance. Exploring the places where Jesus called his disciples can provide valuable insights into the context and environment of their calling.

One such place of interest is Gennesaret, a small fertile plain located on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee. It is mentioned in the New Testament as the location where Jesus performed many miracles, including the feeding of the five thousand.

Another noteworthy site is Magdala, a small town known as the hometown of Mary Magdalene. It is believed that Jesus visited Magdala during his ministry, and it was here that he encountered and healed many people with various illnesses and infirmities.

Tabgha is also a significant place to visit, as it is the traditional site of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes. This event is mentioned in all four Gospels and is a symbol of Jesus’ ability to provide abundantly for his followers.

The town of Capernaum holds great importance in the calling of the disciples, as it was Jesus’ base during his Galilean ministry. Many of his teachings and miracles were performed in Capernaum, and it was here that he called Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow him.

Bethsaida is another place worth mentioning, as it is the hometown of Philip, Andrew, and Peter. In the Gospel of John, it is described as the location where Jesus performed the miracle of feeding the multitude with five loaves and two fishes.

Places of Interest at a Glance

Place	Significance
Gennesaret	Location of several miracles performed by Jesus
Magdala	Hometown of Mary Magdalene; site of Jesus’ healing ministry
Tabgha	Traditional site of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes
Capernaum	Jesus’ base during his Galilean ministry; where he called his first disciples
Bethsaida	Hometown of Philip, Andrew, and Peter; location of the miracle of feeding the multitude

“The calling of the disciples is closely associated with the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, a region rich in biblical history and significance.”

Calling of the Disciples in the Bible

The Bible provides several accounts of the calling of the disciples, highlighting the significant role they played in Jesus’ ministry. These accounts offer insights into the diverse backgrounds and professions of the disciples and shed light on Jesus’ method of selecting his followers.

John 1:35–44

In John 1:35–44, we find the calling of Andrew, Peter, and others. Andrew was originally a disciple of John the Baptist, but upon hearing John’s proclamation that Jesus was the Lamb of God, Andrew followed Jesus along with another disciple. Jesus, seeing them, asked, “What do you seek?” They responded by calling Him “Rabbi” and asked where He was staying. Jesus invited them to “come and see,” and they remained with Him that day. Andrew then went to find his brother Simon (Peter) and brought him to Jesus. Recognizing Peter, Jesus declared, “You are Simon the son of John; you shall be called Cephas” (which means Peter).

Luke 5:1–11

In Luke 5:1–11, we encounter the interaction between Jesus and Simon Peter, James, and John. Jesus was teaching by the Lake of Gennesaret (also known as the Sea of Galilee), and the fishermen had just finished a night of unsuccessful fishing. Jesus got into Simon’s boat, asked him to push out a little from the shore, and taught the crowd from there. Afterward, Jesus instructed Simon to let down his nets for a catch. Simon expressed doubt but obeyed, resulting in a miraculous catch of fish. Overwhelmed by this, Simon fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” Jesus assured Simon not to be afraid and called him to become a fisher of men. Simon, along with James and John, left everything and followed Jesus.

Matthew 9:9

In Matthew 9:9, we find the calling of Matthew, the tax collector. Jesus saw Matthew sitting at the tax booth and said to him, “Follow me.” Matthew immediately got up and followed Jesus. This event is significant as tax collectors were often despised by society, yet Jesus chose Matthew to be one of His disciples, demonstrating His inclusive and transformative ministry.

These biblical accounts of the calling of the disciples not only provide historical information but also offer spiritual lessons for believers today. They highlight the importance of responding to Jesus’ call, leaving behind old ways of life, and embracing a new life of discipleship. The disciples’ willingness to follow Jesus and their subsequent journey with Him serve as a powerful example of faith and devotion.

Disciple	Biblical Account
Andrew	John 1:35–44
Peter	John 1:35–44, Luke 5:1–11
James	Luke 5:1–11
John	John 1:35–44, Luke 5:1–11
Matthew	Matthew 9:9

Faith Lesson from the Calling of the Disciples

The calling of the disciples by Jesus provides a powerful faith lesson that resonates even today. It teaches us about the importance of full devotion to Christ and the cost of discipleship. Just as Jesus handpicked His apostles and called them to follow Him, He calls upon us to devote ourselves wholeheartedly to Him and His teachings.

Jesus’ selection of the disciples was not random or arbitrary. He chose individuals from various walks of life, including fishermen, tax collectors, and ordinary men. This demonstrates that God values and includes everyone, regardless of their background or societal status.

In Luke 14:27, Jesus says, “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” This verse highlights the cost of discipleship, which involves surrendering ourselves completely to Christ and being willing to sacrifice our own desires and ambitions for His sake. It requires us to prioritize our relationship with Him above all else and to be obedient to His teachings.

Examples of Full Devotion to Christ

Name	Occupation	Scripture Reference
Peter	Fisherman	Luke 5:11
Matthew	Tax Collector	Matthew 9:9
John	Fisherman	John 21:20-22

“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” – Luke 9:23

The calling of the disciples serves as a powerful reminder that following Jesus requires a deep commitment and unwavering faith. It challenges us to examine our own lives and consider the level of devotion and sacrifice we are willing to give in our journey as disciples of Christ. May we be inspired by the disciples’ example and strive to live lives marked by full devotion to Christ.

Conclusion

The calling of the disciples was a pivotal moment in the journey of faith and the foundation of Christianity. Jesus, with great intentionality, handpicked his apostles, choosing them from various professions and walks of life. This method of appointing apostles highlighted that Jesus’ selection was not based on worldly status or qualifications, but rather on individuals with hearts open to following Him.

This event showcases the transformative power of Jesus’ calling and the disciples’ willingness to respond. They left behind their livelihoods, families, and comforts to embark on a new journey as witnesses to Jesus’ teachings. Their obedience and devotion paved the way for the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of Christian faith.

The calling of the disciples not only teaches us about the journey of faith, but it also reminds us of the foundations of Christianity. It demonstrates the importance of wholeheartedly following Jesus, even when it requires sacrifice and stepping into the unknown. It serves as an inspiration for believers today, urging them to fully devote themselves to Christ and embrace the cost of discipleship.

Source Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calling_of_the_disciples
• https://www.thenivbible.com/blog/why-did-jesus-choose-12-disciples/
• https://www.holylandsite.com/sea-of-galilee-calling-the-disciple