The students will be able to describe Jesus' choosing of followers and disciples at the beginning of His ministry.
Introduction: Open your class by showing some articles indicative of different professions; for example, hammer, stethoscope, typewriter.
Progression of Events:
Climax: Jesus needed helpers while He was on earth, and He still calls helpers today.
Conclusion: We want to answer God's call to us and be usable in His service.
Response: Your students will be able to list some qualities that Jesus looks for in His followers.
For three years Jesus carried on His earthly ministry. He preached to multitudes, healed many and did mighty works, but Jesus blessed these twelve men with something even greater. With these twelve men Jesus shared His life. They talked with Him, walked with Him and ate with Him. Because of that they were able to carry on the work of God with power and zeal (1 John 1:1-3).
Who were these men? Several were fishermen (Matthew 4:18,21). One was a despised tax collector (Matthew 9:9). Another was a member of an intensely nationalistic political party called the Zealots (Luke 6:15). And another, Judas, probably a businessman (John 13:29). They were a cross section of ordinary men. They were not from the schools of higher learning, not from the aristocracy, not wealthy, just ordinary men on whose hearts Christ could write His message (Acts 4:13).
In the Gospels these men are usually called disciples, because as long as Jesus was with them they were still learners; after that, they are invariably referred to as the Apostles. The reading in Matthew would give the impression that Christ's call to these men was His first contact with them. However, in reading John 1:35-51, it is apparent that some of them had been disciples of John the Baptist and had had contact with Jesus previous to their call. These men were willing to forsake all to follow Jesus (Matthew 19:27), and because of that the Gospel has been preserved for us.
Gather a number of objects to carry across the room. Say, "Oh, there are too many for only one person to carry. I need help." Let several of the children volunteer to help. Emphasize how Jesus needs lots of helpers to carry this Good News to everyone.
Bring a phone. Pretend to call different friends, asking for help. Repeat their excuses for not coming to help. For example, "Oh, you mean you're too busy? Okay, thanks anyway!" Emphasize how Jesus calls us to be helpers and we should do what He says, not make excuses.
What was Jesus' prerequisite for His disciples? Ask your students to come up with ideas of what Jesus was looking for in the men He chose to work with Him. List their suggestions, and then make a like list of what Jesus is looking for in those He chooses to be His helpers today.
Have some students dressed as a fisherman, rich man, doctor, etc. What did they have in common? Their backgrounds, appearances and manners were certainly different. Have each one produce a heart saying, "I am willing." Then have another group come out dressed as a painter, janitor, secretary, etc. Have them show the same kind of heart.
Tell the story using an overhead. Introduce the men Jesus called—one at a time. Let the concluding scene be the figure of Jesus with all the faces of the men He called around Him. Write in names of children in your group.
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