choosing the 12 disciples

To be admitted to a position of leadership in any organisation today entails the candidate to undergo various interviews and checks.

---

Today we read of the appointment of the twelve who were to become Jesus closest disciples, but who were these men and what qualifications did they have?

Simon Peter was given to fits of temper. Andrew had no qualities of leadership. He was just a follower. The two brothers James and John were hot-headed were interested in their own advancement.

Thomas is well known for his questioning attitude. Matthew was a tax collector, people renowned for their ill treatment of others and cheating. James, son of Alphaeus and Thaddaeus had radical leanings, and Judas betrayed Jesus.

When we look at those first apostles, they are a great deal more like us than we usually imagine. We can look at these men, and the many other men and women who were disciples of Jesus and find that we are not much different from them.

Try identifying with one of the twelve.
Which one are you most like?

• Can you see in yourself the same faults and failings?
• Can you see their individual strengths in you?
• Can you see the same potential for your own unique ministry?

You see discipleship refers to the process of how Christians are equipped and transformed for this life and battle, to be light in a dark world to those still held in the clutch of the prince of darkness.

If God could transform the lives of those first disciples, he can transform ours as well. That is the overwhelming passionate story of Jesus’ ministry. Our call is to be what Jesus wants to make us, where ever we happen to be.

The Apostle John for example, was called one of the Sons of Thunder, most likely because of his fiery temper. ON one occasion he and his brother James wanted Jesus to call down fire from heaven to consume a Samaritan village that had disrespected Jesus. (Luke 9:51-55) But as his own heart was transformed to learn how to love with God’s love, he actually went to those same Samaritans with the Gospel (Acts 8:14-17).

This is a real transformation we can all understand. It is a transformation of the heart that ultimately affects every aspect of our being. It is this transformation that Paul talked about when he said:

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)

We too are chosen by God to be labourers in the harvest. And although the harvest is immense and we may feel unqualified and ill quipped, there is no need to be discouraged. It is when we allow the Spirit of God to transform us that we find the ability to do exactly what God calls us to do.

The Lord be with you.

With Blessings
Rev Jenny