What Did Jesus Give the Disciples He Called to Join Him in His Work?

When Jesus began his ministry, he called several individuals to join him in his work. These disciples would go on to play a crucial role in spreading his message and carrying out his teachings long after he was gone. But what exactly did Jesus give these disciples when he called them to follow him?

1. A mission: The first thing Jesus gave the disciples was a clear mission.

He called them to “follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). In other words, he invited them to be part of a movement that would transform people’s lives and bring them closer to God.

2. His teachings: As the disciples followed Jesus, they were not only learning from his example but also from his teachings.

Jesus spoke about love, forgiveness, humility, and many other topics that would later form the basis of Christian doctrine. He used parables and stories to illustrate his points and help people understand the deeper meaning behind his words.

3. His presence: One of the most significant things Jesus gave the disciples was his presence.

He was their leader, their teacher, and their friend. They could ask him questions, seek guidance from him, and share their concerns with him at any time.

The Twelve Disciples:

  • Peter
  • Andrew
  • James
  • John
  • Philip
  • Bartholomew
  • Thomas
  • Matthew
  • James son of Alphaeus
  • Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed Jesus)
  • Simeon (also called Simon) the Zealot
  • Judas (not Judas Iscariot, but another disciple with the same name)

The Role of the Disciples:

As Jesus’ ministry continued, the disciples played an increasingly important role. They helped him perform miracles, preached alongside him, and provided support and encouragement when times were tough. They also became leaders themselves, spreading Jesus’ message to other parts of the world after his death and resurrection.

4. The Holy Spirit: After Jesus ascended to heaven, he sent the Holy Spirit to guide and empower his disciples.

With this gift, they were able to continue his work and bring the gospel to people everywhere. The Holy Spirit gave them strength, wisdom, and a deep sense of purpose as they carried out their mission.

In summary, when Jesus called his disciples to follow him, he gave them a clear mission, his teachings, his presence, and ultimately the Holy Spirit. These gifts enabled them to become powerful agents of change in the world and laid the foundation for Christianity as we know it today.