Jesus had a far grander plan…one that would call for a radical new direction for the lives of Peter and Andrew. A daily routine of semi-successful fishing would be transformed into an apprenticeship program with Jesus. The latter told them they would now “catch men” (Luke 4:10b).
What followed was three years of experiential training at the side of Jesus. They were “disciples” (“students”) who would be transformed into “witnesses” for Him (Acts 1:8). Peter and Andrew were joined by ten others who were also selected by Jesus. None exceeded ordinary. None were “first round draft picks.”
Jesus had a plan. It was intentional and intense. It was focused and designed for an extreme make-over. The mixed and motley crew had potential beyond what any human on-looker could see. Jesus saw their moldable hearts. In the future their very identity would be defined by “love” (John 13:34-35).
And so it came to be that these twelve disciples (minus Judas who lost his positioning due to betrayal) became bold messengers for Christ, instrumental in the formation of His church. All were empowered by the Holy Spirit for this wo ...
