The Calling of the Disciples

Jesus began preaching, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." He traveled along the Sea of Galilee, where He called His first disciples.

Walking by the shore, He saw two fishermen, Simon (later called Peter) and his brother Andrew, casting their nets into the sea. Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately, they left their nets and followed Him.

Later, He called James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were mending their nets in their boat. They too left everything behind to follow Him. Over time, Jesus called twelve disciples, ordinary men—fishermen, a tax collector, and others—who would become His closest followers and carry on His mission.

The Twelve Disciples:

Simon Peter

Andrew

James (son of Zebedee)

John

Philip

Bartholomew (Nathanael)

Thomas

Matthew (the tax collector)

James (son of Alphaeus)

Thaddeus (Judas, son of James)

Simon the Zealot

Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed Him)

These men walked with Jesus, learning from Him directly. Though they were flawed, Jesus transformed them into bold leaders who would later spread the gospel throughout the world.