Twelve Were Chosen
A Study of the Original Apostles
James and John
Sons of Thunder
指導方針
The focus of this lesson is on the other set of brothers, James and John and how they changed from “Sons of Thunder” to faithful followers of Jesus. Of special note is biblical information about the two and what we learn from them.
学生の学習成果
- Know: Learn the characteristics of the apostles that enable us to influence others for Jesus.
- Feel: Value the apostles as role models in serving the Lord.
- Do: Apply the characteristics of the apostles in our life of faithful service to the Lord.
レッスンの本文
討論の質問
以下は、授業の指導付き討論部分で使用するための提案された質問です。また、学生がさまざまな概念を理解するのを助けるための質問への提案された回答も含まれています。これらは討論を支援するために提供されており、「正しいまたは間違っている」回答とは見なされません。
- They were brothers, and the sons of Zebedee, a successful fisherman (Matthew 20:20)
- Their calling is recorded in Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
- We see them fishing with Peter and Andrew
- They were part of the inner circle along with Peter and Andrew and were with Jesus at significant times in His ministry.
- They were given the nickname "Sons-of-Thunder" by Jesus in Mark 3:17.
- James was the first apostle killed for his faith and John was the longest living apostle.
We read in Acts 12:1-2 that Herod had James killed, "by the sword" which indicates a typical Roman style killing. We don't know if it was by stabbing or beheading.
The most significant lesson from this is that James served faithfully, even to the death. That is a lesson for us. We must learn to take an eternal view of life and dedicate our life to serving Jesus, no matter the consequences.
- Was part of the inner circle and with Jesus at significant times.
- Known to the high priest (John 18:15) which allowed him to witness the trial of Jesus.
- Was the only apostle at the foot of the cross and was entrusted with the care of Mary, the mother of Jesus (John 19:26).
- Was the first apostle to arrive at the empty tomb (John 20:24).
- Authored 5 books of the New Testament (Gospel of John, 1, 2, 3 John, Revelation).
- Was active with Peter early in the beginning and growth of the Church.
- Was the longest living of the apostles.
It is interesting to see John transform from one who wanted a key position in the Kingdom to one who desired to not even have his name mentioned, especially by himself. This shows us the transformational power of Jesus as we learn that we are the servant and He is the master. It's not about us, although God made it about us through Jesus.
John teaches us wonderful lessons of the kind of love God shows us and wants us to show others. It is the kind of love that seeks the better for others ahead of ourselves. John's attitude and actions as he matures spiritually show how he grew to understand this and make it his view, not only of himself, but as an active example for us.
Answers will vary but look for how to develop and apply the love John teaches us, humility, loyalty to Jesus, and a desire to follow Jesus as He wishes for us.