The Journey Before Jesus Chose His 12 Apostles

Introduction

Jesus, the cornerstone of Christianity, initiated his public ministry with the selection of his 12 apostles. However, His journey leading up to this moment was marked by significant personal and spiritual experiences. This article delves into the early life and early call of Jesus, emphasizing his prayers, encounters, and key events that prepared him for this pivotal decision.

The Night of Prayer and Decision

One fateful night, Luke 6:12-13 records that Jesus went to a mountain to pray and spent the whole night in conversation with God. This solitude provided a profound opportunity for introspection and divine guidance. Upon returning, Jesus assembled his disciples and chose twelve men to be his apostles. This act symbolized the beginning of his public mission with a selected group of followers, who would serve as the foundation of the early Christian Church.

Life Before the Call

John the Baptist's account and the Synoptic Gospels offer insight into Jesus' life before his baptism and call. Jesus grew up with His parents in Nazareth and worked in His foster father Joseph's carpentry shop. This humble start in life allowed Him to develop essential life skills and embody simplicity and stability, qualities that contrasted sharply with the eventual grandeur of His mission. His earthly responsibilities, however, did not limit His divine purpose.

Uriah's Encounter and the Wedding at Cana

Before his baptism, Jesus had a transformative experience in a small village. Luke 1:26-38 narrates that He met an old flame from the mountain people whom He had known from his youth. Their interaction was brief but significant, as it highlighted the continuity of His life and the interconnectedness of people from different walks of life. This encounter was a personal reminder of His earthly roots and a moment of reflection on His coming mission.

The turning point in Jesus' life came at the wedding in Cana. John 2:1-11 describes the scenario where Jesus’ mother Mary indicates a lack of wine, and instead of merely solving the problem through earthly means, Jesus performed his first miraculous sign by turning water into wine. This act not only demonstrated His divine power but also marked the start of His public ministry. His mother's words, “Do whatever He tells you,” set the stage for the fulfillment of His divine mission.

Baptism and Temptation in the Wilderness

Matthew 3:13-17 shares the account of Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. Despite John's reluctance, Jesus insisted on the baptism, symbolizing His willingness to fulfill all righteousness as God’s Son. Following His baptism, the heavens opened, the Spirit descended upon Him, and the voice of God declared, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased.” This moment signified the official start of His public ministry.

Following this moment, Luke 4:1-13 describes the period of temptation in the wilderness. For 40 nights and days, Satan tempted Jesus with numerous challenges, tempting Him to prove His status without aligning with God's will. Jesus resisted each temptation, affirming His faith and commitment to God's plan. These events were crucial in preparing Him for the challenges ahead and showcasing His unwavering resolve.

In conclusion, the journey to choosing the 12 apostles was a culmination of Jesus' life experiences, divine encounters, and personal development. The events leading to this moment are pivotal in understanding the path that led to the establishment of the Christian faith. His journey from humble beginnings, to life-changing baptisms, and ultimately to the wilderness, laid the groundwork for His mission and the selection of His disciples.