The New Leader and His Call

(John 1, Luke 4, Mark 1-2, Matthew 3)

The Promised One is Revealed

(John 1:29-42)

John the Baptist had been preparing the way for the coming of God’s chosen King. Many of his followers were eager to know more about this mysterious Messiah. One day, while John was speaking to a group of his disciples, he spotted Jesus walking nearby.

“Look!” John exclaimed, pointing to Jesus. “He is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”

Two of John’s disciples, curious and drawn to Jesus, hurried after Him. They followed at a distance until Jesus turned and noticed them. “What do you want?” He asked kindly.

“Where are you staying?” they replied shyly.

“Come and see,” Jesus said with a warm smile.

The two spent the day with Jesus, captivated by His words and presence. That evening, one of them, Andrew, rushed to find his brother, Simon. “We’ve found the Messiah!” he declared with excitement.

When Simon met Jesus, the Lord gave him a long, thoughtful look. “You are Simon, son of John,” Jesus said. “But you will be called Peter—the rock.”

Jesus Prepares for His Mission

(Luke 4:1-13)

After being baptized by John, Jesus knew His mission as the Messiah had begun. But first, He needed to spend time alone in prayer and reflection. He went into the desert, a barren place of scorching heat, jagged rocks, and howling winds. For forty days, He fasted and prayed, seeking strength and guidance from His Father.

Jesus also knew His path would be unlike that of earthly kings. He would not rule from a throne of gold or command armies. Instead, He would serve humbly, suffer greatly, and ultimately give His life for the salvation of the world.

Satan, the enemy of God, sought to stop Jesus before His mission began. Appearing when Jesus was weak and hungry, Satan tempted Him:

“If you are the Son of God, turn these stones into bread.”

But Jesus refused. “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God,’” He said.

Next, Satan showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. “I will give you all their authority and glory,” Satan promised. “Just bow down and worship me.”

Jesus stood firm. “It is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’”

Finally, Satan took Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple in Jerusalem. “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down. The scriptures say God will send His angels to protect you.”

“It is also written, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test,’” Jesus replied.

Defeated, Satan left, and angels came to strengthen Jesus for His mission.

The Call to Follow

(Mark 1:16-20)

The time had come for Jesus to share the good news of God’s kingdom. As He walked along the shore of Lake Galilee, He saw Simon Peter and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the water.

“Come, follow me,” Jesus called to them, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”

Without hesitation, they dropped their nets and followed Him. Further along, Jesus saw James and John, the sons of Zebedee, mending their nets. “Follow me,” He called, and they, too, left everything to join Him.

Over time, Jesus chose twelve disciples to be His closest followers and messengers. They came from all walks of life:

• Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John—fishermen.
• Matthew—a tax collector, despised by many.
• Simon the Zealot—a passionate freedom fighter.
• Others, like Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, and Judas Iscariot, each with their unique stories and strengths.

Jesus didn’t choose the powerful or influential. He chose ordinary people to share His extraordinary message of God’s love.

The Doctor for the Sick

(Mark 2:13-17)

One of Jesus’ most surprising followers was Matthew, the tax collector. Tax collectors were hated by their fellow Jews, seen as traitors who worked for the oppressive Roman government. Many were known for dishonesty, taking more money than required and keeping the extra for themselves.

Yet, when Jesus passed by Matthew’s booth, He called out, “Follow me.”

To everyone’s amazement, Matthew left his booth and followed. Filled with joy, he threw a feast at his home and invited Jesus, his fellow tax collectors, and others often labeled as “sinners.”

When the religious leaders saw this, they were scandalized. “Why does He eat with tax collectors and sinners?” they asked Jesus’ disciples.

Overhearing, Jesus replied, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

Jesus’ words revealed a profound truth: He came not for the self-righteous but for those humble enough to admit their need for God’s forgiveness. Those willing to turn from their sins found hope, healing, and a new life in Him.

Jesus’ ministry was just beginning, but it was clear that He was no ordinary teacher or leader. With wisdom, compassion, and the power of God, He was calling all people to experience the kingdom of heaven on earth.