Jesus Calls His Disciples
My Jesus S. Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
The book 'Jesus Calls His Disciples' by Alan Parry details the calling of Jesus's first disciples as told in the Gospels. It explores how Jesus meets ordinary fishermen and tax collectors and calls them to become his followers and spread his message. The book analyzes each disciple's background and examines what Jesus saw in them that made him choose them. It highlights lessons of faith, obedience, sacrifice, and commitment as the disciples leave everything behind to follow Jesus. A fun introduction to the loving character of Jesus, this die-cut book gives children a look at Jesus' disciples, and reinforces that Jesus is a friend to the reader as well.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
10 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the disciples felt when Jesus asked them to follow him?
What qualities do you think Jesus saw in his disciples?
Why is it important to help others and spread kindness, like Jesus did?
What would you do if you were asked to join a mission that could change the world?
How do you think the story of Jesus and his disciples teaches us about friendship and trust?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressions and voices to make the storytelling engaging and help the child visualize the scenes described in the book.
Relate the themes of the book to the child’s everyday experiences, such as teamwork in school projects or helping family members.
Encourage the child to think about the qualities they admire in their friends and in leaders they know or have learned about.
Discuss the moral decisions made by characters in the book and ask the child what they would have done in the same situations.
After reading, spend some time reflecting with the child on how the story’s themes can be applied in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Jesus Calls His Disciples,' Jesus gathers his disciples to work together to teach and heal. This shows children the power of collaboration and unity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with their peers on school projects or during team sports, learning that collective efforts can achieve great results.
Example Lesson: Following one's calling
Explanation: The story highlights how each disciple decided to follow Jesus’s call without hesitation. This teaches the value of recognizing and pursuing one's passion or calling.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to explore their own interests and talents, and understand the importance of dedication to what they feel strongly about, be it in academics, arts, or sports.
Example Lesson: Showing kindness and compassion
Explanation: Jesus and his disciples spread messages of love and kindness throughout their journeys. This exemplifies how treating people with compassion can lead to positive changes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to incorporate kindness in their daily interactions with family, friends, and even strangers, making their community a better place.
Example Lesson: Learning from others
Explanation: The disciples learn from Jesus’s teachings and actions. It illustrates the benefit of learning from those who are knowledgeable or experienced.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to listen and learn from parents, teachers, and mentors, understanding that gaining knowledge from others can lead to personal growth and wisdom.
Example Lesson: Commitment to a cause
Explanation: As the disciples commit to following Jesus, the story underscores the importance of dedication to a cause or belief.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance and commitment, whether in relation to their studies, hobbies, or relationships.