Jesus selected twelve individuals to be his apostles, marking a pivotal moment in his ministry. These twelve were chosen not only to accompany him but also to be trained and prepared for a mission. The number twelve is symbolic, reflecting the twelve tribes of Israel, suggesting a new covenant and a new community of believers. The apostles were to be with Jesus, learning directly from his teachings and observing his actions, which would prepare them for their future role in spreading the gospel.
This selection emphasizes the importance of close fellowship with Jesus as a foundation for effective ministry. Being with Jesus meant understanding his message deeply and embodying his teachings in their lives. The apostles were then tasked with preaching, sharing the transformative message of Jesus with others. This underscores the dual aspects of discipleship: learning and teaching, receiving and giving. It serves as a reminder to all believers of the importance of being rooted in Christ's teachings and actively participating in sharing the faith with others.