The 12 Apostles: A Comprehensive Sunday School Lesson for All Ages
Teaching children about the 12 Apostles, who were ordinary men called to be the first disciples of Jesus, is a crucial part of any disciples Sunday school lesson.
This comprehensive guide provides an overview of each disciple, creative ideas for engaging younger students to high school students, and a variety of activities, such as coloring sheets, disciple trading cards, and word search puzzles for your Sunday school lesson.
Whether you’re teaching 1st grade or middle school, this lesson plan will help bring the Bible story of the 12 Apostles to life.
The 12 Apostles: Ordinary Men with an Extraordinary Calling
When Jesus began His ministry, He selected 12 ordinary men to be His closest followers. These men, known as the disciples of Jesus, came from various walks of life, including fishermen, a tax collector, and even a zealot. As we read through the stories in the Bible we see that Jesus and Heavenly Father select messengers of ordinary status.
One of the theories about why ordinary people are chosen is to show the transformative power of Heavenly Father and how he can work miracles through ordinary people. Joseph Smith is a prime example of this theory.
He was a young boy that could hardly read or write yet he was able to write the book of Mormon in a short time span. God calls his servants with diverse backgrounds, and the 12 apostles were united by a single purpose: to follow Jesus and spread the good news of His teachings. This section will explore each discipleโs name, background, and role in spreading the gospel.
The 12 Apostles
Simon Peter: The Rock of the Church
Acts 2:38: Peter addresses the crowd on the day of Pentecost:
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”
This verse is popular because it marks the beginning of the early Christian Church, and Peter’s message of repentance and baptism became foundational to Christian teaching.
Simon Peter, also known simply as Peter, is perhaps the most well-known of the 12 Apostles. A fisherman by trade, Peter was called by Jesus while casting his fishing net into the Sea of Galilee.
Jesus told Peter and his brother Andrew, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). Peter’s name means “rock,” and Jesus declared that upon this rock, He would build His church.
Peter’s faith and leadership were instrumental in the early Christian church, making him a central figure in any disciples Sunday school lesson.
Reflection
Why Did Peter Deny Jesus?
- Peter loved Jesus deeply but denied knowing Him three times out of fear. What can we learn from Peterโs denial about how fear can influence our actions, and how should we respond when our faith is challenged?
How Does Peterโs Boldness Inspire You?
- Peter was often the first to speak or act, like when he declared that Jesus was the Messiah or walked on water. How can Peterโs boldness encourage us to take brave steps of faith, even when weโre unsure of the outcome?
What Can We Learn from Peterโs Mistakes?
- Peter made several mistakes, such as cutting off a soldierโs ear in the garden and misunderstanding Jesus’ mission. How does Peterโs journey remind us that God can still use us, even when we fail or make poor decisions?
How Did Peterโs Faith Grow Over Time?
- Peterโs faith grew stronger after Jesusโ resurrection, and he became a powerful leader in the early Church. How does Peterโs transformation inspire us to keep growing in our faith, even after setbacks or doubts?
How Do You Relate to Peterโs Imperfections?
- Peter was passionate but often impulsive, making him a relatable figure. How can Peterโs imperfections help us see that God loves us and works through us, despite our flaws and weaknesses?
The Sons of Zebedee: James and John
James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God.”
James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were also fishermen who were called by Jesus to be His disciples. Known for their fiery temperaments, they were nicknamed “Sons of Thunder” by Jesus.
These two brothers left their father and their fishing nets by the Sea of Galilee to follow Jesus. James was the first of the 12 Apostles to be martyred, while John became the beloved disciple who wrote several books of the New Testament.
Teaching about these brothers highlights the devotion and sacrifice required to follow Jesus, making it an essential part of preschool Bible lessons and beyond.
Reflection
Why Did Jesus Call James and John the โSons of Thunderโ?
- Jesus gave James and John the nickname “Sons of Thunder” due to their strong and sometimes fiery personalities. How can their passion be both a strength and a weakness? How can we channel our emotions in ways that honor God rather than lead to conflict?
What Can We Learn from James and Johnโs Ambition?
- James and John once asked Jesus for special places of honor in His kingdom. What does this teach us about the dangers of seeking personal glory or recognition in our service to God? How can we focus on humility and serving others rather than seeking status?
How Does Johnโs Transformation into the โApostle of Loveโ Inspire You?
- Although John started with a fiery nature, he later became known for his teachings about love, especially in his letters. How does Johnโs transformation encourage us to grow in love and compassion over time, even if we struggle with patience or pride initially?
What Can We Learn from Jamesโ Willingness to Sacrifice?
- James became the first apostle to be martyred for his faith. How does his willingness to lay down his life for Christ challenge us to consider what sacrifices we are willing to make for our faith and the Gospel?
How Do We Respond When We Donโt Understand Godโs Plan?
- James and John didnโt always fully understand Jesusโ mission, like when they wanted to call down fire on a Samaritan village. What can their misunderstanding teach us about trusting Godโs plan, even when it doesnโt align with our own expectations or desires?
Matthew: The Tax Collector Turned Disciple
Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before becoming one of Jesus’ disciples. Tax collectors were often despised by the Jewish people because they were seen as collaborators with the Roman occupiers and were known for their corrupt practices.
Despite his occupation, Jesus called Matthew to follow Him, and Matthew responded by leaving everything behind.
His transformation from a tax collector to a disciple is a powerful example of how Jesus can change lives, a key message for children’s church lessons and important information for younger students.
Reflection
How Did Matthewโs Background as a Tax Collector Shape His Calling?
- Matthew was seen as an outcast and sinner because tax collectors were often associated with corruption. How does Jesus’ choice to call Matthew challenge us to see beyond someoneโs past or profession when considering their potential for Godโs kingdom?
How Does Matthewโs Story Encourage Us to Reach Out to โOutsidersโ?
- Matthew hosted a meal with Jesus and other tax collectors and sinners, showing that he wasnโt ashamed to associate with those who were marginalized. How can we be more intentional in sharing the love of Jesus with people who feel like they donโt belong or are judged by society?
What Does Matthewโs Transformation Teach Us About Grace?
- Matthew went from a life of likely dishonesty to becoming one of Jesusโ closest disciples. How does his transformation remind us that no one is beyond the reach of Godโs grace, no matter their past mistakes?
Judas Iscariot: The Betrayer
No discussion of the 12 Apostles is complete without mentioning Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed Jesus. Although Judas was chosen to be one of the disciples of Jesus, he eventually betrayed Him for 30 pieces of silver.
Judas’s betrayal led to Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. While Judas is often seen as a villain, his story also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the importance of staying true to Jesus.
Teaching about Judas Iscariot can be a challenging but important part of a disciples Sunday school lesson, particularly in high school settings where students can explore deeper moral lessons.
Reflection
Why Did Judas Betray Jesus?
- Judas followed Jesus as one of the twelve apostles but later betrayed Him for thirty pieces of silver. What do you think led Judas to make this choice, and how can we guard against letting greed or selfish desires control our decisions?
What Can We Learn About Trust and Betrayal?
- Judas was close to Jesus, yet he still betrayed Him. How can Judas’ actions teach us the importance of loyalty and trust in our relationships? Have you ever experienced betrayal, and how did it affect you?
How Does Judasโ Story Warn Us About Sin?
- Judasโ betrayal is an example of how sin can lead us down a destructive path. What can we do to recognize temptations in our lives and turn back to God before making harmful decisions?
Can We Learn from Judas’ Regret?
- After betraying Jesus, Judas felt deep regret but didnโt seek forgiveness. What does this teach us about the importance of repentance and seeking God’s mercy, no matter how far weโve strayed?
How Can We Avoid Judasโ Mistakes?
- Judas lost sight of Jesusโ mission and let his personal desires take control. How can we keep our focus on following Jesus, even when we face challenges or are tempted to pursue worldly things?
Andrew: The First Disciple
Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, is often referred to as the first disciple because he was the first to follow Jesus. Like his brother, Andrew was a fisherman, and he eagerly brought others, including his brother Simon Peter, to meet Jesus.
Andrew’s role in bringing others to Christ is an excellent example for children about the importance of sharing the good news with others.
Reflection
Why Did Andrew Follow Jesus First?
- Andrew was one of the first disciples to follow Jesus after hearing John the Baptistโs testimony. How has your testimony shaped the lives of others around you?
How Does Andrewโs Role as a โBringerโ Encourage Us?
- Andrew is often known for bringing others to Jesus, such as his brother Peter and the boy with the loaves and fish. How can Andrewโs example inspire us to introduce others to Jesus, even if weโre not in a prominent position or role ourselves?
What Can We Learn from Andrewโs Humility?
- Although Andrew was one of the first to follow Jesus, he didnโt seek attention or recognition for himself. How does his quiet, behind-the-scenes approach challenge us to serve humbly, without needing to be in the spotlight?
Philip and Bartholomew: The Faithful Followers
Philip and Bartholomew (also known as Nathanael) were among the first disciples to follow Jesus. Philip was known for his deep understanding of the Scriptures, while Bartholomew was praised by Jesus for his honesty and lack of deceit.
These two disciples played crucial roles in spreading the gospel, and their stories can inspire children to be faithful and honest in their walk with Christ. This story can be highlighted in lesson plan supplements for both middle school and high school students.
Reflection
What Can We Learn from Philipโs Questioning Spirit?
- Philip often asked Jesus direct questions, like in John 14:8 when he said, โLord, show us the Father.โ How can Philipโs willingness to ask questions help us in our own spiritual growth, knowing itโs okay to seek understanding and clarity in our walk with God?
How Can Philipโs Approach to Practical Challenges Shape Our Faith?
- In the story of feeding the 5,000, Philip focused on the practical problem, saying it would take too much money to feed everyone (John 6:7). What does this teach us about balancing faith and practical concerns in our own lives? How can we learn to trust God in impossible situations, even when we donโt see a solution?
What Can We Learn from Bartholomewโs Honesty and Skepticism?
- When Philip first told Bartholomew about Jesus, he questioned, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” (John 1:46). How does Bartholomewโs initial skepticism teach us to approach our doubts and seek truth? How can honest questioning lead us to a deeper understanding of God?
How Does Bartholomewโs Openness to Jesus Challenge Us?
- After meeting Jesus, Bartholomew quickly declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God” (John 1:49). How can his willingness to recognize Jesusโ divinity encourage us to be open to encountering Christ, even when we may have doubts at first?
Thomas: The Doubter Who Believed
Thomas, often called “Doubting Thomas,” is best known for doubting Jesus’ resurrection until he saw the wounds in Jesus’ hands and side. Despite his initial doubt, Thomas’s faith was ultimately strengthened, and he became a powerful witness for Christ.
Teaching about Thomas can help children understand that itโs okay to have questions and doubts, but faith and trust in Jesus will lead to understanding and belief. This is an important lesson for high school students, who may be grappling with their own questions about faith.
Reflection
What Can We Learn from Thomas’ Doubt?
- Thomas doubted Jesusโ resurrection until he could see and touch the wounds for himself. How can Thomas’ experience teach us that it’s okay to have doubts in our faith? How can we use those doubts as opportunities to seek truth and grow deeper in our relationship with God.
What Does Thomas Teach Us About Seeking Evidence?
- Thomas wanted tangible proof of Jesus’ resurrection. How can his desire for evidence remind us of the importance of asking questions and seeking a deeper understanding of our faith, rather than simply accepting things at face value?
James the Lesser, Simon the Zealot, and Thaddeus: The Lesser-Known Disciples
James the Lesser, Simon the Zealot, and Thaddeus (also known as Judas, son of James) are often less discussed in Sunday school lessons, but their roles as disciples are no less important. James the Lesser is believed to be the son of Alphaeus, and his title “the Lesser” likely refers to his younger age or smaller stature compared to the other James.
Simon the Zealot was part of a political movement seeking to overthrow Roman rule, showing that Jesus’ disciples came from diverse backgrounds. Thaddeus is known for asking Jesus at the Last Supper why He would reveal Himself to the disciples and not to the world. These disciples remind us that every follower of Jesus has a unique and important role to play in God’s plan.
The Calling of the First Disciples: A Bible Story for Children
One of the most powerful Bible stories for children is the calling of the first disciples by Jesus. This story, found in the New Testament, describes how Jesus called Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John to leave their fishing nets and follow Him.
The day Jesus called them marked the beginning of their journey as fishers of men. This story can be illustrated with a memory verse such as Matthew 4:19, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
The Great Commission: The Disciples’ Mission
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave His disciples the Great Commission, instructing them to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19-20).
This commission was not just for the 12 Apostles but for all believers, including the children in your Sunday school class. Emphasizing the Great Commission helps children understand their role in sharing the good news with others. This is an important aspect of any lesson plan supplement and can be included in creative activities for all target ages.
Creative Ideas and Activities for Teaching the 12 Apostles
Engaging younger children and older children in a lesson about the 12 Apostles can be achieved through a variety of creative activities. Here are some ideas to help make the lesson more interactive and memorable:
Disciple Trading Cards
Create disciple trading cards with the disciples’ names, a picture, and a brief description of each disciple’s role and background. Children can collect these cards and use them to learn about each of the disciples of Jesus. These cards can be printed on card stock for durability.
Alternatively you can cut out trading card size pieces of cardboard and get the students to draw a picture of each disciple.
Coloring Pages and Sheets
Provide coloring pages and sheets that depict scenes from the lives of the 12 Apostles, such as the calling of the first disciples or the Last Supper. These can be especially engaging for younger students, including preschool and 1st grade children.
Engaging Word Search Puzzle Worksheet
An engaging word search puzzle worksheet featuring the names of the 12 Apostles and key Bible terms is a fun way to reinforce the lesson. This activity is perfect for middle school students and can be part of a larger Bible characters activity bundle.
Fishing
Since many of the disciples were fishermen, a fishing net craft can be a fun way to illustrate their backgrounds.
Children can create a simple net using yarn or string and paper fish with the names of the disciples.
Adding cotton balls to represent waves or clouds can make this craft even more creative and visually appealing. Magnet fish and magnet fishing rod.
Discipleโs Song
Teach children a song that includes the names of the 12 Apostles. Music is a great way to help children memorize important information, and a catchy tune about the disciples’ names will stay with them long after the lesson is over.
Learning a disciples song activity is ideal for younger students and can be integrated into your preschool Bible lessons.
Here is a good one to start with.
Activity Sheets
Provide activity sheets that include puzzles, crosswords, and matching games related to the 12 Apostles. These can be tailored to different age groups, making them suitable for both 1st grade and middle school children..
12 Disciples Lesson Plan
Download our free coloring in sheets for your lesson plan. The pack includes 6 coloring in sheets including cut outs for the fishing game for younger children.
Hereโs a basic lesson plan for teaching about the 12 disciples, designed for a Sunday school or children’s church setting:
Lesson Title: The 12 Disciples of Jesus
Age Group: 6-10 years old
Objective:
- To introduce students to the 12 disciples of Jesus.
- To help students understand the role of the disciples in spreading Jesus’ teachings.
- To encourage students to think about how they can follow Jesus today.
Materials Needed:
- Bible
- A large poster or whiteboard with the names of the 12 disciples
- Printable handouts with the names and brief descriptions of each disciple
- Coloring sheets of the 12 disciples (optional)
- Crayons, markers, or colored pencils
- A simple memory verse (e.g., Matthew 4:19: “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”)
- Flashcards with the names of the disciples
- Stickers or small rewards
Lesson Outline:
1. Opening Prayer (5 minutes)
- Begin with a short prayer asking God to help the students learn and understand more about the 12 disciples and how they can be followers of Jesus.
2. Introduction to the 12 Disciples (10 minutes)
- Discussion:
- Briefly explain who the disciples wereโordinary people chosen by Jesus to help spread His teachings.
- Mention that they came from different backgrounds, including fishermen, tax collectors, and zealots.
- Activity:
- Show the poster or whiteboard with the names of the 12 disciples. As you go through each name, give a brief description (e.g., Peter was a fisherman, and he was one of the first disciples called by Jesus).
3. Bible Reading and Discussion (15 minutes)
- Bible Reading:
- Read aloud the calling of the first disciples in Matthew 4:18-22 and the list of the 12 disciples in Matthew 10:2-4.
- Discussion:
- Ask the students questions like:
- What do you think it was like for the disciples to leave everything and follow Jesus?
- How do you think the disciples felt about being chosen by Jesus?
- What can we learn from the disciples about following Jesus today?
4. Memory Verse Activity (10 minutes)
- Introduce the Memory Verse:
- Write the memory verse on the board: Matthew 4:19, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
- Activity:
- Practice saying the verse together. Use hand motions or a simple tune to help them remember the verse.
- Optional Game:
- Use flashcards with the names of the disciples and the memory verse. Have the students match the disciples to the verse or see who can say the verse the fastest.
5. Craft/Coloring Activity (15 minutes)
- Activity:
- Provide the students with coloring sheets of the 12 disciples.
- As they color, walk around and ask them to name the disciples they are coloring and what they remember about them.
- Discussion:
- Encourage them to think about which disciple they would like to be like and why.
6. Closing Reflection and Prayer (5 minutes)
- Reflection:
- Ask the students to share one thing they learned about the disciples.
- Discuss how they can follow Jesus in their own lives, just like the disciples did.
- Closing Prayer:
- End with a prayer asking God to help the students follow Jesus and be good disciples in their daily lives.
7. Optional: Take-Home Activity
- Handout:
- Provide a handout with a brief description of each disciple and a space for the students to write or draw how they can follow Jesus at home.
This lesson plan can be adjusted based on the time available, the age group, and the specific needs of your class.
Reflective Questions For Kids
1. Why Did the Apostles Follow Jesus?
The apostles left their jobs and families to follow Jesus. What do you think made them decide to follow Him? How would you feel if Jesus asked you to follow Him today?
2. What Can We Learn from Peterโs Mistakes?
Peter was brave but sometimes made mistakes, like when he denied knowing Jesus. Have you ever made a mistake or felt scared to stand up for whatโs right? What do you think Jesus would say to you if that happened?
3. How Were the Apostles Different?
The apostles were all different, like fishermen and a tax collector. How do you think Jesus used their differences to teach others? How can God use your unique gifts to help others?
4. How Did the Apostles Trust Jesus?
The apostles didnโt always know what was going to happen, but they trusted Jesus. Can you think of a time when you had to trust God even if you didnโt understand everything?
5. What Can We Learn from the Apostles Sharing the Good News?
After Jesus went to heaven, the apostles told people about Him, even when it was hard. How can you share the love of Jesus with your friends and family?
Reflective questions on the 12 apostles for Adults:
1. The Call to Follow Jesus:
The apostles left behind their families, jobs, and comforts to follow Jesus. How does their willingness to give up everything challenge us to evaluate what we might need to surrender in order to fully follow Christ today?
2. Diversity Among the Apostles:
The apostles came from various backgrounds, from fishermen to a tax collector. How does the diversity of the apostlesโ backgrounds encourage us to embrace unity in our faith communities, regardless of differences in social status or profession?
3. Peterโs Boldness and Failures:
Peter was known for his boldness in declaring Jesus as the Messiah, yet he denied Him three times out of fear. How does Peterโs journey teach us about overcoming personal failures and continuing to serve God despite our mistakes?
4. The Apostlesโ Struggle with Faith:
The apostles often showed doubt or confusion about Jesusโ teachings, even after witnessing His miracles. How do the apostlesโ struggles with faith reflect our own challenges in trusting God, and how can we grow through those moments of doubt?
5. Judasโ Betrayal:
Judas, one of the 12, betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. What lessons can we learn from Judasโ betrayal about the dangers of greed, temptation, and losing focus on our relationship with God?
6. Spreading the Gospel After Jesusโ Ascension:
After Jesusโ ascension, the apostles went into the world to spread the Gospel, often facing persecution and hardship. How can their courage inspire us to share our faith in our own communities, even when it may be difficult or uncomfortable?
I hope you enjoyed our ideas for a Sunday school lesson on the 12 apostles. What would you add to the lesson plan? Let us know in the comments below so that we can share them!
