1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Twelve Ordinary Men
In Twelve Ordinary Men, John MacArthur explores the lives of the apostles, emphasizing their ordinariness and the transformative power of Christ in their lives. He argues that Jesus chose these men not for their extraordinary abilities, but for their willingness to follow Him and be transformed by His teachings. MacArthur suggests that their stories demonstrate how God can use anyone, regardless of their background or abilities, to accomplish His purposes.
MacArthur is a prominent...
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Twelve Ordinary Men Summary The Apostles: Selection, Nature, and Foundation
MacArthur explains that the early church was built on the apostles. They served as the first Christian instructors and evangelists, and what they taught—documented in the scriptures—remains the sole standard for evaluating true doctrine, even now.
The apostles were given to edify the church and were the source of all true church doctrine. Prior to the New Testament's completion, they were the sole source of accurate information regarding Jesus and church beliefs. What they taught was viewed as equally authoritative to Scripture. The written New Testament is a divinely inspired, scriptural documentation of what the apostles taught.
The Roman Catholic View of Authority
The Roman Catholic Church disagrees with the idea that the apostles’ teaching in scripture is the sole standard for evaluating true doctrine. The Holy See states that the Church’s Magisterium (teaching authority) is the only authority that can interpret the Word of God, and that the Magisterium, Sacred Scripture, and Sacred Tradition are all equally authoritative. The Magisterium is the teaching authority of the Church, which is exercised by the Pope and...
Twelve Ordinary Men Summary The Apostles: Examples of Transformation and Enduring Impact
MacArthur explains that the apostles exemplify transformation and lasting influence. Their stories show how God can work through ordinary people to do extraordinary things. For example, James, John's brother, became the initial apostle to be martyred. He was so passionate and zealous that Jesus called him and his sibling "Sons of Thunder" due to their fiery temperaments. James’s zeal was initially mixed with selfish ambition, but God turned him into a leading apostle. MacArthur also mentions Nathanael, also called Bartholomew, who was a close friend of Philip and studied the Old Testament. He acknowledged Jesus as the Messiah from the outset and was fully committed to Him.
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Shortform Exercise: Selection of the Apostles
Reflect on the selection process of the apostles and their initial roles in building the early church, as discussed in SummaryText.
Why do you think Jesus chose ordinary men like fishermen and tax collectors as apostles instead of established religious leaders?
