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Chapter 9—An Illustration of His Methods
The most complete illustration of Christ’s methods as a teacher
is found in His training of the first disciples. Upon these twelve men
were to rest weighty responsibilities. He had chosen them as men
whom He could imbue with His Spirit, and who could be fitted to
carry forward His work on earth when He should leave it. To them,
above all others, He gave the advantage of His own companionship.
Through personal association He impressed Himself upon these
chosen colaborers. “The life was manifested,” says John the beloved,
“and we have seen, and bear witness.”
1 John 1:2
.
Only by the communion of mind with mind and heart with heart,
of the human with the divine, can be communicated that vitalizing
energy which it is the work of true education to impart.
In the training of His disciples the Savior followed the system
of education established at the beginning. The Twelve, with a few
others who ministered to their needs and were from time to time
connected with them, formed the family of Jesus. They accompanied
Him on His journeys, shared His trials and hardships, and, as much
as possible, entered into His work.
Sometimes He taught them as they sat together on the moun-
tainside, sometimes beside the sea or from the fisherman’s boat,
sometimes as they walked together. Whenever He spoke to the mul-
titude, the disciples formed the inner circle. They pressed close
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beside Him that they might lose nothing of His instruction. They
were attentive listeners, eager to understand the truths they were to
teach in all lands and to all ages.
The first pupils of Jesus were chosen from the ranks of the com-
mon people. They were humble, unlettered fishermen unschooled
in the learning and customs of the rabbis, but trained by the stern
discipline of toil and hardship. They had native ability and a teach-
able spirit. They could be instructed and molded for the Savior’s
work. In the common walks of life there are many workers patiently
treading the round of their daily tasks, unconscious of latent powers
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