Book SummaryTwelve Ordinary Men, by John MacArthur

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Twelve Ordinary Men

The transformation and diversity within the group of twelve apostles.

John MacArthur emphasizes the stark contrast between the humble beginnings of the apostles and the immense impact they had on the world. John MacArthur highlights the unremarkable traits of the apostles, their diverse backgrounds, and their flaws, accentuating the deliberate selection by God of these specific individuals to lay the foundation of His church. The transformation of these modest individuals into powerful heralds, under the guidance of Jesus and driven by divine inspiration, conveys a vital lesson to contemporary believers: God delights in using the meek to achieve His heavenly purposes.

The Apostles were a group of everyday individuals from diverse backgrounds, not learned theologians or prominent religious leaders.

John MacArthur underscores that the choice of the apostles was unaffected by their social status, intellectual accomplishments, or their standing in religious circles. He repeatedly emphasizes their humble, working-class origins, comparing their backgrounds to those of ordinary believers today. The author highlights the authenticity of the apostles, underscoring their human qualities and shortcomings, as they navigated everyday struggles and individual limitations, rather than being idealized or perfect figures. The choice to spread Christianity globally using common, flawed individuals highlights the display of God's power instead of the innate abilities of the chosen messengers.

The disciples' origins were diverse, including fishermen, a tax collector, and one noted for his intense political beliefs.

MacArthur emphasizes the diverse backgrounds and distinct personalities of the apostles, demonstrating that God has the ability to use anyone willing to embrace His plan. Andrew, James, and John likely grew up and spent their formative years in close proximity to each other. Matthew's occupation, which involved collecting taxes, was especially despised, and this disdain was heightened by his Jewish ancestry. Before his conversion to Christianity, Simon was associated with the Zealots, who were recognized for their intense political activism. They held markedly contrasting views on social and political matters. Imagine a situation where a former tax collector and an ex-zealot are found in the same environment! Jesus' capacity to foster cohesion among His followers was evident as He transformed their innermost beings and guided them, showcasing the profound power of the Gospel to transcend divisions.

They exhibited a range of flaws and weaknesses, from impulsiveness to prejudice to doubts

The disciples came from diverse backgrounds and displayed a range of weaknesses and vulnerabilities. MacArthur contends that this aspect significantly contributes to the uplifting nature of their tale. Peter frequently made impulsive decisions or remarks without thoroughly contemplating the potential outcomes. James and John earned the nickname "Sons of Thunder" due to their fiery temperaments. Thomas struggled with his tendency toward skepticism and a negative outlook, while Philip frequently scrutinized circumstances too much, showing a deficiency in trust. Nathanael exhibited a feeling of community honor. Even though...

Twelve Ordinary Men Summary The foundational traits and backgrounds of the apostles

John MacArthur delves deeply into the traits and backgrounds of various selected apostles. The examples of Peter, Andrew, and James unequivocally illustrate the process by which God selects and molds people for His sovereign purposes. Each disciple was uniquely prepared to advance the spread of the Christian message due to their individual mix of skills, limitations, and backgrounds.

Peter consistently needed Jesus' guidance to temper his fervent and audacious leadership qualities.

Peter often made impulsive remarks as an apostle, which he would subsequently retract. Peter was often seen as a dynamic and influential leader, who not only embodied the sentiments of the other disciples but also demonstrated a deep, though sometimes wavering, faith in Christ. Jesus' guidance exemplifies the divine craftsmanship in transforming flawed and raw individuals into powerful instruments for achieving His holy purposes.

Peter had to replace his impulsive and self-assured tendencies with a more humble demeanor.

MacArthur points out that Peter's impulsive temperament frequently led him into challenging circumstances because he would often speak or take action without first...

Twelve Ordinary Men Summary Jesus chose ordinary people to serve as His apostles and transformed them profoundly, despite their flaws.

MacArthur skillfully interweaves the stories of these individuals, illustrating how extraordinary deeds are often achieved through regular, flawed people, thereby amplifying His glory. The apostles' ordinariness and weaknesses serve to highlight God's power, not their own. The diverse origins, flaws, and remarkable transformations of these individuals provide comfort to those who may see themselves as inconsequential.

Jesus intentionally chose people from common backgrounds rather than those who were religious authorities or part of the upper echelons of society.

MacArthur highlights the deliberate choice by Jesus to appoint the twelve apostles, a decision that purposefully disregarded the religious leaders of the time. The scribes, Sadducees, and priests had become so hardened in heart that they were increasingly resistant to acknowledging the truth. Jesus chose his followers from everyday people, such as those who caught fish for a living and someone who collected taxes, instead of selecting them from the scholarly religious upper class. The writer argues that the selection process was designed to show that genuine belief, not ritual acts or social standing, is what...

Twelve Ordinary Men Summary The remarkable achievements of individuals who may seem ordinary or possess flaws emphasize the importance of genuine faith.

John MacArthur concludes his examination of the twelve disciples by highlighting key lessons that their lives are intended to teach us. Despite their common abilities and many flaws in their pursuit of discipleship, the apostles were instrumental in launching a spiritual revolution that profoundly influenced countless individuals over the course of history. The author emphasizes several important truths towards the book's conclusion.

The influence of the apostles stemmed from a heavenly source, highlighted by their own limitations and lack of extraordinary qualifications.

MacArthur highlights that the significant influence of the apostles stemmed not from their personal capabilities but from the divine force operating within them. The author underscores that their choice was intentional, originating from a collective often regarded as insignificant and lacking in value. Their failure to understand the simplest teachings underscores that their later influence stemmed from a strength that was not their own.

They were not heroes or saints, but rather ordinary individuals confronting challenges that current believers also face.

MacArthur contends that we should view the...