Setting the stage

In this class students will engage in a focused study of the twelve apostles of Jesus of Nazareth based primarily on Papers 139, 140, and 181 in The Urantia Book. Before looking at the individual lives of the apostles and unique relationships they enjoyed with Jesus, the class will study the context of Michael's bestowal mission to better understand the guidelines and limitations placed on the life of Jesus.

Getting to know the twelve

Next we will become thoroughly familiar with these twelve by conducting a personality study of each of the apostles and learning as much as is revealed about their home life, religious upbringing, work backgrounds, and key aspects of their lives. 

We will endeavor to discern the kind of relationship each had with Jesus and each other. What personal characteristics seemed to help and hinder them in how they related to Jesus and were able to receive his teachings? What did Jesus see in them? Why did they follow Him, and what did they most love about Jesus? 

How do we relate to each apostle?

As we do this, we will be reflecting back upon ourselves by considering which of the characteristics and experiences of the individual apostles we most relate to in own lives. The student will be  invited to choose one of the apostles to study in greater depth for the purpose of developing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the key episodes, accomplishments, challenges and failures of their apostle and themselves. The student will be invited and encouraged to reflect upon and share their own thoughts, feelings and experiences of what it means for them, personally, to “follow” Jesus. 

Getting to know and love the apostles and others

The process of discovering more about the character, experiences, history, and motivations of the twelve apostles, invariably leads to a more compassionate understanding of human nature and love of our fellows as well as greater self-awareness.