The Men of Iron Minute

by Ryan Zook | Curriculum & Content Developer

The Thirteen Disciples of Jesus?

Jesus almost had thirteen disciples. Matthew 19 and Mark 10 tell the story of the rich young man or ruler, depending on which author you’re reading. The story has been read, preached, and discussed since the day it happened, so it’s probably gotten the attention it deserves. 

The story recounts a man who approached Jesus, hoping to inherit eternal life. There is some debate about his motivations and hesitations, but there is one critical part of the story. 

Jesus looks this man in the eyes and says, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 

Jesus invites him to be the thirteenth disciple. Only seven verses later, as part of Jesus’ conversation, Jesus promises his disciples that they will eventually sit on twelve thrones and judge the twelve tribes of Israel. (This is referred to again in the final book of the Bible, Revelation, so we know it’s not an empty promise.) 

There could have been thirteen disciples, thirteen apostles, and thirteen thrones. But that never happened. When this man weighed the pros and cons of following Jesus, he returned to serving his stuff. How embarrassing!  

Do any of his possessions even exist anymore? What could he have possibly owned that could have lasted up until today? We don’t even know the man’s name. The other twelve men who were standing there? Their names are known, repeated, and honored all around the world. They chose to serve Jesus rather than possessions. 

What do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your soul? 

Serving our stuff makes us blind and unable to achieve the real change the world needs. Being chained to our possessions stops us from being the men God designed us to be. Your stuff won’t last. Most of it will be worthless within the next ten years. Eventually, it will all disappear. 

Jesus’ name, Jesus’ authority, and Jesus’ kingdom will remain forever.  

Serve the right side. 

SUBSCRIBE | LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

30-Day Men’s Devotional, Fitness Challenge, Mentor & Coaching Resources. Check out our FREE RESOURCES and find the tool you need to help you become the man you want to be!