Matthew: Calling the Disciples — Leadership Recruitment Poster

Matthew: Calling the Disciples — Leadership Recruitment Poster

Help students explore Matthew 4:18–22 with this engaging No Prep Bible Study + Group Project Lesson for Grades 6–8. Students investigate the moment Jesus calls Peter, Andrew, James, and John away from their work as fishermen and invites them to become “fishers of men.”

Students examine the disciples’ immediate response, what they left behind, the meaning of Jesus’ invitation, and why Jesus chose ordinary working people as his first followers. They then work together to create a Leadership Recruitment Poster from Jesus’ perspective.

What’s Included
- Student-friendly lesson Overview
- Mini Research Questions
- 5-Step Group Activity
- Leadership Recruitment Poster project
- Research & Planning worksheet
- Calling the Disciples organizer
- Recruitment Poster planning/sketch page
- Online Resources

Students Will Explore
- The calling of Peter, Andrew, James & John
- Matthew 4:18–22
- The meaning of “fishers of men”
- What the disciples left behind to follow Jesus
- Their immediate response to Jesus’ call
- Why Jesus called ordinary people
- Modern connections to answering a call and finding purpose

Why Teachers Love This
- No prep and easy to implement
- Combines Bible study, research, collaboration, creativity, and reflection
- Moves students beyond simply retelling the biblical account
- Encourages meaningful discussion about leadership, trust, sacrifice, and purpose
- Works well for individual, partner, or small-group learning

Perfect For
Bible Class • Christian Schools • Homeschool • Sunday School • Youth Groups • Middle School Bible Study • Gospel of Matthew Units • New Testament Studies • Substitute Plans

Focus: Calling the Disciples • Matthew 4:18–22 • Peter • Andrew • James • John • Fishers of Men • Leadership • Following Jesus

Disclaimer: This is an independently created educational resource designed to support classroom instruction. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to any specific curriculum organization, examination board, or educational institution.