The pattern of discipleship that Jesus used is absolutely what we should follow. However, many people believe that Jesus was like a modern day youth pastor who took 12 kids out of their homes and displaced their fathers. Let’s explain some facts about the ministry of Jesus. First, Jesus’ ministry on the earth lasted for a period of about three years. Second, Jesus had twelve men that consistently followed him during that time. Third, these men came from many different walks of life. Fourth, there is no indication they were teens. We do not know exactly how old they were, but we do know that Peter was married. Matthew had a career as a tax collector. Some of them were fishermen. Fifth, there is no indication whatsoever that Christ’s pattern for choosing his twelve disciples was based upon their age or life-stage.

Looking through the biblical examples of training, the pervasive means God teaches in His Word is discipleship, and Jesus with His disciples was no exception. Life-on-life, Jesus walked with His disciples for three years – training them, molding them, teaching them of the things of the kingdom of God. The disciples saw Him overthrow the changers of money in the temple (John 2:17). They heard words of life come from His gracious lips (Matthew 5:1-2). They saw His mighty works (Mark 4:41).

Jesus with His disciples is one of the most vivid and detailed examples of active, biblical discipleship in the Word of God. It was not age-segregated or age-specific discipleship. It was the discipleship of fishers of men. Paul followed in Christ’s steps and discipled Timothy.

It is biblical for elders to have young people whom they disciple, but it is discipleship that must occur. If you as an elder would pattern yourself after Jesus, follow Jesus’ example of discipleship. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul writes, “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” Jesus walked with the twelve and committed His Word unto them, such that He commanded them to teach that Word to the nations and to “make disciples.” The Great Commission says, “‘Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen” (Matt. 28:19-20).