Lots of people wanted to learn from Jesus; they called themselves 'disciples', which means learners or pupils.  However, the Master had selected just twelve of them to be on His apprentice training course to become the foundational apostles (Luke 6:12-16).  From now on, Jesus would be teaching and healing many of the crowd who came to Him, but, at the same time, He was training the future leaders of the Early Church.

News about Jesus travelled fast.  Soon, people were arriving in Galilee from all parts of Israel, from the religious south to the cosmopolitan coastal region in the west.  They came because they had a problem they could not solve, a need which propelled them to seek help from Jesus.  It was the first time that the trainee apostles had witnessed anything like it - whatever the disease, Jesus healed it.  The most powerful demons were expelled.  Nobody who came to Jesus was disappointed.  Everybody went away clean and free from their old problems; nobody remained a hostage to sickness, sin or Satan.

What was Jesus doing?  Teaching, showing compassion by using His Divine power, certainly; but also demonstrating to the Twelve that He had more power to give a clean new life than disease or demons could spoil.  It was important that they understood that Jesus was Lord of all if they were going to proclaim His total supremacy as the church grew and spread all over the Roman Empire.  Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection gave abundant proof of His eternal power to save all who come to Him in faith (Hebrews 7:25).

Many people are curious about Jesus today. The gospel from your mouth, with your testimony of His power in your life, is an essential part of witnessing for Christ (Acts 1:8).  Knowing what Christ has done for you, and why, should give you confidence to share with those who want to learn.  People want to know, ‘Does Jesus really have the power to save me?’ They may not ask that question directly, but their questions and probing into your Christian life is because they want to know if Jesus can meet their need and satisfy their hearts.  So be bold, yet humble.  They do not need spiritual super-salesmen, just satisfied customers!  If you know the power of the gospel in your life, don't be afraid or ashamed to tell others at work or with your neighbours.  Never forget, the gospel is still the power of God to save people (Romans 1:16)!