news were the Zealots. For a long time, they had been plotting to rebel
against the Romans, but so far had found no plan that promised to be
successful. They believed that Jesus was the leader for whom they had
been waiting so long. He was brave. He stood up to the officials. He was
popular with the common people. One of their leaders decided to find out
what Jesus intended to do. His name was Simon. Well known in Galilee for
his courage, everyone called him "the Zealot." He made a special trip to
Capernaum that same week and came to Simon's home. Before the week was
past he became a follower of Jesus. But there were many things he found
it hard to understand.

"Tell me," he asked Simon and James privately, "does the Rabbi intend to
set up the new kingdom now?"

Simon was cautious. "The Master has said nothing about that."

The Zealot glanced about to make sure that the door and shutters were
tightly closed. "Do you not know that he could easily persuade the
people to revolt against Herod?"

James was alarmed. "But we're not ready for that yet."

Simon gave him a warning glance. He still mistrusted this man. "We plan
to tell everyone in this country our message," he said guardedly.

"If you are going to establish a free Jewish nation, you must do more
than talk," declared the Zealot. "You should organize!"

The fishermen looked at each other, doubting how much they should say.
Finally James said vaguely, "We think it won't be much longer."

"Why can't we do something definite about it?" said the Zealot.

"Do you really think he could be king of the Jews?" asked James.

"I'm certain of it!" replied the Zealot. "My people would follow him to
a man!"

James looked inquiringly at Simon. "I think most of the people would be
favorable, don't you?"

Simon shook his head doubtfully. "We ought to see what the Master
thinks. King Herod has many Roman soldiers under his command!"

"Listen, Simon," argued James. "The Master has spent plenty of time
teaching already. Everyone in Galilee has heard about the kingdom."
Simon didn't reply. "He intends to fight eventually," continued James.
"Didn't he say he came to bring conflict and not peace? I think it is
about time to stop talking and get to work!"

Simon stared at the ground. "Well, one thing is sure," he admitted. "The
Pharisees are all against us. They will keep us out of the synagogues."

"That is exactly why I think Jesus should openly declare himself king,"
af