The Twelve Apostles

Description

The Twelve Apostles, also known as the Twelve Disciples, were the primary followers and chosen companions of Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry. They played a central role in the spread of Christianity after Jesus’ death and resurrection. The names of the Twelve Apostles are listed in the New Testament, and their importance in Christian tradition cannot be overstated.

1. Peter (Simon): Originally a fisherman, Peter was called by Jesus to be a “fisher of men” and became one of the most prominent apostles. He is often considered the leader of the apostles and is traditionally regarded as the first Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Peter was crucified in Rome, and he is often depicted as the one who denied Jesus three times before the crucifixion but later repented and became a key figure in early Christianity.
2. James (the Greater): The son of Zebedee and brother of John, James was one of Jesus’ closest disciples. He was part of the inner circle along with Peter and John. James was the first apostle to be martyred, as he was executed by the sword under the order of King Herod Agrippa I around 44 AD (Acts 12:2).
3. John: The brother of James, also a son of Zebedee, John is often called the “Beloved Disciple.” He is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of John, three epistles, and the Book of Revelation. John lived to an old age and is believed to have died of natural causes, though he faced exile on the island of Patmos.
4. Andrew: The brother of Peter, Andrew was a fisherman and one of the first disciples called by Jesus. He is often depicted as the patron saint of Scotland and is said to have been crucified on an X-shaped cross in Greece.
5. Philip: A native of Bethsaida, like Peter and Andrew, Philip was one of the first to follow Jesus. He is known for his role in bringing Nathanael (Bartholomew) to Jesus. Philip is believed to have preached in various regions and was eventually martyred.
6. Bartholomew (Nathanael): Bartholomew is often identified with Nathanael, who was introduced to Jesus by Philip. He is believed to have preached in several places, including India, Armenia, and Ethiopia, and he is said to have been martyred by being flayed alive.
7. Matthew (Levi): A tax collector before following Jesus, Matthew is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of Matthew. He is said to have preached in various places and was martyred for his faith.
8. Thomas (Didymus): Often known as “Doubting Thomas” due to his initial disbelief in Jesus’ resurrection, Thomas is believed to have traveled as far as India to spread the Gospel. According to tradition, he was martyred there.
9. James (the Lesser): The son of Alphaeus, James is sometimes referred to as “the Lesser” to distinguish him from James the Greater. Not much is known about his life, but he is traditionally believed to have been a leader in the early Christian community in Jerusalem and was martyred for his faith.
10. Thaddaeus (Lebbaeus or Judas, son of James): Thaddaeus is often identified as the one who asked Jesus at the Last Supper why he would reveal himself to the disciples and not to the world (John 14:22). He is sometimes also referred to as Lebbaeus or Judas the son of James. Tradition holds that he preached in places like Syria and Persia, and was martyred.
11. Simon the Zealot: Simon is called the Zealot, likely because of his association with the Zealots, a Jewish political movement that sought to overthrow Roman rule. He is believed to have preached in various regions, including Africa, and was martyred.
12. Judas Iscariot: The apostle who betrayed Jesus to the authorities for thirty pieces of silver. After Jesus’ arrest, Judas is said to have regretted his actions and took his own life. He was later replaced by Matthias (Acts 1:26) to restore the number of apostles to twelve.

• The Twelve Apostles were instrumental in the foundation and spread of Christianity. After the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, they traveled extensively to preach the Gospel and establish Christian communities.
• The apostles are often seen as the foundation of the Christian Church. In the Book of Revelation (21:14), the twelve foundations of the New Jerusalem are inscribed with the names of the Twelve Apostles.
• Their teachings, writings, and example have shaped Christian doctrine and continue to serve as models of faith, commitment, and witness for believers around the world.