When we think of Jesus’ disciples, we often imagine them as simple fishermen or humble men who left their professions to follow Jesus. But what were their actual jobs before they met him? Let’s take a closer look at the occupations of the 12 disciples.
Simon Peter
Simon Peter was a fisherman by trade, and he and his brother Andrew were partners with James and John in a fishing business on the Sea of Galilee. In fact, when Jesus called them to follow him, they were in the middle of mending their nets (Mark 1:16-20).
Andrew
As mentioned, Andrew was also a fisherman alongside his brother Peter.
James
James, along with his brother John, was also a fisherman on the Sea of Galilee. They worked together with Simon Peter and Andrew in their fishing business.
John
John was another fisherman on the Sea of Galilee, working alongside his brother James and Simon Peter.
Philip
Philip’s occupation is not explicitly stated in the Bible, but some scholars believe that he may have been a fisherman like several of the other disciples.
Matthew
Matthew (also known as Levi) was a tax collector before he became a disciple. Tax collectors were often despised by society because they were seen as collaborators with the Roman authorities who oppressed the Jewish people.
Thomas
Thomas’ occupation is not mentioned in the Bible, so it is unclear what job he had before becoming a disciple.
Judas Iscariot
Judas Iscariot was also a tax collector like Matthew before becoming one of Jesus’ disciples.
James son of Alphaeus
James son of Alphaeus is believed to have been a carpenter before becoming a disciple.
Thaddaeus
Thaddaeus (also known as Judas, not Iscariot) was possibly a farmer or a laborer before becoming a disciple.
Simon the Zealot
Simon the Zealot’s occupation is not explicitly stated in the Bible, but some scholars believe that he may have been a revolutionary or political activist.
Judas son of James
Judas son of James’ occupation is not mentioned in the Bible, so it is unclear what job he had before becoming a disciple.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the disciples had a variety of occupations before they met Jesus. Some were fishermen, others were tax collectors, and still, others may have been carpenters or farmers. Despite their different backgrounds and professions, they all left their lives behind to follow Jesus and became some of the most dedicated and influential followers of all time.