When Jesus began His ministry on earth, He chose twelve men to be His closest disciples. These men would accompany Him as He preached, performed miracles, and ultimately fulfilled God’s plan for salvation.
But who were these men? Let’s take a closer look.
The Twelve Disciples
- Peter
- Andrew
- James
- John
- Philip
- Bartholomew (also known as Nathanael)
- Matthew (also known as Levi)
- Thomas
- James (son of Alphaeus)
- Judas (son of James, also known as Thaddaeus or Lebbaeus)
- Simon the Zealot
- Judas Iscariot (who would later betray Jesus)
Peter, Andrew, James, and John
Peter, whose name was originally Simon, was a fisherman from Bethsaida. He was married and had a brother named Andrew. Jesus gave him the nickname “Peter,” which means “rock,” and declared that on this rock He would build His church.
Andrew, Peter’s brother, was also a fisherman from Bethsaida. He brought his brother to meet Jesus and became one of His first disciples.
James and John, also brothers, were fishermen from Galilee. They were sometimes called the “sons of thunder” because of their fiery personalities. They were two of Jesus’ closest disciples and were present at many important events in His life.
The Other Disciples
Philip was from Bethsaida and was one of the first disciples Jesus called. He later introduced Nathanael to Jesus.
Bartholomew (Nathanael) was from Cana in Galilee. He initially doubted that anything good could come from Nazareth, but Philip convinced him to meet Jesus. Jesus praised Nathanael’s honesty and said he would see greater things than he could imagine.
Matthew (Levi) was a tax collector before becoming a disciple. Jesus called him while he was sitting in his tax booth, and Matthew immediately left everything to follow Him.
Thomas, also known as “Doubting Thomas,” was skeptical when the other disciples told him that they had seen the risen Christ. However, when Jesus appeared to him and showed him His wounds, Thomas declared, “My Lord and my God!”
James (son of Alphaeus), also known as James the Less, is one of the least-known disciples. He may have been related to Jesus in some way.
Judas (son of James), also known as Thaddaeus or Lebbaeus, is another lesser-known disciple.
Simon the Zealot is believed to have been a member of a group called the Zealots, who were known for their political activism against Roman rule.
Judas Iscariot, who would later betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, was the treasurer among the disciples.
In Conclusion
These twelve men were chosen by Jesus Himself to be His closest followers during His time on earth. They witnessed His teachings, miracles, death on the cross, and resurrection from the dead. Their names are recorded in history as those who were willing to leave everything behind and follow Him on His mission to save humanity.