Bible Characters
Who were the twelve disciples?A Scripture-grounded answer about jesus and disciples
Published Reviewed
Published Reviewed
The twelve disciples were: Simon Peter, Andrew, James son of Zebedee, John, Philip, Bartholomew (Nathanael), Matthew (Levi), Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus (Judas son of James), Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot (later replaced by Matthias). Jesus chose them to learn from Him, witness His ministry, and carry the gospel to the world.
Why this answer? It starts with Mark 3:14, then cross-checks Matthew 10:2-4 and Luke 6:13-16 so the summary stays anchored in Scripture.
Jesus chose twelve ordinary men to be His closest followers, a deliberate echo of the twelve tribes of Israel, signaling the renewal of God's people. Mark 3:14 states He appointed them for two purposes: to be with Him and to be sent out to preach. The twelve apostles listed in Matthew 10:2-4 came from diverse backgrounds—fishermen (Peter, Andrew, James, John), a tax collector (Matthew), a political zealot (Simon the Zealot), and others whose occupations go unrecorded. What united them was not their qualifications but Jesus' call. Peter emerged as the spokesman, often bold and impulsive. John was described as the disciple Jesus loved. Thomas, unfairly labeled a doubter, made one of the greatest confessions of faith: My Lord and my God. Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus and was later replaced by Matthias through prayer and casting lots (Acts 1:26). After Pentecost, these men—now empowered by the Holy Spirit—turned the world upside down. The choice of disciples vs apostles in terminology reflects their journey: disciples (learners) who became apostles (sent ones), carrying the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth.
“And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach.”
- Mark 3:14
Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, who became human to save humanity from sin. Christians believe He is fully God and fully man, born of the Virgin Mary, who died on the cross for our sins and rose again on the third day.
Peter was a fisherman called by Jesus to be one of the Twelve Apostles. Despite denying Christ three times, he was restored and became a bold leader of the early church. He preached at Pentecost, opened the Gospel to Gentiles (Cornelius), and wrote two New Testament letters.
Paul (originally Saul) was a Pharisee who persecuted Christians until encountering the risen Christ on the Damascus road. He became the greatest missionary, planting churches throughout the Roman Empire and writing 13 New Testament letters. His theology of grace shapes Christian understanding to this day.
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Answers are informed by Scripture and trusted theologians including Matthew Henry, John Calvin, and John Wesley. Always verify with Scripture and consult your local church for pastoral guidance.