The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles is a significant event in the New Testament, marking the moment when Jesus Christ formally appointed His closest followers to carry out His mission. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 10:1-4, Mark 3:13-19, and Luke 6:12-16. Each account provides insight into the selection and purpose of the Twelve, who were chosen to be the primary witnesses of Jesus' ministry and to spread His teachings.

Selection of the Twelve

The selection of the Twelve Apostles was a deliberate and prayerful decision by Jesus. According to Luke 6:12-13 , "In those days, Jesus went out to the mountain to pray, and He spent the night in prayer to God. When daylight came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also designated as apostles." This passage highlights the importance of prayer in Jesus' decision-making process, emphasizing the divine guidance involved in choosing these men.

Names of the Apostles

The names of the Twelve Apostles are listed in the Gospels, with slight variations in order. According to Matthew 10:2-4 , the apostles are: "Simon, who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him." These men came from diverse backgrounds, including fishermen, a tax collector, and a zealot, reflecting the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry.

Purpose and Authority

The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles was not merely a selection of followers but an endowment of authority and responsibility. In Matthew 10:1 , it is stated, "Jesus called His twelve disciples to Him and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to drive them out and to heal every disease and sickness." This authority was a direct extension of Jesus' own power, enabling the apostles to perform miracles and preach the Kingdom of God.

Instructions for the Mission

Jesus provided specific instructions for the apostles' mission, emphasizing reliance on God and the urgency of their task. In Matthew 10:5-8 , Jesus instructed them, "Do not go on the road to the Gentiles, and do not enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give." These instructions highlight the initial focus on the Jewish people and the apostles' role in demonstrating the power and compassion of God's Kingdom.

Challenges and Warnings

Jesus also prepared the apostles for the challenges they would face, warning them of persecution and rejection. In Matthew 10:16-18 , He said, "Look, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. But beware of men; for they will hand you over to their councils and flog you in their synagogues. On My account, you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles." These warnings underscored the cost of discipleship and the spiritual warfare inherent in their mission.

Significance in Early Church

The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles laid the foundation for the early Christian Church. As eyewitnesses to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, the apostles played a crucial role in spreading the Gospel and establishing Christian communities. Their teachings and writings, inspired by the Holy Spirit, form the core of the New Testament and continue to guide the Church today.

The commissioning of the Twelve Apostles is a pivotal moment in the New Testament narrative, illustrating Jesus' strategic plan for the dissemination of His message and the establishment of His Church. Through their faithful witness and ministry, the apostles fulfilled their divine calling, impacting countless generations of believers.