The term "apostle" is derived from the Greek word "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent out." In the New Testament, the apostles are primarily the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus Christ to be His closest followers and to carry forth His teachings after His ascension. The role of the apostles was foundational in the establishment of the early Church, and their teachings and actions are recorded throughout the New Testament.

The Twelve Apostles

The twelve apostles are listed in several passages of the New Testament, including Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, and Luke 6:13-16. They are:

1. Simon Peter · Often considered the leader of the apostles, Peter was a fisherman by trade. He is known for his boldness and was the first to confess Jesus as the Christ (Matthew 16:16). Jesus said to him, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18).

2. James the son of Zebedee · Brother of John, James was part of Jesus' inner circle. He was the first apostle to be martyred, as recorded in Acts 12:2.

3. John · The brother of James, John is often referred to as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23). He authored the Gospel of John, three epistles, and the Book of Revelation.

4. Andrew · The brother of Peter, Andrew was also a fisherman. He is noted for bringing others to Jesus, including his brother Peter (John 1:40-42).

5. Philip · Known for his evangelistic zeal, Philip brought Nathanael to Jesus (John 1:45-46).

6. Bartholomew (Nathanael) · Recognized for his initial skepticism, he was convinced of Jesus' identity after a personal encounter (John 1:47-49).

7. Matthew (Levi) · A former tax collector, Matthew authored the Gospel that bears his name. His calling is recorded in Matthew 9:9.

8. Thomas (Didymus) · Often remembered for his doubt, Thomas made a profound declaration of faith upon seeing the risen Christ: "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28).

9. James the son of Alphaeus · Sometimes referred to as James the Less, little is known about his life and ministry.

10. Thaddaeus (Judas, son of James) · Also known as Lebbaeus, he is mentioned in the lists of apostles but little else is recorded about him.

11. Simon the Zealot · Known for his zeal, Simon was a member of the Zealots, a Jewish nationalist group.

12. Judas Iscariot · The apostle who betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16). His betrayal led to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. Judas later took his own life (Matthew 27:5).

The Role and Authority of the Apostles

The apostles were given authority by Jesus to preach the Gospel, heal the sick, and cast out demons (Matthew 10:1). After Jesus' resurrection, He commissioned them to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). The apostles were witnesses to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, and their testimony laid the foundation for the Christian faith.

Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles

Though not one of the original twelve, Paul is recognized as an apostle due to his encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:3-6). Paul described himself as "an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father" (Galatians 1:1). His missionary journeys and epistles significantly contributed to the spread of Christianity and the theological understanding of the Church.

The Apostolic Age

The period during which the apostles were active is often referred to as the Apostolic Age. This era was marked by the rapid expansion of the Church, the writing of the New Testament, and the establishment of Christian doctrine. The apostles' teachings, preserved in Scripture, continue to guide the Church today.

Legacy of the Apostles

The apostles' legacy is evident in the creeds, liturgies, and teachings of the Christian Church. Their lives exemplify faith, sacrifice, and dedication to the mission of Christ. As foundational figures, the apostles serve as models for Christian leadership and discipleship.