The appointing of the Twelve Apostles is a significant event in the New Testament, marking the formal selection of Jesus Christ's closest followers who would become the primary messengers of His teachings and the foundation of the early Church. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 10:1-4, Mark 3:13-19, and Luke 6:12-16.

Context and Setting

The appointment of the Twelve Apostles occurs during the early part of Jesus' ministry. After performing numerous miracles and teaching large crowds, Jesus retreats to a mountainside to pray. According to Luke 6:12, "In those days, Jesus went out to the mountain to pray, and He spent the night in prayer to God." This period of prayer underscores the gravity and divine guidance involved in the selection process.

The Selection

The following day, Jesus calls His disciples to Him and chooses twelve from among them, designating them as apostles. The term "apostle" comes from the Greek word "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent out." This designation highlights their role as emissaries of Christ, entrusted with spreading His message and continuing His work.

The Gospel of Mark provides a succinct account of this moment: "He appointed twelve whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons" (Mark 3:14-15). This passage emphasizes the dual purpose of their appointment: companionship with Jesus and active ministry.

The Twelve Apostles

The names of the Twelve Apostles are consistently listed across the Gospels, though with slight variations in order and naming conventions. They are:

1. Simon Peter · Often considered the leader of the apostles, Peter is known for his boldness and is frequently mentioned in the Gospels.
2. James the son of Zebedee · Along with his brother John, James is part of Jesus' inner circle and is sometimes referred to as "James the Greater."
3. John · The brother of James, John is known for his close relationship with Jesus and is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of John, three epistles, and Revelation.
4. Andrew · The brother of Peter, Andrew is noted for bringing others, including Peter, to Jesus.
5. Philip · Known for his questioning nature, Philip plays a role in several key Gospel narratives.
6. Bartholomew (Nathanael) · Recognized for his initial skepticism about Jesus, Bartholomew becomes a devoted follower.
7. Matthew (Levi) · A former tax collector, Matthew is traditionally credited with authoring the Gospel of Matthew.
8. Thomas (Didymus) · Often remembered for his doubt, Thomas ultimately demonstrates strong faith and commitment.
9. James the son of Alphaeus · Sometimes called "James the Less," he is less prominently featured in the Gospels.
10. Thaddaeus (Judas, son of James) · Also known as Jude, he is distinguished from Judas Iscariot.
11. Simon the Zealot · Known for his zealous nature, Simon's background suggests a fervent commitment to Jewish nationalism.
12. Judas Iscariot · Infamously known for betraying Jesus, Judas' actions fulfill prophetic Scripture.

Significance

The appointment of the Twelve Apostles is foundational to the establishment of the Church. These men, diverse in background and temperament, are unified in their mission to proclaim the Gospel. Their selection reflects Jesus' intentional and prayerful decision-making, as well as His desire to equip and empower His followers for the work of the Kingdom.

The apostles' ministry, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles and other New Testament writings, demonstrates their pivotal role in spreading Christianity beyond the confines of Judea, ultimately reaching the Gentile world. Their legacy continues to influence Christian doctrine, practice, and ecclesiastical structure to this day.