The Twelve Disciples, also known as the Twelve Apostles, were chosen by Jesus Christ to be His closest followers and to carry forth His teachings. These men were selected from various walks of life and were instrumental in the establishment of the early Christian Church. The calling and mission of the Twelve are documented in the Synoptic Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles.

Names and Backgrounds

The names of the Twelve Disciples are listed in several passages, including Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, and Luke 6:13-16. The Berean Standard Bible provides these accounts:

1. Simon Peter: Often considered the leader of the Twelve, Peter was a fisherman by trade. He is known for his boldness and was the first to confess Jesus as the Messiah (Matthew 16:16). Jesus gave him the name "Peter," meaning rock, signifying his foundational role in the Church (Matthew 16:18).

2. James the son of Zebedee: Along with his brother John, James was a fisherman. He was part of Jesus' inner circle and was present at significant events such as the Transfiguration (Mark 9:2).

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, including his brother, to Jesus (John 1:40-42).

5. Philip: From Bethsaida, the same town as Peter and Andrew, Philip is known for his practical nature and for bringing Nathanael to Jesus (John 1:43-46).

6. Bartholomew (Nathanael): Known for his initial skepticism, Bartholomew was commended by Jesus for his honesty and integrity (John 1:47-49).

7. Matthew (Levi): A former tax collector, Matthew authored the Gospel that bears his name. His calling demonstrates Jesus' outreach to those considered sinners (Matthew 9:9).

8. Thomas (Didymus): Often remembered for his doubt, Thomas expressed a desire for tangible proof of Jesus' resurrection, leading to a profound declaration of faith (John 20:24-28).

9. James the son of Alphaeus: Sometimes referred to as "James the Less," little is known about him beyond his inclusion in the list of apostles.

10. Thaddaeus (Judas, son of James): Also known as Lebbaeus, Thaddaeus is noted for asking Jesus why He would reveal Himself to the disciples and not to the world (John 14:22).

11. Simon the Zealot: Known for his zeal, Simon was likely part of a Jewish nationalist group before following Jesus.

12. Judas Iscariot: Infamously known for betraying Jesus, Judas' actions led to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. His betrayal fulfilled Old Testament prophecies (Matthew 26:14-16, 47-50).

Role and Mission

The Twelve Disciples were chosen to be with Jesus, to learn from Him, and to be sent out to preach and perform miracles (Mark 3:14-15). They were witnesses to His teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. After Jesus' ascension, they played a crucial role in spreading the Gospel and establishing the early Church, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles.

Significance in Scripture

The Twelve hold a special place in Christian theology as the foundation of the Church. Jesus' choice of twelve mirrors the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing a new covenant community. Their lives and ministries are a testament to the transformative power of Jesus' call and the spread of His message to the ends of the earth.