The term "The Twelve Men" typically refers to the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. These men were selected to be His closest followers and were entrusted with spreading the Gospel and establishing the early Church. The selection of the Twelve is a significant event in the New Testament, symbolizing the foundation of the new covenant community, akin to the twelve tribes of Israel.

Selection and Names of the Twelve

The selection of the Twelve is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is written: "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" (Matthew 10:1). The names of the twelve apostles are listed as follows: Simon (who is called Peter), Andrew his brother, James son of Zebedee, John his brother, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew the tax collector, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who later betrayed Him (Matthew 10:2-4).

Role and Mission

The Twelve were given a unique role in the ministry of Jesus. They were not only witnesses to His teachings and miracles but were also sent out to preach the message of repentance and the coming of the Kingdom of God. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus commissions them: "He appointed twelve, whom He named apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons" (Mark 3:14-15).

Training and Teaching

Throughout the Gospels, the Twelve are depicted as being in close proximity to Jesus, receiving direct teaching and witnessing His works. They were present at key events such as the Sermon on the Mount, the Transfiguration, and the Last Supper. Jesus often used parables and direct instruction to prepare them for their future mission. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus emphasizes the importance of their role: "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see" (Luke 10:23).

Betrayal and Restoration

The narrative of the Twelve includes the betrayal by Judas Iscariot, which is a pivotal moment in the Passion of Christ. Judas's betrayal is foretold by Jesus during the Last Supper: "Truly I tell you, one of you will betray Me" (Matthew 26:21). After Judas's betrayal and subsequent death, the remaining apostles sought to restore their number to twelve. In the Acts of the Apostles, Matthias is chosen by casting lots to replace Judas, as recorded: "Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles" (Acts 1:26).

Legacy and Impact

The Twelve apostles played a foundational role in the establishment of the early Church. After the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, they were empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost to preach boldly and perform miracles. Their teachings and actions are chronicled in the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles, which form a significant portion of the New Testament. The apostles' legacy is seen in the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire and beyond, as they fulfilled the Great Commission to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19).

Symbolism and Significance

The Twelve apostles hold symbolic significance as representatives of the new Israel, the Church. Their number reflects the twelve tribes of Israel, indicating continuity and fulfillment of God's promises. The Book of Revelation alludes to their enduring legacy, describing the New Jerusalem with twelve foundations, "and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb" (Revelation 21:14). This imagery underscores their integral role in the divine plan of salvation history.