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. Their selection and mission are pivotal in the New Testament narrative, as they were entrusted with spreading the Gospel and establishing the early Church. The accounts of their calling and ministry are primarily found in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles.

Names and Calling

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 the following list from Matthew 10:2-4: "These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon, 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."

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). Despite denying Jesus three times, he was restored and became a foundational figure in the early Church (John 21:15-19).

2. Andrew: The brother of Peter, Andrew was also a fisherman and a disciple of John the Baptist before following Jesus. He is noted for bringing others to Christ, including his brother Peter (John 1:40-42).

3. James son of Zebedee: Known as James the Greater, he was the brother of John. Together, they were called the "sons of thunder" (Mark 3:17). James was the first apostle to be martyred (Acts 12:2).

4. John: The brother of James, John is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of John, three epistles, and the Book of Revelation. He is referred to as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23).

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

6. Bartholomew (Nathanael): Often identified with Nathanael, he is noted for his initial skepticism about Jesus, which turned to faith upon meeting Him (John 1:47-49).

7. Thomas: Also known as Didymus, Thomas is famously remembered for doubting the resurrection until he saw the risen Christ (John 20:24-29). His declaration, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28), is a profound confession of faith.

8. Matthew: Also known as Levi, Matthew was a tax collector before being called by Jesus. He is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 9:9).

9. James son of Alphaeus: Often referred to as James the Less, little is known about him from the biblical texts.

10. Thaddaeus (Judas son of James): Also called Judas, not Iscariot, he 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 for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16), Judas' betrayal led to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. His remorse led him to return the silver and take his own life (Matthew 27:3-5).

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). Jesus gave them authority over unclean spirits and the power to heal every disease and sickness (Matthew 10:1). After His resurrection, Jesus commissioned them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands (Matthew 28:19-20).

Legacy

The Twelve Disciples played a crucial role in the foundation of the Christian Church. Their teachings and writings, inspired by the Holy Spirit, form a significant portion of the New Testament. Their lives and ministries continue to inspire and guide Christians in their faith and mission.