National Association of Christian Ministers Summary Series
The 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ were individuals chosen by Jesus to be his closest disciples and witnesses to his teachings and ministry. Here is a summary list of the 12 Apostles along with scriptural citations from the New Testament:
1. Simon Peter: Often considered the leader of the Apostles. He was a fisherman from Bethsaida and brother of Andrew. (Matthew 4:18-20; Mark 1:16-18; Luke 5:1-11)
2. Andrew: Brother of Simon Peter and also a fisherman from Bethsaida. (Matthew 4:18-20; Mark 1:16-18; Luke 5:1-11)
3. James, son of Zebedee: He, along with his brother John, was a fisherman and part of Jesus’ inner circle. (Matthew 4:21-22; Mark 1:19-20; Luke 5:10)
4. John: Brother of James, also a fisherman, and known as the “beloved disciple.” (Matthew 4:21-22; Mark 1:19-20; Luke 5:10)
5. Philip: From Bethsaida, he was one of the earliest disciples called by Jesus. (John 1:43-48; John 6:5-7)
6. Bartholomew: Often identified with Nathanael, he was from Cana in Galilee. (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14; John 1:45-49)
7. Thomas: Often called “Doubting Thomas,” he was known for questioning the resurrection of Jesus. (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; John 11:16; John 20:24-29)
8. Matthew (Levi): A former tax collector who became one of Jesus’ disciples. (Matthew 9:9; Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27-28)
9. James, son of Alphaeus: Little is known about him from the Scriptures. (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15)
10. Thaddaeus (Judas, son of James): Also known as Lebbaeus, he is one of the lesser-known Apostles. (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:16; Acts 1:13)
11. Simon the Zealot: His background may suggest that he was a member of the Zealot political movement. (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:18)
12. Judas Iscariot: Infamous for betraying Jesus, leading to his crucifixion. He was replaced by Matthias after his death. (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:19; Luke 6:16; John 6:70-71; Acts 1:16-26)
Please note that the scriptural citations mentioned above are not exhaustive, but they provide references for the main passages in the New Testament where these Apostles are mentioned.
