The twelve disciples, also known as the twelve apostles, were chosen by Jesus Christ to follow Him, learn from Him, and spread His teachings. Here are their names along with a brief description of each:
Peter (Simon Peter)
Originally named Simon, Jesus gave him the name Peter, which means “rock.”
Known for his strong faith and leadership among the disciples.
Denied Jesus three times before the crucifixion but was later reinstated by Jesus.
James (son of Zebedee)
Often referred to as James the Greater.
Brother of John and part of Jesus’ inner circle.
The first apostle to be martyred.
John (son of Zebedee)
Brother of James and also part of Jesus’ inner circle.
Known as the “beloved disciple.”
Traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of John, three epistles, and Revelation.
Andrew
Brother of Peter.
Originally a disciple of John the Baptist before following Jesus.
Known for bringing people to Jesus, including his brother Peter.
Philip
From the town of Bethsaida, like Peter and Andrew.
Known for asking Jesus to show the Father, to which Jesus replied, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”
Bartholomew (Nathanael)
Often identified as Nathanael in the Gospel of John.
Known for Jesus’ comment about him being “a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false.”
Matthew (Levi)
A former tax collector.
Traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of Matthew.
Thomas (Didymus)
Also known as “Doubting Thomas” for doubting Jesus’ resurrection until he saw Him.
Later made a strong confession of faith, saying, “My Lord and my God!”
James (son of Alphaeus)
Often referred to as James the Less or James the Younger.
Less is known about him compared to the other apostles.
Thaddaeus (Jude)
Also known as Judas son of James, not to be confused with Judas Iscariot.
Sometimes called Lebbaeus or Thaddaeus.
Simon the Zealot
Known for his zealous passion, possibly part of the Zealot party that sought to overthrow Roman rule.
Judas Iscariot
Known for betraying Jesus to the religious leaders for thirty pieces of silver.
His betrayal led to Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion.
After the betrayal and death of Judas Iscariot, Matthias was chosen by the remaining eleven disciples to replace him, as described in the Book of Acts (Acts 1:15-26).