The Twelve Apostles
The Twelve Apostles, also known as Disciples, were a group of individuals chosen by Jesus Christ to be his closest companions and followers during his ministry on Earth. Each apostle played a significant role in spreading the teachings of Jesus and establishing Christianity. After Judas Iscariot's betrayal and subsequent death, the remaining apostles chose a replacement, bringing the total number to twelve again. Here are the names and monikers of these significant figures, along with a brief description of their personalities:
1. Simon Peter: Also known as Simon bar Jonah or Cephas, Peter was one of Jesus' closest disciples and is often regarded as the "rock" upon which the Christian Church was built. He was bold and impulsive, sometimes making hasty decisions, but ultimately he exhibited great faith and loyalty to Jesus.
2. Andrew: Brother of Peter, Andrew was an enthusiastic and humble disciple. He is known for bringing his brother to Jesus and for being a bridge-builder, introducing people to Christ.
3. James, the Greater: Also known as James the son of Zebedee, he was part of the inner circle of Jesus' disciples along with Peter and John. He was zealous and ambitious, seeking places of honor in Jesus' kingdom.
4. John: Often referred to as the "Beloved Disciple," John was the brother of James and had a deep and profound love for Jesus. He was known for his caring nature and was the only apostle present at the crucifixion.
5. Philip: Philip was practical and down-to-earth, often seeking logical explanations. He had a heart for the Gentiles and played a crucial role in bringing Nathanael to Jesus.
6. Bartholomew: Also identified with Nathanael, Bartholomew was genuine and sincere, with no deceit in his heart. He had doubts at first but later became a devoted follower.
7. Thomas: Often referred to as "Doubting Thomas," he was initially skeptical but later showed unwavering faith after encountering the resurrected Jesus.
8. Matthew: Also known as Levi, Matthew was a tax collector before becoming an apostle. He was detail-oriented and wrote the Gospel of Matthew, emphasizing Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecies.
9. James, the Lesser: Sometimes called James the son of Alphaeus, he was a lesser-known apostle, and not much is recorded about his personality in the Gospels.
10. Thaddeus: Also known as Lebbaeus or Judas, he was passionate and zealous about his faith. He is often associated with preaching the Gospel in distant regions.
11. Simon the Zealot: Simon was a former member of the Zealot movement, a group of Jewish nationalists opposing Roman rule. He likely had strong political views before becoming an apostle.
12. Judas Iscariot: Infamous for betraying Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, Judas' name is often associated with treachery and betrayal. He tragically ended his life after realizing the gravity of his actions.
13. Matthias: After Judas Iscariot's betrayal and suicide, the remaining apostles decided to choose a replacement. Matthias was selected to fill the vacant position, making him the thirteenth apostle. Not much is known about his personality from the biblical accounts.
These twelve apostles, along with Matthias, played pivotal roles in spreading Christianity and establishing the early Christian Church. Their diverse personalities and backgrounds contributed to the unique dynamics of the group and demonstrated the transformative power of Jesus' teachings. Despite their imperfections, they devoted their lives to sharing the message of love, redemption, and salvation that Jesus brought to the world.
Estimated walking time
5 Hours
Estimated running time
2.5 Hours
Estimated cycling time
1.5 Hours
Luke - 6:14
Simon, whom he named Peter...
York Central Library
Simon named Peter by Jesus - the Rock
Luke - 6:14
... and his brother Andrew
New Earswick Library
'and his [Peter's] brother in the gospel of Matthew.'
Luke - 6:14
... and James
Wiggington & Haxby Library
James son of Zebedee brother of John and one of the Boanerges - sons of thunder.
Luke - 6:14
... and John,
Strensall Library
"John - a son of Zebedee and Boanerges a son of thunder."
Luke - 6:14
... and Philip,
Huntington Library
"No other names than Philip"
Luke - 6:14
... and Bartholomew,
Tang Hall Library
"Key scriptural text to be added"
Luke - 6:15
... and Matthew,
Dunnington Library
"Key scriptural text to be added"
Luke - 6:15
... and Thomas,
Fulford Library
"Key scriptural text to be added"
Luke - 6:15
... and James son of Alphaeus,
Bishopthorpe Library
"Key scriptural text to be added"
Luke - 6:15
... and Simon, who was called the zealot,
Copmanthorpe Library
"Key scriptural text to be added"
Luke - 6:16
... and Judas son of James,
Dringhouses Library
"Key scriptural text to be added"
Luke - 6:16
... and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.
Acomb Library
"Key scriptural text to be added"
TBC
Matthias
Poppleton Library
"Key scriptural text to be added"