The Twelve Apostles
The Synoptic Gospels name twelve disciples whom Jesus appoints and sends. Acts names the remaining eleven and records Matthias being chosen to take Judas Iscariot's place.
Why it matters
Comparing the four lists teaches both the stable identity of the apostolic body and the naming variations preserved by the sources.
Perspective note
Shared subject; this bundled record was originally written with an Orthodox-informed editorial lens.
Scripture
- Matthew 10:1-4 — Matthew's list of the Twelve and their mission authority.
- Mark 3:13-19 — Jesus appoints twelve to be with Him and to be sent to preach.
- Luke 6:12-16 — Jesus chooses twelve disciples and names them apostles.
- Acts 1:13 — The eleven are named after the Ascension.
- Acts 1:15-26 — Matthias is chosen to take the apostolic ministry vacated by Judas.
- Matthew 28:16-20 — The risen Christ commissions the eleven to make disciples of all nations.
Primary sources
Peter says one must:
Acts states the resurrection-witness criterion: one must become 'with us' a witness to Jesus' resurrection.
become with us a witness to his resurrection
Passage context and translation
In Acts, Peter states a criterion for the person who will take Judas's place among the Twelve: accompaniment from John's baptism through the ascension and witness to the resurrection.
Before the excerpt
beginning from the baptism of John