12 Disciples Of Jesus (Names In Order, Jobs, Characteristics)

The 12 disciples of Jesus were chosen to carry out His divine mission on earth. 

They were not mere followers but true companions, walking side by side with the Son of God.

Each disciple had his unique personality, background, and strengths, yet they all shared a common purpose - to spread the Gospel and bring salvation to all nations.

From Simon Peter, the bold and impulsive fisherman, to Matthew, the tax collector turned apostle, their lives were transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.

These twelve chosen disciples witnessed the miracles, heard the teachings, and experienced the love of Jesus firsthand. 

They were entrusted with the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven and given the authority to heal the sick, cast out demons, and proclaim the good news of salvation.

We will delve into the lives and characteristics of these extraordinary men, exploring their unwavering faith, their struggles, and their unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ. 

We can be inspired by their example and encouraged to follow in their footsteps, empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill our own unique calling in the Kingdom of God.

Who were the 12 disciples of Jesus in order?

They were His chosen companions and close followers, who walked alongside Him during His earthly ministry.

The names of the 12 disciples in order were Simon Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot. 

Each one of these disciples played a unique role in spreading the teachings of Jesus and witnessing His miracles. 

They were witnesses to His death, resurrection, and ascension. 

Through their obedience and faith, they became instruments of the Holy Spirit, proclaiming the Gospel and establishing the early church. 

Their lives serve as an inspiration for all believers to follow Jesus wholeheartedly and be led by the power of the Holy Spirit.

4. Andrew

Andrew was a fisherman from the town of Bethsaida and the brother of Simon Peter. 

He first encountered Jesus through the testimony of John the Baptist, who proclaimed Jesus as the Lamb of God.

Immediately captivated by this revelation, Andrew followed Jesus and spent the day with Him.

Andrew's next action was to find his own brother Simon and bring him to Jesus, declaring, "We have found the Messiah!".

Andrew played a crucial role in introducing Peter to Jesus, who would later become one of the most prominent disciples. 

Throughout his time with Jesus, Andrew faithfully followed and served Him, witnessing miracles and participating in the spread of the Gospel.

Andrew's life was characterized by a humble and obedient spirit, always ready to bring others to Jesus.

His devotion to Christ was evident in his actions, as he fearlessly shared the message of salvation with those around him. 

Andrew's willingness to step out in faith and proclaim Jesus as the Messiah serves as an inspiring example for all believers today.

5. Philip

Philip was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Himself.

He responded to the call of Jesus, leaving everything behind to follow Him.

Philip's journey with Jesus was marked by his unwavering faith and obedience. He witnessed countless miracles and heard profound teachings from the Son of God.

As a disciple, Philip played a significant role in spreading the good news of the Kingdom of God.

One of Philip's notable moments was his encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch.

Led by the Holy Spirit, Philip approached the chariot where the eunuch was reading the Scriptures. 

He explained the meaning of the Scriptures, pointing the eunuch to Jesus Christ and baptizing him.

Philip's life exemplifies the power of the Holy Spirit working through a willing vessel.

He humbly followed Jesus, allowing the Spirit to guide his steps and use him to bring salvation to others. 

May we, like Philip, have the same passion and dedication to share the Gospel with those around us.

6. Bartholomew

Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, was one of the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ.

He began his journey as a follower of Jesus when Philip, another disciple, invited him to come and see the Messiah. 

Bartholomew's encounter with Jesus was transformative, as Jesus saw him under a fig tree and declared him to be a true Israelite without deceit. 

Inspired by this revelation, Bartholomew proclaimed Jesus as the Son of God and dedicated his life to spreading the gospel.

While there are not many specific details about Bartholomew's ministry in the Bible, it is believed that he traveled to various regions, sharing the teachings of Jesus and performing miracles in His name.

Bartholomew's unwavering faith and commitment to Christ serve as an example for all believers, reminding us of the power of encountering Jesus and boldly proclaiming His truth to the world.

7. Thomas

Thomas was one of the 12 chosen disciples of Jesus Christ. He started following Jesus when he heard the teachings and witnessed the miracles performed by Jesus.

Thomas was known for his questioning nature and seeking evidence.

When Jesus appeared to the disciples after His resurrection, Thomas doubted and declared that he would only believe if he could see and touch the wounds of Jesus.

However, Jesus appeared again and invited Thomas to see and touch His wounds.

Thomas, overwhelmed with the presence of Jesus, exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" From that moment on, Thomas believed and became a devoted follower of Jesus.

Thomas played a significant role in spreading the teachings of Jesus after His ascension.

He traveled to different regions, proclaiming the Gospel and sharing the message of salvation. 

Tradition holds that Thomas traveled to India, where he established a Christian community.

Despite his initial doubt, Thomas became a faithful disciple and demonstrated great courage and commitment in sharing the message of Jesus.

Today, Thomas is remembered as "Doubting Thomas," but his journey serves as a reminder that even those who doubt can experience the transformative power of God.

8. Matthew

Matthew the disciple, also known as Levi, was a tax collector in Capernaum. 

He was called by Jesus to be one of His twelve disciples while sitting at the tax booth. 

Matthew immediately left everything behind and followed Jesus, leaving his life of tax collecting behind him.

As a disciple, Matthew accompanied Jesus throughout His ministry, witnessing His teachings, miracles, and interactions with people.

Matthew also played a key role in documenting the life and teachings of Jesus, as he authored the Gospel of Matthew, one of the four canonical Gospels in the Bible.

Through his gospel, Matthew aimed to present Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

He emphasized Jesus' teachings on righteousness, the Kingdom of Heaven, and the importance of faith. 

Matthew's gospel provides valuable insights into the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus, and continues to inspire and guide believers today.

9. James (Son of Alphaeus)

James, son of Alphaeus, was one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus to accompany him in his earthly ministry.

Although not much is known about James, he demonstrated his commitment to following Jesus by leaving everything behind and dedicating himself to the teachings and mission of Christ.

James, like the other disciples, witnessed countless miracles, heard profound teachings, and experienced firsthand the transformative power of Jesus' presence.

He was a faithful follower who embraced the message of love, repentance, and salvation preached by Jesus.

After Jesus' ascension, James continued to spread the Gospel and share the good news of salvation.

He played a crucial role in the early Christian community, contributing to the growth of the Church and the proclamation of the Kingdom of God.

While there are different traditions and interpretations about James' specific ministry and missionary efforts, what remains clear is his unwavering devotion to Jesus and his commitment to sharing the message of salvation with others.

James, son of Alphaeus, serves as an example of a humble disciple who responded to Jesus' call and dedicated his life to serving and proclaiming the power of the Holy Spirit.

He reminds us that through our own commitment to Christ, we too can be transformed and participate in the work of bringing salvation to the world.

10. Judas (The Greater)

Judas, also known as Jude Thaddaeus, was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ Himself.

He began following Jesus when he heard the call to leave everything behind and become a disciple. 

Judas witnessed the miracles performed by Jesus, heard His teachings, and experienced firsthand the love and power of the Holy Spirit working through Him.

Judas, like the other disciples, was entrusted with the mission of spreading the good news of salvation and healing the sick.

He was given authority by Jesus to cast out demons and cure diseases.

Alongside his fellow apostles, Judas played an integral role in establishing the foundation of the early church, sharing the message of hope and redemption.

Judas the Greater was a disciple of Jesus who experienced the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. 

He began following Jesus, witnessed His miracles, and played a significant role in spreading the gospel. 

11. Simon (The Zealot)

Simon, also known as Simon the Zealot, was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus mentioned in the Bible.

It is believed that he was a member of the Zealots, a political group known for their passion and zeal for the Jewish law and the liberation of Israel from Roman rule.

Simon's journey of following Jesus is not explicitly described in the Bible, but it is widely believed that he became a disciple after encountering Jesus during his ministry.

Like the other disciples, Simon witnessed the teachings, miracles, and the transformative power of Jesus.

As a disciple, Simon would have accompanied Jesus on his travels, witnessing his ministry firsthand and learning from his teachings.

Alongside the other disciples, Simon would have been involved in preaching the message of the Kingdom of God, healing the sick, and casting out demons.

While specific details about Simon's actions and contributions are not mentioned in the Bible, it is evident that he played a vital role in spreading the Gospel.

As a zealot, Simon's passion and dedication would have helped in proclaiming the message of Jesus and building the early Christian community.

Simon's identity as a Zealot indicates that he was committed to the cause of Jewish independence.

However, upon becoming a disciple of Jesus, he would have redirected his zeal and passion towards the Kingdom of God, embracing Jesus' teachings of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

Simon's exact fate or the manner of his death is not recorded in the Bible, but it is believed by tradition that he preached the Gospel in Egypt and Persia before being martyred.

Simon the Zealot was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ who, through his zeal and dedication, played a significant role in spreading the message of the Gospel. 

His transformation from a political zealot to a disciple of Jesus is a powerful example of the life-changing impact of encountering Christ.

12. Judas Iscariot

Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve chosen disciples, is a figure widely known for his betrayal of Jesus Christ.

In the Bible, he is portrayed as the one who handed Jesus over to the religious leaders, resulting in his crucifixion. 

But who was Judas Iscariot and how did he come to be a disciple of Jesus?

Judas, whose last name "Iscariot" indicates his place of origin, was likely from Kerioth, a town in Judea.

He joined the group of disciples early on in Jesus' ministry, along with the others. 

He witnessed the miracles, heard Jesus' teachings, and experienced the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

However, despite being chosen as one of the twelve, Judas had his own motivations and desires.

He was entrusted with the responsibility of managing the disciples' finances. 

However, he was a thief and would steal from the money bag for his own gain.

Greed and self-interest began to corrupt his heart, leading him down a treacherous path.

As Jesus' ministry progressed, Judas became increasingly disillusioned. He began to doubt Jesus' mission and questioned the value of his own discipleship.

The turning point came when a woman anointed Jesus' feet with expensive perfume.

Judas, driven by his own greed, criticized her, suggesting that the perfume could have been sold to benefit the poor.

But in reality, he wanted the money for himself.

Judas' betrayal unfolded during the Last Supper.

Jesus, aware of Judas' intentions, revealed that one of his disciples would betray him. 

Judas, knowing he had been exposed, left the gathering and conspired with the religious leaders to hand Jesus over in exchange for thirty pieces of silver.

Judas' actions led to Jesus' arrest, trial, and crucifixion. Filled with remorse, Judas returned the money and confessed his guilt, but it was too late.

Consumed by guilt and despair, he tragically ended his own life.

The story of Judas Iscariot serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of allowing personal desires and greed to corrupt one's heart.

It reminds us of the importance of remaining steadfast in our commitment to following Jesus and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to guard us against temptation and lead us in righteousness.

What can we learn from the characteristics of the disciples of Jesus?

The characteristics of Jesus' disciples teach us the value of humility and obedience. 

Their lives exemplify the power of the Holy Spirit working through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.

They were willing vessels, fully surrendered to God's will, and their actions inspire us to do the same.

The disciples' faith was tested time and again, yet they remained steadfast in their commitment to follow Jesus.

Their unwavering trust in the Holy Spirit enabled them to perform miracles, heal the sick, and proclaim the good news with boldness. 

They demonstrate that when we yield to the Spirit's leading, we become vessels through which God's power can flow.

From their mistakes and failures, we learn the importance of genuine repentance and seeking forgiveness.

Despite their shortcomings, the disciples experienced the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, who empowered them to grow and learn from their mistakes. 

Their lives remind us that God's grace is greater than our failures, and He can use even our weaknesses for His glory.

The disciples' unity and love for one another teach us the value of community and fellowship.

They supported and encouraged each other, standing strong in the face of persecution and opposition.

Through the Holy Spirit's guidance, they built a vibrant community that extended beyond racial, cultural, and social boundaries.

Their example challenges us to cultivate unity and love within the body of Christ.

The disciples' lives and characteristics point us back to Jesus. 

They were not the heroes of the story, but rather humble servants who recognized their need for the Holy Spirit's power. 

They directed all attention and praise to Jesus, the source of their strength. 

Their lives remind us that it is not by our own might or abilities, but by the power of the Holy Spirit, that true transformation and impact occur.

The deaths of the 12 disciples

The deaths of the twelve disciples of Jesus is a testament to their unwavering faith and commitment to spreading the message of salvation.

Each disciple, in their unique way, bore witness to the power of the Holy Spirit and ultimately gave their lives for their beliefs.

However, not all of the disciples' deaths are recorded in the Bible, but these are the ones we do know.

Peter, the rock on which Jesus built His church, was crucified upside down, not deeming himself worthy to die in the same manner as his Lord. 

Andrew, Peter's brother, was also crucified, spreading the Good News until his last breath.

James, the son of Zebedee, was the first disciple to be martyred. He was beheaded by Herod Agrippa I for his unwavering faith. 

John, the beloved disciple, was the only one to die a natural death, but not before enduring persecution and exile for the sake of the Gospel.

Philip, Bartholomew, and Thomas all faced martyrdom for their faith. Philip was crucified, Bartholomew was flayed alive, and Thomas was pierced with spears.

Matthew, the former tax collector, was slain by a sword in Ethiopia. 

James, the son of Alphaeus, was thrown from the pinnacle of the temple in Jerusalem and then beaten to death.

Simon the Zealot and Thaddeus, also known as Lebbaeus or Judas, were both martyred for their beliefs. Simon was crucified, and Thaddeus was shot with arrows.

Judas Iscariot, the betrayer of Jesus, took his own life out of remorse for his actions.

The deaths of these disciples serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for the sake of the Gospel.

They were filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaiming the message of salvation even in the face of persecution and death.

May their example inspire us to live with the same fervor and devotion to Christ.

Who was the first of the 12 disciples to be called by Jesus?

The first of the 12 disciples to be called by Jesus was Simon, who was later given the name Peter. 

Jesus saw great potential in him and knew that he would become a powerful leader in spreading the Gospel message.

Peter's encounter with Jesus was a divine appointment orchestrated by the Holy Spirit, setting him on a path of discipleship and ministry. 

Through the power of God, Peter was transformed from a simple fisherman into a bold and courageous apostle, instrumental in the establishment and growth of the early Church. 

The Holy Spirit continues to work in our lives today, calling us to follow Jesus and empowering us to fulfill our unique purpose in the advancement of God's Kingdom.

Why did Jesus call twelve disciples?

Many believe that Jesus called twelve disciples to symbolize the restoration of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Each disciple represents a tribe, and their unity demonstrates the coming together of God's chosen people. 

The number twelve is significant because it signifies completeness and divine order, mirroring the twelve sons of Jacob who became the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. 

Through the disciples, Jesus established a new covenant, revealing that all nations are included in God's plan of salvation.

The calling of the twelve disciples also highlights Jesus' authority and his desire to teach and train them to carry on his ministry after his departure.

Who was the brother to Jesus?

James, who many consider to be the half brother of Jesus, was a significant figure in the early Christian church. 

He played a crucial role in spreading the teachings of Jesus and establishing the foundation of the faith. 

James was an anointed vessel of the Holy Spirit, empowered to carry out God's divine plan. 

His life and ministry serve as a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit at work in the lives of believers. 

Through the guidance and indwelling of the Holy Spirit, James was able to fulfill his purpose and contribute to the advancement of the Kingdom of God.

Jude is also considered by some to be Jesus' half brother as well.

Who is the best friend of Jesus?

The best friend of Jesus is God, the Father, and the Holy Spirit, for it is the Spirit who dwells within Him, guides Him, and empowers Him to fulfill the will of the Father.

The three are essentially one, as is defined by the word 'trilogy'. 

God and the Holy Spirit are not merely companions, but a divine presence that brings comfort, wisdom, and strength to Jesus in His earthly ministry. 

This intimate relationship between Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit demonstrates the power and importance of fellowship and communion in our lives as well. 

We too have God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit as our constant companions and source of guidance, comfort, and empowerment.

What is the difference between apostles and disciples?

The difference between apostles and disciples lies in their roles and responsibilities.

Disciples are followers of Jesus Christ, learning from Him and spreading His teachings. 

Apostles, on the other hand, are specifically chosen and commissioned by Jesus to be His messengers and carry out His mission. 

Some consider them to have a higher level of authority and are sent out to proclaim the Gospel and establish the Church.

Who wrote the Gospels?

The Gospels were written by the inspired apostles and disciples of Jesus Christ, under the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

It is important to recognize that these accounts were not mere human writings, but divinely inspired testimonies of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Without the active presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit, the Gospels would lack the power and authority that they possess.

The Holy Spirit worked through these chosen individuals to ensure that the message of the Gospels would accurately convey the truth about Jesus and His redemptive work.

We can trust in the authenticity and reliability of the Gospels, knowing that they were written under the anointing and influence of the Holy Spirit.

We must not underestimate the significance of the Holy Spirit's role in the writing of the Gospels.

It is through the power of the Spirit that these accounts continue to impact and transform lives, leading people to encounter the living Christ and experience the salvation that He offers.

As believers, let us cherish and study the Gospels, recognizing that they are a precious gift from God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and designed to draw us closer to Jesus.

May the Holy Spirit continue to illuminate the truths within the Gospels, empowering us to live out the teachings of our Lord and Savior.

12 Disciples Of Jesus Bible Scripture Verses (KJV)

Matthew 28:18-20 - And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Matthew 5:14-16 - Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Luke 14:27 - And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.

2 Timothy 2:2 - And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

Ephesians 4:11-17 - And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

John 15:1-17 - I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.

John 13:34-35 - A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

Luke 6:40 - The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.

Luke 14:26 - If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

Luke 14:33 - So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

Titus 2:1-8 - But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

Acts 2:42 - And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Luke 9:23 - And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

John 8:31-32 - Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

Matthew 16:24-25 - Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.