Matthew 10:2-4
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The term "apostles" is used here for the first time, marking a shift from "disciples" to individuals officially "sent forth" with authority. This new designation, with its root meaning "one who is sent," highlights their divine commission beyond mere learning. The careful listing of names, especially placing Simon first and explicitly calling him Peter, signals not just recognition but the conferral of a new, foundational identity for the mission ahead.
The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Jesus is commissioning his twelve closest followers for their first official mission. He's about to send them out to preach the kingdom, heal the sick, and cast out demons, giving them specific instructions and warnings. This list of names marks the beginning of that pivotal charge, introducing the men who would carry out this immediate work and later spread the gospel throughout the world.
Jesus didn't just call followers; He commissioned them. The word 'apostle' carries a powerful weight, revealing their unique role.
The term 'apostle' (from the Greek word 'apostolos') literally means 'one who is sent forth.' This is distinct from 'disciple,' which means 'learner' or 'follower.'
Sent with Authority
While all disciples are learners, apostles are specifically appointed and empowered by Jesus to carry His message and authority.
Why is Simon Peter always listed first? It's more than just an arbitrary order; it points to a recognized leadership.
The consistent placement of Simon Peter at the head of the apostolic lists isn't accidental. It signifies his unique role and preeminence among the twelve.
Primus Inter Pares (First Among Equals)
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While Jesus is the sole head of the Church, Peter held a distinct position among the apostles:
Notice how several pairs in this list are brothers. This wasn't just a coincidence; it speaks to the relational nature of Jesus' call.
The inclusion of family relationships among the apostles highlights the deep personal bonds Jesus fostered within His inner circle.
Bonds Forged in Faith
Understand the original words
apostolos · Greek Noun
One who is sent out with a specific mission or commission; in the New Testament, it signifies those officially appointed by Jesus as his primary representatives and ambassadors.
telōnēs · Greek Noun
A term used for a person who collected taxes for the Roman government; they were often viewed by fellow Jews as collaborators, traitors, and ceremonially unclean.
zēlōtēs · Greek Noun
A descriptor for a group in first-century Judaism characterized by intense zeal for the Law of Moses and often associated with militant opposition to Roman occupation.
paradidōmi · Greek Verb
To deliver someone to an enemy; in the context of Judas, it refers to the act of treachery where he handed Jesus over to the authorities to be arrested.
The formal naming of the twelve apostles in Matthew 10 signifies their appointment as Jesus' official representatives. This event is grounded in their prior calling and their subsequent roles in the nascent Christian movement, with figures like Peter, James, and John already demonstrating unique closeness to Jesus.
c. AD 28— this verse
Calling of the First Disciples
Jesus calls Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John to leave their fishing businesses and follow Him. This marks the initial selection of individuals who would become central to His ministry.
c. AD 28
Jesus Appoints the Twelve
Jesus formally designates twelve men from His broader group of disciples to be His closest companions and emissaries. This appointment solidifies their role and authority.
c. AD 30
Jesus' Ministry and Teaching
Throughout His public ministry, Jesus teaches, heals, and performs miracles, with the twelve apostles actively involved, learning from Him and assisting in His work.
c. AD 30
Transfiguration Event
Peter, James, and John are chosen by Jesus to witness the Transfiguration, a pivotal event revealing His divine glory. This highlights their special status among the apostles.
c. AD 33
Crucifixion and Resurrection
Jesus is crucified, and the apostles scatter in fear. Following the resurrection, they are commissioned to spread the Gospel, with Peter often taking a leading role.
c. AD 44
Martyrdom of James
James, the son of Zebedee, becomes the first of the apostles to be martyred, executed by King Herod Agrippa. This event underscores the dangers faced by the early followers of Jesus.
c. AD 64-67
Peter's Ministry and Martyrdom
Simon Peter becomes a foundational leader of the early church, writing epistles and eventually suffering martyrdom, tradition says by crucifixion upside down.
This passage directly parallels Matthew 10:2 by listing the same twelve apostles, highlighting the consistency of their selection and the importance of this core group.
Acts 1:13This list of apostles, given after Jesus' ascension, shows the continuity of the original twelve, with Peter, James, and John still holding prominent positions.
John 1:40-42This passage describes the initial calling of Andrew and Simon Peter, providing context for why Peter is often listed first and hinting at his leadership role.
Mark 3:16-19This parallel account of the naming of the apostles, along with the 'Boanerges' nickname given to James and John, adds a layer of insight into the personalities and potential of these individuals.
vincentMatthew 10:2: "Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;"
Apostles (ἀποστόλων)Compare disciples, Matthew 10:1. Apostles is the official term, used here for the first time. They were merely learners (disciples, μαθηταὶ) until Christ gave them authority. From ἀποστέλλω, to send away. An apostle is one sent forth. Compare John 13:16 and Rev., one that is sent. Cremer ("Biblico-…
barnesMatthew 10:2: "Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;"
Now the names of the twelve apostles - The account of their being called is more fully given in Mark 3:13-18 , and Luke 6:12-19 . Each of those evangelists has recorded the circumstances of their appointment. They agree in saying it was done on a mountain; and, according to Luke, it was done before the sermon on the mount…
The term "apostles" is used here for the first time, marking a shift from "disciples" to individuals officially "sent forth" with authority. This new designation, with its root meaning "one who is sent," highlights their divine commission beyond mere learning. The careful listing of names, especially placing Simon first and explicitly calling him Peter, signals not just recognition but the conferral of a new, foundational identity for the mission ahead.
Jesus is commissioning his twelve closest followers for their first official mission. He's about to send them out to preach the kingdom, heal the sick, and cast out demons, giving them specific instructions and warnings. This list of names marks the beginning of that pivotal charge, introducing the men who would carry out this immediate work and later spread the gospel throughout the world.
Jesus is commissioning his twelve closest followers for their first official mission. He's about to send them out to preach the kingdom, heal the sick, and cast out demons, giving them specific instructions and warnings. This list of names marks the beginning of that pivotal charge, introducing the men who would carry out this immediate work and later spread the gospel throughout the world.
"The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus,…" — The term "apostles" is used here for the first time, marking a shift from "disciples" to individuals officially "sent forth" with authority. This new designation, with its root meaning "one who is se…
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Last reviewed October 2026
