List of the 12 Apostles in the New Testament

The list of the 12 disciples can be found in Matthew 10:2-4, where it is written, "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; Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him." This passage provides the names of the 12 men chosen by Jesus to be his closest followers and to carry on his ministry after his death and resurrection.

The selection of the 12 disciples is significant because it shows Jesus' intention to establish a new community of followers who would be empowered to spread his teachings and continue his work. The fact that Jesus chose ordinary men from various backgrounds to be his disciples emphasizes the idea that God's kingdom is open to all people, regardless of their social status or occupation.

Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good to them that love God," and the selection of the 12 disciples is a prime example of this principle, as Jesus took a group of imperfect and flawed individuals and used them to accomplish great things for the kingdom of God. The story of the disciples serves as a reminder that God's power is not limited by human weakness, but can actually be magnified through it.

This truth addresses the heart of every believer, reminding them that they too can be used by God to accomplish great things, despite their own flaws and limitations. It is a testament to the power of God's grace and the importance of faith and obedience in the life of a believer.