Apostles
Summary
The twelve disciples chosen by Jesus to be His special representatives, commissioned to preach the gospel and establish His church.
☩The Twelve
Jesus chose twelve men to be His apostles after spending a night in prayer. They were: Simon Peter, Andrew, James and John (sons of Zebedee), Philip, Bartholomew (Nathanael), Matthew (Levi), Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus (Judas son of James), Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot. After Judas's betrayal and death, Matthias was chosen to replace him.
☩Commission and Authority
Jesus gave the apostles special authority to preach, heal, and cast out demons. After His resurrection, He commissioned them to make disciples of all nations. They received power when the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost and became bold witnesses throughout the world. Their teaching and testimony form the foundation of Christian doctrine.
