The New Student's Reference Work/Apostles

Apostles, originally the twelve men whom Jesus chose to preach the Gospel. They were Simon Peter (called also Cephas and Bar-jona), Andrew, James the Elder (son of Zebedee), John his brother, Philip, Bartholomew (Nathaniel), Thomas (Didymus), Matthew (Levi), James the Younger (son of Alpheus), Thaddeus, Simon and Judas Iscariot. Matthias was chosen in the place of Judas, and later on Paul and Barnabas were added to the number. The apostles were first sent out by Jesus to preach to the Jews only; but a short time before his ascension they were commanded to preach to all nations. On the day of Pentecost they received miraculous gifts and began their public ministry. They have left records in the Epistles and the Acts of the Apostles.