What were the names of the twelve disciples? (Matthew 10:2-4 vs. Luke 6:13-16)

Historical Setting and the Calling of the Twelve

The designation “disciples” refers to a group of followers personally chosen by Jesus. While the Gospels mention numerous “disciples,” the term “the Twelve” specifically denotes those whom Jesus selected to represent Him in a special apostolic ministry. According to archaeological studies of Galilean sites such as Capernaum (notably extensive excavations revealing first-century foundations consistent with the timelines presented in the Gospels), their calling took place early in Christ’s public ministry. The consistent textual witness across ancient Gospel manuscripts (such as Papyrus P64 and Codex Vaticanus) underscores that these accounts of the chosen Twelve have been preserved reliably.

Names of the Twelve in Matthew 10:2–4

Matthew presents his listing immediately after Jesus instructs these closest followers to go out and preach. In the Berean Standard Bible, Matthew 10:2–4 reads:

“These are the names of the twelve apostles:

1. First Simon, who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew;

2. James son of Zebedee, and his brother John;

3. Philip and Bartholomew;

4. Thomas and Matthew the tax collector;

5. James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;

6. Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him.”

Names of the Twelve in Luke 6:13–16

Luke’s account places the formal choice of the Twelve after Jesus spends an entire night in prayer (Luke 6:12). The Berean Standard Bible records the list as follows in Luke 6:13–16:

“When daylight came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also designated as apostles:

1. Simon, whom He named Peter,

2. and his brother Andrew,

3. James and John,

4. Philip and Bartholomew,

5. Matthew and Thomas,

6. James son of Alphaeus,

7. Simon called the Zealot,

8. Judas son of James,

9. and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.”

Comparing Matthew and Luke

In examining both passages, the names appear mostly in the same order, with only slight variances in the middle of the lists. Two terms, “Thaddaeus” (in Matthew) and “Judas son of James” (in Luke), are the most notable difference. In Mark 3:18, the person is listed as “Thaddaeus,” consistent with Matthew’s account, whereas Luke identifies him as “Judas son of James.”

Though at first glance this might appear to be a contradiction, historical and linguistic studies shed light on why the same man might be referred to by different names or nicknames. Ancient Jewish practice often involved alternate names (e.g., Saul also called Paul). Early Church writings (e.g., in some references by Eusebius and surviving fragments of apostolic traditions) also acknowledge that “Thaddaeus” and “Judas son of James” refer to the same individual.

The Full Roster of the Twelve

Drawing these lists together, the twelve disciples/apostles are generally recognized as:

1. Simon Peter – Called “Peter” by Jesus. Former fisherman.

2. Andrew – Brother of Simon Peter, also a fisherman.

3. James son of Zebedee – Often called “James the Greater.” Part of Jesus’ inner circle.

4. John – Brother of James, son of Zebedee, writer of the Gospel of John and Revelation.

5. Philip – Instrumental in introducing others (like Nathanael) to Jesus.

6. Bartholomew – Widely identified with Nathanael of John’s Gospel (John 1:45–49).

7. Thomas – Known for initially doubting the resurrection (John 20:24–29), later a bold witness.

8. Matthew (Levi) – Former tax collector, author of the Gospel of Matthew.

9. James son of Alphaeus – Sometimes called “James the Younger.”

10. Thaddaeus (Judas son of James) – Referred to as “Judas (not Iscariot)” in John 14:22.

11. Simon the Zealot – Called “the Zealot” for his zealous convictions.

12. Judas Iscariot – The disciple who betrayed Jesus; replaced by Matthias after the Resurrection (Acts 1:26).

Explanation of Naming Variations

1. Thaddaeus and Judas Son of James:

• “Thaddaeus” likely derived from a term meaning “heart” or “courageous,” while “Judas” is simply the Greek form of Judah or Jude.

• Luke’s designation “Judas son of James” is further clarified by John 14:22, where the apostle is identified as “Judas (not Iscariot).”

2. Bartholomew and Nathanael:

• Bartholomew derives from “Bar-Tolmai,” meaning “son of Tolmai.”

• The Fourth Gospel only mentions Nathanael, but church tradition and scholarly research generally treat Nathanael and Bartholomew as the same individual (because Nathanael is consistently listed where Bartholomew appears in the Synoptic Gospels).

3. Simon the Zealot:

• Called “the Zealot” (Luke 6:15) or “the Canaanite” (in some translations of Matthew 10:4, referencing the Hebrew/Aramaic term qanai, meaning “zealous”).

• The label underscores an impassioned devotion, whether to a patriotic group or personal fervor for righteousness.

Manuscript Reliability and Textual Consistency

The oldest extant Gospel manuscripts (such as P66, P75, and Codex Sinaiticus) show remarkable consistency in listing these names. Scribal traditions across centuries have preserved the same essential roster, providing internal evidence that the minor naming variations come from legitimate alternate names or descriptors, rather than any error in the text. Scholars who have evaluated these manuscripts (including numerous papyri and early codices) routinely cite the high level of uniformity between them.

Archaeological and Historical Corroboration

• Excavations in areas around Galilee and Judea attest to first-century settings (e.g., fishing trade evidence in Bethsaida and Capernaum) consistent with the backgrounds of some disciples like Peter, Andrew, James, and John.

• Extra-biblical mentions (including Josephus and early non-canonical Christian writings) corroborate the growth and ministry of the post-resurrection Christian community that these apostles led, supporting the historicity of their roles.

Why Two Different Lists for the Same Twelve?

Matthew, Mark, and Luke each detail the same group with only minor variations, largely due to brevity, audience focus, or the use of Aramaic, Hebrew, or Greek second names. Such naming differences were common in a culture where individuals often had multiple designations (personal name, family name, and a descriptor or nickname). This is not only typical for the era but also resonates with other historical sources documenting people of the time.

Significance of the Twelve Disciples

The Twelve played a foundational role in spreading the message of Jesus and establishing the early believing community. Their cultural backgrounds—fishermen, tax collector, zealot, etc.—illustrate the diverse tapestry of first-century society that was united under Jesus’ teaching. Their willingness to follow Jesus unto persecution, and in most cases martyrdom, underscores their conviction that He was indeed risen from the dead.

Summary

Matthew 10:2–4 and Luke 6:13–16 provide two parallel lists of the same core group of twelve disciples. The only major naming divergence—Thaddaeus vs. Judas son of James—reflects different designations for the same individual, something well-documented in first-century contexts. Alongside Mark’s Gospel and corroborative historical writings, these names remain a consistent thread throughout all branches of Gospel tradition. Supported by archaeological evidence, manuscript data, and historical records, the identity of these twelve men stands firmly attested. Their legacy remains central to understanding the formation and spread of early Christian belief.