In the context of the New Testament, "His Companions" refers primarily to the individuals who were closely associated with Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. These companions include the twelve apostles, other disciples, and various followers who played significant roles in the narrative of the Gospels.

The Twelve Apostles

The twelve apostles were chosen by Jesus to be His closest companions and to carry on His mission after His ascension. The Gospel of Matthew lists them as follows: "These are the names of the twelve apostles: first Simon, called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him" (Matthew 10:2-4). These men were selected from among Jesus' broader group of disciples and were given authority to preach, heal, and cast out demons (Mark 3:14-15).

Other Disciples and Followers

Beyond the twelve, Jesus had many other disciples who followed Him and supported His ministry. Among them were women who played crucial roles, such as Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, who "were helping to support them out of their own means" (Luke 8:3). These women were present at key events, including the crucifixion and the resurrection.

The Inner Circle

Within the twelve apostles, Jesus had an inner circle consisting of Peter, James, and John. These three were present at significant moments, such as the Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-3) and Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:33-34). Their presence at these pivotal events highlights their unique role and closeness to Jesus.

The Role of Companions in Jesus' Ministry

The companions of Jesus were integral to His ministry. They were witnesses to His teachings, miracles, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Jesus sent them out in pairs to preach the Gospel, instructing them, "As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near’" (Matthew 10:7). Their mission was to extend Jesus' reach and prepare the way for the establishment of the early Church.

Challenges and Failures

Despite their close association with Jesus, His companions were not without faults. Peter famously denied Jesus three times (Matthew 26:69-75), and all the disciples fled during His arrest (Mark 14:50). Judas Iscariot's betrayal is perhaps the most notable failure among the companions, leading to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion (Matthew 26:14-16).

Post-Resurrection Appearances

After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His companions, reaffirming their mission and empowering them with the Holy Spirit. In the Gospel of John, Jesus appears to the disciples and says, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you" (John 20:21). This commissioning underscores the ongoing role of His companions in spreading the Gospel.

Legacy and Impact

The legacy of Jesus' companions is evident in the Acts of the Apostles and the epistles, where they are seen establishing churches, performing miracles, and enduring persecution for the sake of the Gospel. Their writings and testimonies form a significant portion of the New Testament, providing foundational teachings for the Christian faith.