Bible Verses About Listing The 12 Disciples Of Jesus Christ. The twelve men that Jesus personally selected to follow Him, learn from Him, and eventually carry His mission to the ends of the world are intimately linked to the narrative of His earthly ministry. These disciples, who would subsequently be referred to as apostles, were not chosen because they were influential leaders, highly regarded academics, or members of the religious elite. Rather,
Jesus summoned common men from commonplace backgrounds, such as tax collectors, fishermen, and those with lowly jobs. One of the most powerful examples of God’s grace and purpose is their metamorphosis from humble people into fearless gospel witnesses.
The twelve disciples are mentioned by name in several Bible passages, underscoring their significance as the cornerstone of the Christian religion. Their names are mostly found in the Gospels and the Book of Acts, where they play more significant roles following Jesus’ resurrection and ascension.
Their order may change slightly each time they are listed, but they all share the purpose that Christ gave them: to proclaim the gospel, cure the sick, drive out devils, and baptize new believers in the names of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
In addition to introducing us to the people who had a close relationship with Jesus, these words from the Bible serve as a reminder that God frequently chooses the unlikely to accomplish extraordinary goals. We are encouraged to consider the twelve disciples’ calling, development, and legacy for all modern followers of Christ as we examine the scriptures that identify them. Their story encourages believers to follow their own calling with confidence, bravery, and obedience, believing that God can use anybody with a willing heart to accomplish great things.
40 Inspiring Bible Verses About Listing The 12 Disciples Of Jesus Christ (2025)
1. Matthew 10:2-4
“These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is 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.”
Here, Matthew provides a complete listing of the twelve apostles Jesus personally chose to follow Him and spread the gospel. Each name carries a unique background and calling, illustrating that Jesus appoints people from all walks of life. Even Judas Iscariot, who later betrayed Christ, is included—showing that God’s mission can work through both obedience and human weakness. This list symbolizes the foundation of the early church and the diversity within the body of Christ.
2. Mark 3:16-19
“These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means ‘sons of thunder’), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.”
Mark’s account highlights both the divine selection and Jesus’ personal connection to His disciples. Not only does He appoint them, He also renames some, demonstrating His authority to reshape identity and purpose. This list reinforces the calling, empowerment, and transformation that come from following Christ.
3. Luke 6:13-16
“When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles…”
Luke emphasizes the intentional selection process Jesus undertook after spending the night in prayer. By choosing twelve, Jesus mirrors the twelve tribes of Israel—signifying spiritual restoration and new covenant leadership. The list also reminds believers that God’s call is rooted in divine wisdom, not human qualification.
4. Acts 1:13
“…Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James.”
After the ascension of Jesus, the apostles gathered in unity, listing those still present in service. This moment marks the transition from Jesus’ earthly leadership to Spirit-empowered apostolic mission. It represents endurance, perseverance, and commitment to what Jesus began.
5. Acts 1:26
“Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.”
Matthias is chosen to replace Judas Iscariot, signifying restoration and the continuation of the mission entrusted to the Twelve. This moment teaches reliance on God’s sovereign decision-making and the importance of maintaining spiritual leadership within the church.
6. Matthew 4:18-20
“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew… ‘Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’ At once they left their nets and followed him.”
This verse highlights the divine calling of Peter and Andrew. Their willingness to immediately drop their livelihoods shows the power and authority in Jesus’ call. The phrase “fish for people” symbolizes the transformation of their purpose—from catching fish for survival to winning souls for the Kingdom. Their obedience sets the pattern for discipleship: to follow Christ without hesitation.
7. Matthew 4:21-22
“Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John… Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.”
James and John demonstrate that following Jesus sometimes requires leaving behind comfort, family, and security. Their prompt response reveals the compelling nature of Christ’s mission. Known later as the “sons of thunder,” their passion, zeal, and closeness to Jesus prove that God uses strong-willed individuals for His glory.
8. John 1:43-45
“The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ Philip found Nathanael and told him, ‘We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law… Jesus of Nazareth.’”
Philip’s calling highlights the relational spread of the gospel: Jesus calls one, and that one invites another. Philip immediately becomes a witness, showing that every disciple is also an evangelist. His excitement reflects the joy of discovering the long-awaited Messiah.
9. John 1:46-49
“…Then Nathanael declared, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.’”
Nathanael (also known as Bartholomew) initially doubts Jesus’ hometown, but a personal encounter transforms his skepticism into bold confession. This teaches us that Jesus meets us in our doubts and reveals His truth in ways that build unshakable faith. Each disciple’s journey begins uniquely but leads to the same revelation of Christ’s lordship.
10. John 20:24-29
“Now Thomas… was not with the disciples when Jesus came… Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’”
Thomas, often called “Doubting Thomas,” displays honest questioning—not lack of devotion. Jesus doesn’t reject his need for evidence; instead, He provides it graciously. Thomas’ ultimate declaration, “My Lord and my God,” becomes one of the strongest affirmations of Christ’s deity. This verse reminds believers that faith grows through encounter and revelation.
16. Matthew 16:15-18
“‘But what about you?’ he asked. ‘Who do you say I am?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ … And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church…”
Peter boldly declares Jesus’ true identity, revealing the foundation of discipleship—knowing Christ personally. In response, Jesus affirms Peter’s divine revelation and establishes him as a foundational leader in the early church. This passage illustrates both Peter’s spiritual sensitivity and the authority Christ entrusts to His chosen apostles.
17. John 21:15-17
“Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Do you love me?’… ‘Feed my sheep.’”
After Peter’s denial, Jesus restores him through a threefold question that parallels his three denials. This moment reveals the heart of apostolic ministry: love for Christ expressed through serving and nurturing His people. Grace redeems failure and transforms it into compassionate leadership.
18. Luke 22:31-32
“But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”
Even before Peter’s denial, Jesus intercedes for his restoration and future mission. This highlights the divine support behind every disciple’s journey. Jesus doesn’t discard Peter for his weakness; instead, He prepares him to be a source of strength for others walking through failure and redemption.
19. Acts 4:13
“When they saw the courage of Peter and John… they were astonished and took note that these men had been with Jesus.”
Peter and John’s boldness before religious leaders demonstrates the transforming effect of being with Christ. Though considered “uneducated,” their faith, authority, and courage testify to the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Discipleship is not defined by human credentials but by divine presence.
20. Matthew 26:36-38
“Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane… ‘Stay here and keep watch with me.’”
In Jesus’ darkest hour, He brings His closest disciples—Peter, James, and John—into intimate spiritual struggle. Their presence signifies that discipleship includes sharing in Jesus’ suffering, not only His glory. The garden scene reveals the emotional weight of Christ’s mission and the call for His followers to remain spiritually alert.
21. Mark 9:2-4
“After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain… There he was transfigured before them.”
Peter, James, and John witness Jesus’ divine glory in a moment that affirms His heavenly identity. The Transfiguration reveals Christ’s authority above Moses and Elijah, placing the apostles in a sacred encounter to strengthen their faith for future trials. It teaches that discipleship includes glimpses of God’s majesty that fuel perseverance.
22. Acts 12:1-2
“King Herod… had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.”
James becomes the first apostle to be martyred, showing the ultimate price of loyalty to Christ. His bold faith and sacrifice remind believers that following Jesus is costly, yet eternally rewarding. His death marks the beginning of intense persecution against church leaders.
23. Acts 3:1-6
“…Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’”
Peter and John’s miraculous healing of the lame man highlights the continued ministry of Jesus through His disciples. The apostles’ power is not rooted in wealth or status but in the authority of Christ. It demonstrates that apostolic calling comes with supernatural empowerment for God’s glory.
24. John 14:5-6
“Thomas said to him, ‘Lord, we don’t know where you are going…’ Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life.’”
Thomas openly expresses uncertainty, showing that honest questions are welcome in discipleship. Jesus uses the moment to reveal one of the most foundational truths of the gospel: salvation is found in Him alone. Thomas’ inquiry leads to a profound revelation for all believers.
25. John 1:40-42
“Andrew… was one of the two who heard what John had said… and he brought him to Jesus.”
Andrew is known not for the crowds he preached to, but for bringing individuals to Christ—beginning with his own brother, Peter. His quiet but powerful witness teaches that discipleship often spreads through personal relationships. The gospel advances one transformed life at a time.
26. Matthew 10:3
“…Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus…”
This listing stresses that even lesser-known apostles were essential to Jesus’ ministry. Scripture honors each name, proving that significance in God’s Kingdom is not measured by fame but by faithfulness. Every disciple plays a vital role in the mission of Christ.
27. John 14:8-9
“Philip said, ‘Lord, show us the Father…’ Jesus answered: ‘Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.’”
Philip seeks clarity, leading Jesus to proclaim His oneness with the Father—revealing a deep mystery of the Trinity. The apostles’ relationship with Jesus is the clearest revelation of God humanity will ever receive. Discipleship leads to a growing understanding of divine truth.
28. John 14:22
“Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, ‘But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?’”
Thaddaeus (also known as Judas son of James) expresses concern for the reach of Jesus’ mission. His question brings clarity to the distinction between worldly recognition and spiritual revelation. Christ reveals that those who love Him will receive deeper knowledge of His presence.
29. Matthew 27:3-5
“When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse…”
Judas Iscariot’s tragic remorse reminds us that proximity to Jesus is not the same as devotion to Him. His failure reveals the danger of divided loyalty and the catastrophic result of rejecting God’s mercy. Yet his story also highlights the weight of sin and the need for true repentance.
30. Luke 6:15
“…Simon who was called the Zealot.”
Simon the Zealot’s identity reflects a political and revolutionary background, yet Jesus unites him with disciples of vastly different perspectives. The gospel dissolves divisions, forming a unified mission from diverse people. His transformation shows that zeal must be redirected to God’s purposes.
31. Matthew 20:20-23
“Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons… ‘Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.’”
James and John, through their mother, request positions of honor. Jesus responds by pointing them to the cost of discipleship, not the rewards. This passage teaches humility and reveals that greatness in God’s Kingdom is achieved through suffering and servanthood—not status or ambition.
32. John 13:6-9
“‘No,’ said Peter, ‘you shall never wash my feet.’ Jesus answered, ‘Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.’”
Peter initially rejects Christ’s act of humble service, revealing his struggle to understand the nature of Jesus’ mission. When corrected, he wholeheartedly submits. This moment shows that disciples must be willing to receive grace from Jesus before they can serve others in His name.
33. John 13:21-26
“…Jesus said, ‘Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me.’… Then dipping the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas…”
Jesus reveals the presence of betrayal within the circle of His closest followers. Even as Judas prepares to abandon Him, Jesus offers him bread—an act of love and warning. The passage shows that discipleship requires genuine allegiance, not mere association.
34. Luke 24:33-36
“There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together… While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’”
After His resurrection, Jesus appears to the gathered apostles, confirming His victory over death. The unity and anticipation of the disciples set the stage for the coming power of the Holy Spirit, proving that their mission was only beginning.
35. Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses… to the ends of the earth.”
Jesus commissions the apostles with a global mandate. Their witness is empowered not by human strength but by the Holy Spirit. This verse stands as the backbone of the apostles’ mission and the birthing of the global church.
36. Acts 2:14
“Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd…”
Peter steps boldly into leadership, empowered by the Spirit, preaching the first evangelistic sermon of the church age. Thousands are saved — demonstrating the authority and effectiveness given to the apostles for advancing the gospel.
37. Acts 5:12
“The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people…”
Miracles throughout Jerusalem confirm the apostles’ divine calling. Their works reflect Jesus’ own ministry, showing the continued presence of Christ on earth through His chosen messengers.
38. Acts 9:26-27
“When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples… But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles.”
Paul’s introduction to the Twelve marks a pivotal moment in church history. The apostles discern and eventually affirm his calling, demonstrating their authority in maintaining doctrinal unity and leadership as the early church expands.
39. Acts 15:2
“…Paul and Barnabas were appointed, along with some other believers, to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders…”
The apostles serve as foundational decision-makers, resolving disputes and maintaining the purity of the gospel message. Their leadership structures the church for global growth and theological clarity.
40. Revelation 21:14
“The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.”
In the New Jerusalem, the apostles are eternally honored as pillars of God’s Kingdom. Their names engraved into the city’s foundations signify the lasting impact of their obedience to Christ’s calling. The mission they embraced continues to shape the church until the end of time.
Conclusion
The twelve disciples were chosen messengers who spread the good news of salvation throughout the world, in addition to being firsthand witnesses to Jesus’ ministry, miracles, death, and resurrection. Each of them had a distinct role in God’s divine design, as the Bible verses that list their names serve as a reminder. Their transition from common men into fearless apostles demonstrates the strength of fully devoting oneself to Jesus even in the face of difficult missions or unclear futures.
We are inspired to acknowledge that God still asks people to be His disciples today—regular people with willing hearts—as we consider these scriptures. Their experiences encourage us to live out our faith with obedience, to embrace our own destiny in Christ, and to courageously share the gospel. Every Christian can have a significant impact on God’s kingdom by faithfully adhering to His calling, just as the twelve disciples left a lasting legacy.
