Apostles and Disciples: Who's Who in the Bible?
The terms "apostles" and "disciples" are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings in the Bible.
Disciples
Who were they?
- Followers of Jesus who believed in his teachings
- Not necessarily chosen by Jesus himself
- Could be anyone who accepted his message
Role:
- Learned from Jesus and spread his message
- Witnessed his miracles and teachings
Apostles
Who were they?
- Specifically chosen by Jesus to be his closest followers
- 12 in total, including Peter, John, and Judas Iscariot
Role:
- Played a special role in Jesus' ministry
- Commissioned to preach, teach, and heal
- Witnessed Jesus' resurrection and ascension
Key Differences
| Feature | Disciples | Apostles |
|---|---|---|
| Chosen by Jesus | No | Yes |
| Number | Could be any number | 12 |
| Role | General followers | Close companions, commissioned to spread the message |
Importance of Apostles and Disciples
Both apostles and disciples played a crucial role in the establishment of Christianity.
- Apostles: Laid the foundation of the early church, spreading Jesus' teachings and performing miracles.
- Disciples: Bore witness to Jesus' life and teachings, helping to shape the Bible and the Christian faith.
Examples from the Bible
- The parable of the sower (Matthew 13) mentions both disciples and apostles as recipients of Jesus' teachings.
- In Luke 9, Jesus sends out his 12 apostles to preach and heal.
- After Jesus' resurrection, the apostles are commissioned to spread the gospel to all nations (Matthew 28).
While the terms "apostles" and "disciples" are often used interchangeably, their distinct roles and importance in the Bible should be recognized. Both groups played a vital part in the establishment and spread of the Christian faith.
Frequently Asked Questions about Apostles and Disciples
What is the difference between an apostle and a disciple?
An apostle is a person who has been chosen and sent by Jesus Christ to preach the gospel and establish churches. A disciple is a person who has been taught by Jesus Christ and follows his teachings.
How many apostles were there?
There were twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ: Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot.
Who was the first apostle called by Jesus?
Peter was the first apostle called by Jesus.
Who was the apostle who betrayed Jesus?
Judas Iscariot was the apostle who betrayed Jesus.
What was the mission of the apostles?
The mission of the apostles was to preach the gospel, baptize believers, and establish churches.
