Background on The Twelve Disciples

Disciples/Apostles:

Disciple means a learner or follower. Although there were many disciples, or followers of Jesus, we often refer to the
twelve whom He called to follow Him as the twelve disciples. During His ministry on earth, Jesus taught and trained these men, and after His resurrection and ascension, sent them to spread the Good News. It was at this time the name "apostles" is gives to the twelve. (Matthew 28:16-20)

The Names:

The names of the original twelve disciples (or apostles) are listed in several different passages of the Bible:
Matt. 10:2-4,
Mark 3:16-18
Luke 6:14
Acts 1:13 

Commonly, these are the names given to the original twelve disciples:

     Simon (who is called Peter)
     Andrew (Peter's brother)
     James (son of Zebedee)
     John (son of Zebedee)
     Philip
     Bartholomew (also called Nathaniel)
     Thomas
     Matthew (the tax collector)
     James (son of Alphaeus)
     Thaddaeus
     Simon (the Zealot)
     Judas Iscariot (who betrayed Jesus)

Later, Matthias became the 13th apostle replacing Judas Iscariot

The Mission:

The twelve disciples were ordinary men from different walks of life. Some were fishermen, one was a tax collector, others were activists. One had a much different idea about the Messiah. Despite their constant failing and struggles, God was able to use these disciples who remained faithful to Jesus in a mighty way.  Powered by the Holy Spirit, they changed the world.