Simon whom he also named Peter and Andrew his brother James and John Philip and Bartholomew. List of twelve begins. Simon Simōn Jewish name. Named Peter Petros rock. Andrew Andreas Peter brother. James Iakōbos son of Zebedee. John Iōannēs James brother beloved disciple. Philip Philippos. Bartholomew Bartholomaios likely Nathanael. Jesus renamed Simon Peter prophetic rock solid foundation. Twelve named specifically. Personalities backgrounds varied. Peter leader spokesman. John beloved disciple. James first martyr. Ordinary men extraordinary calling. Reformed theology emphasizes God uses weak things confound mighty. Apostles not qualified by education pedigree but by divine calling.
Historical Context
Twelve apostles diverse backgrounds. Peter Andrew James John fishermen. Matthew tax collector. Simon Zealot revolutionary. Judas Iscariot betrayer. Most Galileans blue collar workers. Not educated elite but ordinary. This pattern continues Acts uneducated unlearned men amazed authorities (4:13). God chooses weak foolish base things (1 Cor 1:27-29). Paul educated but emphasized weakness boasted in weakness. Early church leadership from all classes. Medieval church educated elite. Reformation priesthood all believers lay people valued. Modern church debates credentialism versus gifting. Biblical pattern God equips whom He calls.
Questions for Reflection
What does diverse backgrounds of apostles teach about who God calls to ministry?
How does Jesus choosing ordinary uneducated men challenge modern credentialism in ministry?
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Analysis & Commentary
Simon whom he also named Peter and Andrew his brother James and John Philip and Bartholomew. List of twelve begins. Simon Simōn Jewish name. Named Peter Petros rock. Andrew Andreas Peter brother. James Iakōbos son of Zebedee. John Iōannēs James brother beloved disciple. Philip Philippos. Bartholomew Bartholomaios likely Nathanael. Jesus renamed Simon Peter prophetic rock solid foundation. Twelve named specifically. Personalities backgrounds varied. Peter leader spokesman. John beloved disciple. James first martyr. Ordinary men extraordinary calling. Reformed theology emphasizes God uses weak things confound mighty. Apostles not qualified by education pedigree but by divine calling.