Matthew 10:2 kjv

Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;

Matthew 10:2 nkjv

Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;

Matthew 10:2 niv

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;

Matthew 10:2 esv

The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;

Matthew 10:2 nlt

Here are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (also called Peter),
then Andrew (Peter's brother),
James (son of Zebedee),
John (James's brother),

Matthew 10 verses

Matthew 10 2 Meaning

Matthew 10:2 begins the specific identification of the "twelve apostles," establishing the core group chosen and commissioned by Jesus for a unique mission. It marks them by their given names, focusing on their identity as individuals specially selected for service in God's kingdom.

Matthew 10 2 Context

Matthew chapter 10 is fundamentally about the commissioning and instruction of the "twelve apostles." Verse 2 directly follows Jesus gathering them (v. 1) and receiving authority. The subsequent verses detail their mission—specifically to the "lost sheep of Israel"—and the powers granted to them (healing, casting out demons). This initial list establishes the official messengers for the Kingdom, setting the stage for their immediate evangelistic task and later, for the ongoing foundation of the Church. Historically, this aligns with the Jewish practice of a teacher gathering a specific circle of disciples, but Jesus's choice of "twelve" intentionally echoes the twelve tribes of Israel, signaling a reconstitution or re-gathering of God's people under a new covenant.

Matthew 10 2 Word analysis

• Now: Signals a transition from the general calling of disciples to the specific identification of a foundational group.

• the names: Refers not just to identification, but to authority, character, and divinely ordained purpose. In ancient cultures, a name often reflected one's essence or destiny.

• of the twelve: The number twelve (δώδεκα, dodeka) holds immense significance, representing the twelve tribes of Israel (Gen 49; Ex 24:4). This signifies Jesus's intent to gather and establish the new people of God, the spiritual Israel, mirroring and fulfilling the old covenant structure.

• apostles: From the Greek apostolos (ἀπόστολος), meaning "one who is sent forth" or "a messenger," emphasizing an authoritative commission. Unlike general disciples, these are specially appointed emissaries with a specific mission and delegated authority. This sets them apart as those foundational to the Kingdom's establishment.

• are these: A declarative statement, immediately presenting the official list.

• first: Protos (πρῶτος), meaning "first in order or in importance." This denotes Simon Peter's undisputed leadership and prominence among the twelve, a position consistently reflected across all lists in the Gospels and Acts.

• Simon: His original name, which Jesus would transform.

• who is called Peter: Petros (Πέτρος), Greek for "rock" or "stone," Jesus's renaming of Simon (Aram. Cephas). This signifies his foundational role in the building of the church (Mt 16:18) and the steadfastness he would later exhibit.

• and Andrew his brother: Indicates a familial relationship and shared initial calling. Their proximity in this list highlights a common background.

• James the son of Zebedee: Identifies him by his father, a common way of distinction in Jewish society. He is consistently listed with John.

• and John his brother: Further highlights the familial relationship of this influential pair, also known as the "sons of thunder" (Mk 3:17). James and John, with Peter, form the inner circle of Jesus's disciples, privileged witnesses to key events (e.g., Transfiguration).

• the twelve apostles: This specific phrase emphasizes their collective identity as a divinely chosen, authoritative, and unified group, distinct from other followers of Jesus. They are the appointed pillars of the nascent community.

• first, Simon, who is called Peter: This entire phrase highlights Peter's unique position, not just chronologically first, but preeminent in leadership and significance. His new name signifies a transformed nature and a crucial role in Christ's plans for the church.

• and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother: Grouping by familial pairs not only reflects their prior relationships but also possibly their joint recruitment or shared initial ministries, as seen in the earlier calls by Jesus. These pairs form crucial components of the foundational twelve.

Matthew 10 2 Bonus section

• The precise order of apostles varies slightly in the Gospel lists, but Simon Peter always appears first, and Judas Iscariot always appears last, signaling his role as the betrayer.
• The selection of fishermen (Simon, Andrew, James, John) illustrates Jesus's method of choosing ordinary individuals whom He would equip and empower for extraordinary purposes, demonstrating God's ability to work through humble beginnings.
• The formation of this group of twelve was preceded by a night of prayer by Jesus (Lk 6:12), highlighting the divine wisdom and intentionality behind His choices.
• This verse marks the beginning of the apostolic succession in a broader sense, where divinely chosen leaders are empowered to carry forward the mandate of the Messiah.

Matthew 10 2 Commentary

Matthew 10:2 does more than just list names; it serves as a foundational declaration of apostolic authority within Christ's emerging Kingdom. The selection of "twelve" underscores God's continuity with His covenant people, Israel, yet points to a new divine administration through the Messiah. These apostolos, or "sent ones," are distinguished by their specific divine appointment and delegated power. The immediate listing, led by "first, Simon, who is called Peter," signifies an intentional hierarchy or recognized preeminence from the outset of their mission. This established group is the initial bedrock of Christ's visible Church, empowered to extend His ministry, teach His truth, and perform signs. The verse lays the groundwork for understanding the structure and mission of the early church and the enduring role of true apostolic leadership in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.