Category Archives: Apostles

Simon the Zealot
2
Feb

Long form biography of Simon the Zealot. Simon is identified by the epithet the Zealot which may indicate prior association with a zealous movement or simply a temperament marked by fervent commitment. He appears in the lists of the Twelve though the Gospels provide little narrative detail about his actions. Later tradition links him with missionary journeys to distant lands and with accounts of steadfast witness often culminating in martyrdom. Simon exemplifies the transformation of zeal from political or personal intensity into devoted service for the gospel.

Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15

Judas Iscariot
2
Feb

Long form biography of Judas Iscariot. Judas served as the treasurer for the group and is most widely known for his betrayal of Jesus to the religious authorities for thirty pieces of silver a decision that set in motion the arrest trial and crucifixion. The Gospels and Acts record his remorse and death and the community response which led to the selection of Matthias as his replacement. Judas story raises enduring questions about free will motive and the tragic consequences of betrayal and serves as a solemn warning within the narrative of redemption.

Matthew 26:14 to 16; Matthew 27:3 to 10; John 13:2; Acts 1:15 to 26

Paul Saul of Tarsus
2
Feb

Long form biography of Paul Saul of Tarsus. Born Saul a Jew of the tribe of Benjamin and a Roman citizen Paul began as a zealous persecutor of the early church until a dramatic encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus transformed him into the apostle to the Gentiles. His life after conversion is marked by missionary journeys across Asia Minor Greece and beyond planting churches and strengthening believers. Pauls letters to communities such as Rome Corinth Galatia Ephesus Philippi Colossae and Thessalonica form a substantial portion of the New Testament and articulate theology pastoral practice and ethical instruction. He faced imprisonment hardship and opposition yet continued to preach and write with theological depth and pastoral urgency. Tradition holds that he ministered in Rome and suffered martyrdom there. Pauls legacy is theological formation missionary strategy and the expansion of the gospel to the Gentile world.

Acts 9:3 to 6; Acts 22:6 to 21; Acts 26:12 to 18; Romans;1 Corinthians; Galatians; Ephesians; Philippians; Colossians; 1 Thessalonians