Did you know that God has ordained you as a minister in His church? Yes, you are a minister of Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:18, states that “all this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” – meaning that as believers in Christ, we are called to be instruments of bringing people back to God and fostering peace between individuals.
I want you to recognize how God sees you, you are precious to him.
Now I know sometimes we feel ordinary or unqualified, you’re in good company. Jesus didn’t choose scholars or influencers to spread His message—He chose 12 regular men. He chose individuals,.. just like you. These men, the apostles, transformed from everyday workers to pioneers of a movement that reached the farthest corners of the known world. But their journey wasn’t easy. Many of them faced brutal persecution, even martyrdom, for standing by their faith. Today, we’ll explore what happened to these 12 apostles of Jesus and why their stories still resonate with us.
This article will take you through the lives of each of the apostles, showing how they spread the Gospel and stood for Christ even in the face of death. As we journey through the lives of Peter, Paul, and the others, we’ll uncover why their stories continue to inspire countless Christians to live courageously. By the end, you’ll see how these apostles’ examples can fuel your faith, showing that God can use anyone—no matter how ordinary—to change the world. I want you to know that God can use you to have an impact on the world so do not undervalue yourself.
1. Peter: The Rock and Bold Leader
Peter, once a humble fisherman, became the foundation of the early church. Known for his impulsive nature, he sometimes stumbled but never failed to get back up. After the resurrection, he preached with such passion that thousands came to faith. His journey ended in Rome, where he was crucified upside-down, not considering himself worthy to die in the same manner as Jesus. Peter’s story reminds us that it’s not about where we start but how God uses us as we follow Him wholeheartedly.
2. Paul: From Persecutor to Apostle of Grace
Though not one of the original twelve, Paul’s impact on Christianity was immense. Formerly a Pharisee and persecutor of Christians, he had a life-changing encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. He became an unstoppable force, planting churches and writing letters that form much of the New Testament. His missionary journeys covered vast regions, but his dedication led to a martyr’s death by beheading in Rome. Paul’s transformation inspires hope that anyone can be redeemed and used for God’s glory.
3. Andrew: The First Disciple
Andrew’s first instinct after meeting Jesus was to bring his brother Peter to Him. Known for his humility, he often worked in the background, yet his impact was far-reaching. Tradition holds that he preached in regions from Greece to Asia Minor. Eventually, he was crucified on an X-shaped cross in Greece. Andrew’s life shows us that even quiet acts of faith can leave a lasting legacy.
4. Thomas: Faith Born Through Doubt
“Doubting Thomas” is a name often associated with skepticism, but his story is one of overcoming doubt. When Thomas finally saw the risen Christ, he declared, “My Lord and my God!” He then took the Gospel eastward, even reaching India, where he is still honored today. Thomas’s story reminds us that questioning and seeking can deepen our faith, making it even stronger.
5. Philip: The Inquisitive Evangelist
Philip was among the first to respond to Jesus’ call, and he wasted no time sharing the news. Known for bringing people to Jesus, he introduced Nathanael, saying, “Come and see.” Tradition holds that Philip preached in Asia Minor and faced martyrdom for his faith. His life encourages us to reach out to others, bringing them closer to Jesus.
6. Matthew: The Tax Collector Turned Apostle
As a former tax collector, Matthew was initially despised, but Jesus saw his potential. After joining Jesus, Matthew wrote the Gospel that bears his name. Tradition holds that he preached in Ethiopia and other regions. His story shows that no past is too dark for God to redeem, proving that anyone can serve Him fully.
7. Bartholomew (Nathanael): The Skeptical Believer
When Philip introduced Bartholomew to Jesus, he famously remarked, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” But upon meeting Jesus, his doubts faded. He preached in regions as far as India and Armenia, facing martyrdom in Armenia. His story inspires us to push past skepticism and find truth in Jesus.
8. James the Lesser: The Quiet Devotion
James, son of Alphaeus, is often referred to as “the Lesser,” not due to his importance but perhaps his age or stature. He is believed to have worked in Jerusalem, where he faced persecution. While not as well-known, his dedication reminds us that faithfulness matters even when no one is watching.
9. Simon the Zealot: The Passionate Disciple
Simon was part of the Zealot movement, a group fervently opposed to Roman rule. But after meeting Jesus, his zeal turned toward spreading the Gospel. Tradition holds that he preached in Egypt and faced martyrdom in Persia. Simon’s story shows us that passion directed by Christ can have a powerful impact.
10. Jude (Thaddaeus): The Forgotten Apostle
Jude, sometimes called Thaddaeus, is one of the lesser-known apostles. He’s known for his letter in the New Testament, urging believers to “contend for the faith.” Tradition suggests he preached in Persia, where he faced martyrdom. Jude’s life reminds us that faithfulness is never overlooked in God’s eyes.
11. James, Son of Zebedee: The First Martyr
James, brother of John, was part of Jesus’ inner circle. Known for his fiery nature, he was a leader among the apostles. He was the first apostle martyred, killed by Herod’s order in 44 AD. His story encourages us to hold fast to our faith, even in the face of threats.
12. John: The Beloved Disciple
John, author of the Gospel, Three Epistles, and Revelation, was known for his close relationship with Jesus. He lived to old age, exiled to the island of Patmos, where he received the visions recorded in Revelation. John’s life shows us that love for Jesus brings peace, hope, and endurance.
Conclusion
Each of these apostles left a legacy of faith, courage, and devotion, showing us that God can use anyone willing to follow Him. Their lives, filled with hardship yet overflowing with purpose, remind us that our journey with Christ may not be easy, but it is always meaningful.
So, next time you feel unqualified or ordinary, remember these apostles—ordinary people who changed the world through their extraordinary faith. Their stories are not just history; they’re invitations to live with the same courage and dedication in our walk with Christ. What is the legacy you want to leave as a minister of Christ? I know God wants to use you for his glory.