The Chosen Twelve

Jesus had a teaching ministry while He was on the Earth.
Twelve ordinary men He chose to follow Him and learn.

Andrew was a fisherman and Simon Peter’s brother.
He served as missionary in his homeland and in others.

Of Bartholomew, we really know not much, but Scriptures say
He was usually with Philip; Nathanael was his other name.

James the Elder was the brother of one called beloved John;
Part of the Inner Circle and, by trade, a fisherman.

James the Younger, son of Alphaeus: Mary was his mother’s name.
We do not know much about him, but he served God all the same.

John ate honey and wild locusts; in his spirit, strong he grew.
He prepared the way for Jesus and wrote Revelation, too.

Judas, who was treasurer, one night our Lord betrayed,
And then he hanged himself due to wrong choices he had made.

Simon (called the Zealot) and Jude learned truth they’d later preach.
And when Jesus did see Philip, He said, “Come and follow me.”

Simon Peter’s name means “rock” — he was the spokesman for the twelve;
He was also known as Cephas; they crucified him upside down.

Tax collecting was what Matthew did, despised for his work deeds,
Until Jesus came and called him out of his lifestyle of greed.

“Doubting” Thomas had to see the nail prints in his Lord’s own hands,
But Thomas gained a greater faith, which Jesus knew far in advance.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 10:2-5

Did You Know?

All of these men (except Judas Iscariot) were martyrs: They gave their lives for Jesus because they would not deny Him.