Luke 6:14
Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew,
Luke 6:14 (KJV)
Context
This verse belongs to the larger passage in Luke 6:12-16, where Jesus spends a night in prayer on a mountain and then chooses twelve men to be His apostles. The list begins with Simon, whom Jesus also named Peter, and then Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip, and Bartholomew. The pairing of brothers and the order of names may reflect natural relationships and the way Jesus called them.
Meaning
Simon, whom He also named Peter
Simon was a fisherman by trade. Jesus renamed him Peter, which means “rock” (the Aramaic equivalent is Cephas, as noted in John 1:42). This new name pointed to Simon’s future role and character—his steadfastness and solidity in faith. Peter became a key figure in the early church and played a significant role in spreading the Gospel.
Andrew his brother
Andrew was also a fisherman and was initially a disciple of John the Baptist. After encountering Jesus, Andrew brought his brother Simon to Jesus (John 1:40-42). Here, the two brothers are called together, being brothers both in nature and in grace.
James and John
James and John were brothers, sons of Zebedee. They were also fishermen and became known as the “sons of thunder.” Jesus had a close relationship with these two disciples, and they were present at significant moments in His ministry, such as the Transfiguration and the Garden of Gethsemane.
Philip
Philip was from Bethsaida and was one of the early followers of Jesus. He is known for bringing Nathanael to Jesus (John 1:45-49).
Bartholomew
Bartholomew is mentioned in the Gospel accounts, but not much is known about him. Some scholars identify Bartholomew with Nathanael, who was brought to Jesus by Philip (John 1:45-49).
Biblical connections
The renaming of Simon to Peter connects to John 1:42, where Jesus gives Simon this name at their first meeting. This act shows Jesus’ authority and intimate knowledge of each disciple. The calling of the twelve apostles marked the establishment of a core group who would accompany Jesus, learn from Him, and eventually be sent out to proclaim the Gospel.
Application
Jesus called a diverse group of individuals to be His disciples and later apostles. They came from different backgrounds, professions, and personalities. This diversity demonstrates that the message of Jesus is for everyone, regardless of their background or status.
Peter’s prominent mention indicates his leadership role among the disciples. Jesus saw potential in Peter and gave him a new name that reflected his future role as a solid foundation in the early church.
Each disciple had unique experiences and contributions to the ministry of Jesus. Though some disciples are mentioned more often in the Gospels, all played a vital part in spreading the message of Christ.
Overall, this verse highlights the diverse group of individuals whom Jesus chose to be His closest followers. It emphasises the importance of unity within diversity and the significance of individual callings in God’s plan.
Reflection
Jesus chose ordinary people—fishermen and others—and gave them a extraordinary mission. He knows each of us by name and calls us to follow Him, whatever our background. Just as He saw potential in Peter, He sees what we can become through His grace.
