Matthew 10:3

Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alpheus, and Lebbeus, whose surname was Thaddeus;

Matthew 10:3 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 10:3 belongs to the larger account of Jesus commissioning the twelve apostles. In this chapter He selects and sends them out to proclaim the gospel and perform miracles, and this verse records the names of six of those He chose.

Meaning

Philip is named first. He was one of the earliest disciples called by Jesus (John 1:43-45) and is known for bringing Nathanael, also called Bartholomew, to Christ (John 1:46-51). Later he asks Jesus to show the disciples the Father, prompting Jesus’ reply about His unity with the Father (John 14:8-9).

Bartholomew, traditionally identified with Nathanael, is frequently listed alongside Philip. His encounter with Jesus is recorded in John 1:45-51, where Jesus recognizes him as an Israelite without guile. Apart from this, Scripture provides little additional detail about his ministry.

Thomas, famously called “Doubting Thomas,” initially struggled to believe the resurrection. His story culminates in the declaration, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:24-29), illustrating the need for tangible evidence before faith can be fully embraced, yet he ultimately becomes a faithful disciple.

Matthew the publican, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before following Jesus. He is the author of the Gospel of Matthew. When Jesus called him (Matthew 9:9-13), Matthew left his lucrative but despised occupation to follow Christ, demonstrating that Jesus calls even those rejected by society to a higher purpose.

James the son of Alphaeus, sometimes called James the Less to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee (Mark 15:40), is listed among the twelve. The Scriptures offer only limited information about his personal ministry.

Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus, is the final disciple named in this verse. He is also referred to as Judas, but not to be confused with Judas Iscariot. Some traditions identify him with the Judas who was the brother of James (Luke 6:16; Acts 1:13). The name Lebbaeus means “heart” or “courageous,” while Thaddaeus conveys “breast” or “courageous heart.”

Application

The diverse backgrounds of these apostles—including a tax collector and men of varying temperaments—show that Jesus calls ordinary people from all walks of life to be His witnesses. Their varied histories remind us that God can use anyone who responds to His call, regardless of past occupation or reputation.