Matthew 10:4

Simon the Canaanite, and Iudas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. Matthew 10:4 (KJV)

Matthew 10 records the moment when Jesus commissions His twelve disciples and sends them out to proclaim the gospel, heal the sick, and cast out unclean spirits. In verse 1 He grants them authority over evil spirits and all kinds of diseases, preparing them for the mission that follows. Verses 2‑4 then list the names of the twelve, beginning with Simon the Canaanite and ending with Judas Iscariot.

Simon the Canaanite is the first disciple mentioned in this passage. Other Gospel accounts (Mark 3:18, Luke 6:15, Acts 1:13) refer to him as Simon the Zealot or Simon Zelotes. The KJV renders the Greek Kananaios as “Canaanite,” a transliteration that many scholars view as a textual variant of “Zealot.” The designation may reflect an association with the Jewish Zealot movement, a group that resisted Roman rule. Regardless of his possible political background, the narrative emphasizes that when Simon became a follower of Christ his focus shifted from any earthly rebellion to the kingdom of God.

Judas Iscariot is the second disciple listed. The surname “Iscariot” is commonly understood to indicate his origin in the town of Kerioth in Judea. Judas is infamous for betraying Jesus to the religious authorities, an act that precipitated the crucifixion. The betrayal, while tragic, is presented in the Gospel as a pivotal element in the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan.

Together these brief biographical notes remind readers that the twelve came from diverse backgrounds—some possibly involved in political resistance, others destined for betrayal—yet each was called into the same divine mission. Their stories illustrate how Jesus transforms individual histories into instruments for the proclamation of the kingdom, urging believers today to recognize that God can work through any background for His purposes.