Simon, surnamed the Zealot, was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus and is listed among the core companions of the early church in Acts.
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Simon, called the Zealot, was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus during His earthly ministry. The Gospels list him alongside Matthew, Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, indicating that he was personally called and commissioned by the Lord to share in the ministry of preaching and healing, just as the other disciples were. After Jesus' ascension, Simon joined the other ten apostles in returning to Jerusalem and entering the upper room, where they devoted themselves to prayer together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus. Scripture places him alongside Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Judas the son of James, showing that he shared an equal spiritual standing and fellowship within the early church community. Though Scripture itself records little about Simon's deeds, the title "Zealot" suggests a connection to a movement marked by zeal for the Jewish faith and national heritage. Early church traditions speak of him spreading the gospel in various regions, and though such accounts are not recorded in the New Testament canon, they reflect later believers' respect for this apostle's missionary calling. His life reminds readers that Jesus' call transcends every political and social background, uniting people of diverse origins under one shared mission.