New Testament: Gospels

Barnabas, originally named Joseph, was a Levite born in Cyprus whom the apostles surnamed "Son of Exhortation." He became a vital bridge figure in the early church, introducing Saul (Paul) to the apostles and establishing the Gentile mission at Antioch.

New Testament: Gospels

James, son of Zebedee, was a fisherman called by Jesus at the Sea of Galilee and one of the inner circle of disciples; he was later killed by King Herod, becoming the first apostolic martyr honored by the early church.

New Testament: Gospels

James the son of Alphaeus is one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, regularly distinguished in the apostolic lists from the other James (son of Zebedee).

New Testament: Gospels

James, the brother of the Lord, was a leading figure in the early Jerusalem church, exercising decisive authority at the apostolic council and recognized as one of the church's pillars.

New Testament: Gospels

Matthias was the disciple chosen to replace Judas among the Twelve Apostles after Judas's death, bearing witness to the resurrection of Jesus and joining the foundation of the early church.

Early Church and Epistles

Apostle to the Gentiles — from persecutor of the church to its greatest missionary and letter-writer.