Simon the Zealot, one of the Twelve Apostles, is noted for his background as a possible member of the Jewish political movement opposing Roman rule, indicating a fervent zeal that he redirected towards spreading Jesus’ teachings after the Resurrection, embarking on missionary journeys to Egypt and Persia and ultimately being martyred, a testament to his deep commitment to the Christian faith and his diverse background enriching the early Christian community.
Thaddaeus, also known as Judas son of James, is a less prominent but significant apostle in the New Testament, distinguished from Judas Iscariot and known for his questioning of Jesus about His revelations, extensive missionary journeys across regions including Judea, Samaria, and Syria.
James the Less, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ and traditionally identified as the son of Alphaeus, is known for his humility and lesser prominence compared to James the Greater, likely referred to as “the Less” due to his younger age or smaller stature.
John the Apostle, also known as John the Evangelist, is one of the most influential figures in the Christian New Testament, recognized for his profound contributions through several writings including the Gospel of John, three Epistles, and the Book of Revelation; he was one of the key figures among Jesus’ disciples, part of the inner circle, and privileged to witness significant events such as the Transfiguration and the Agony in Gethsemane. Traditionally attributed with deep theological insights, his works emphasize themes like divine love and truth, and his life, marked by close proximity to Jesus, exile on Patmos, and a natural death in Ephesus, reflects a blend of theological depth, apostolic authority, and visionary insight, deeply influencing Christian thought and doctrine across denominations.
In Acts 12:6-10, the miraculous release of Peter from prison, facilitated by an angel of the Lord and amidst the fervent prayers of the early Christian community, vividly demonstrates God’s sovereign power to intervene and deliver His faithful servants from the clutches of earthly persecution.