The term "The Ten Disciples" typically refers to the group of Jesus Christ's followers, excluding Judas Iscariot and Thomas, who were part of the original Twelve Apostles. This group played a significant role in the early Christian church and the spread of the Gospel. The Ten Disciples were instrumental in the ministry of Jesus and were witnesses to His teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection.

Biblical Context and Names

The Ten Disciples, as part of the Twelve Apostles, are listed in several passages in the New Testament. The Berean Standard Bible provides these accounts in the Gospels:

· Matthew 10:2-4 : "These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon, called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him."

· Mark 3:16-19 : "These are the twelve He appointed: Simon (whom He named Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (whom He named Boanerges, meaning 'Sons of Thunder'), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus."

· Luke 6:14-16 : "Simon, whom He named Peter, and his brother Andrew; James and John; Philip and Bartholomew; Matthew and Thomas; James son of Alphaeus and Simon called the Zealot; Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor."

The Ten Disciples, therefore, include: Peter, Andrew, James (son of Zebedee), John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus (also known as Judas son of James), and Simon the Zealot.

Role and Ministry

The Ten Disciples were chosen by Jesus to be His closest followers and were given authority to preach, heal, and cast out demons. They were sent out in pairs to spread the message of the Kingdom of God (Mark 6:7-13). They were present at key events in Jesus' ministry, such as the Sermon on the Mount, the Transfiguration, and the Last Supper.

Witnesses to the Resurrection

After the resurrection of Jesus, the Ten Disciples were among the first to witness the risen Christ. In John 20:19-23 , Jesus appeared to the disciples, showing them His hands and side, and breathed on them, saying, "Receive the Holy Spirit." This event marked the beginning of their mission to spread the Gospel to all nations.

The Great Commission

The Ten Disciples, along with the other apostles, were given the Great Commission by Jesus before His ascension. In Matthew 28:18-20 , Jesus instructed them, "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

Legacy and Impact

The Ten Disciples, through their faithfulness and dedication, laid the foundation for the early Christian church. Their teachings and writings, inspired by the Holy Spirit, continue to influence Christianity today. The Acts of the Apostles and various epistles in the New Testament document their missionary journeys and the establishment of Christian communities throughout the Roman Empire.

Conclusion

The Ten Disciples, as part of the original Twelve Apostles, played a crucial role in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Their witness to His resurrection and their obedience to the Great Commission were instrumental in the spread of Christianity and the establishment of the early church.