Simon,(whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew,
LUKE 6:14KJVWhat does Luke 6:14 mean?
Luke 6:14 lists the first group of Jesus’ chosen apostles: Simon (whom Jesus also named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, and Bartholomew. This verse is part of a longer passage where Jesus selects twelve specific followers to be his closest disciples.
In this moment, Jesus is speaking to a larger group of his followers, but he is naming the twelve men who will have a special role as apostles. The verse highlights Simon’s new name, Peter, which signals a new identity or mission. Naming each man individually shows their importance and the personal relationship Jesus has with them.
The Greek behind Luke 6:14
- Σίμων (Simōn, “Simon”) and Πέτρος (Petros, “Peter”): The Greek text notes that Simon is also called Peter, indicating a significant renaming by Jesus. This renaming often points to a new purpose or role.
- ὀνόμασεν (onomasen, “named”): The Greek word used here means “to name” or “to call by name,” emphasizing that Jesus is intentionally giving Simon a new identity.
- ἀδελφὸς (adelphos, “brother”): This word clarifies the family relationship between Andrew and Simon, showing that Jesus’ followers included siblings.
- Βαρθολομαῖος (Bartholomaios, “Bartholomew”): This name appears in the list, and the Greek form matches the way it is used elsewhere in the New Testament.
Why Luke 6:14 matters
- Luke 6:14 clarifies who the first apostles were, which helps readers understand the foundation of Jesus’ closest group of followers.
- The verse draws attention to Simon’s new name, Peter, which becomes significant throughout the Gospels and the early church.
- Listing the apostles by name shows that Jesus’ mission involved real people with unique backgrounds and relationships, grounding the story in history.