The Fate of the Apostles
Have you ever wondered what happened to the Twelve Apostles? The Bible doesnt record their fate, but there is a consensus among Bible scholars based on trustworthy sources. These earliest leaders gave their lives to impact the Church.
Peter worked in Jerusalem for some time. He then went to Rome serving as the first Bishop. He died on a cross hanging upside down, not feeling worthy to die like Christ.
Andrew evangelized in Greece, Ukraine and Russia. He preached for 2 days until his death while being crucified in Greece on an X-shaped cross.
James preached in Jerusalem and Judea. King Herod beheaded him.
John took care of Mary as her adopted son. Later he was the bishop of Ephesus. He died of natural causes while living in exile on the Greek island of Patmos.
Philip ministered in Turkey where he was flogged, imprisoned and crucified.
Bartholomew (Nathanael) went to Armenia, Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. He was tortured and crucified in India.
Thomas labored in Iraq and Iran. While working in India, he died by a sword.
Matthew preached in Jerusalem before going to Ethiopia, eventually killed by a sword.
James, son of Alphaeus, served as the first Bishop of Jerusalem. At age 90 he was stoned and clubbed to death in Jerusalem.
Jude (Thaddeus) preached in Iraq and Iran. He died on a cross in Turkey.
Simon the Zealot traveled widely in Africa. He was crucified in what is today Britain.
Matthias replaced Judas as the twelfth Apostle. His ministry was in Jerusalem where he was stoned and beheaded.
These 12 men spread the Gospel from what is now Israel to 3 continents: Africa, Asia and Europe. Their leadership directly impacted the Church. Wherever they went, some accepted Christ, formed churches and then passed on the Gospel to the next generation. Their leadership has impacted every Christian who has ever lived.
Jesus made it clear that being a Christian is not an easy life. If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first … I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you … Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you.” (John 15:18-21 Message).
Throughout history many believers have been martyred; and there are believers around the world today being persecuted for their faith. Someday you may be asked to give your life for Christ. If so, would you being willing to lay down your life for Jesus?
© 2011 Designed to Serve®
Dr. Steve Lake is a retired educator with over 30 years experience in the American public schools. He has served in a variety of position, including teacher, elementary school principal, junior high principal, Associate Superintendent, retired from public education as Superintendent of Schools in Lincolnwood, IL. He has his Bachelors, Masters and Doctor of Education degrees from Northern Illinois University. For the past 25 years Steve has attended and been a member of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington and Northfield, IL. At Willow Creek Steve has taught adult classes on spiritual gifts, life purpose, and spiritual disciplines. He has ministered overseas in Angola, Zambia, Honduras, Germany, and Russia. Steve is co-founder of Designed to Serve, a ministry that equips Christians to live out their unique God-given calling. Steve is married and has two adult children who are married.
