LUKE 6:12–16
THE CALL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES
Text – Luke 6:12–16
12 In those days he departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God.
13 When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named apostles:
14 Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew,
15 Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot,
16 and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.
Historical and Jewish Context
Mountains were seen as sacred places for encountering God—recall Moses on Sinai or Elijah on Horeb. Spending the night in prayer reflects deep discernment, especially before making significant decisions. Choosing twelve men is symbolic: it recalls the twelve tribes of Israel, signaling the restoration of God’s people under a new covenant. “Apostle” (from the Greek apostolos, meaning “one who is sent”) indicates a new kind of leadership—missionary, relational, and rooted in Christ. This selection forms the foundation of the Church’s apostolic structure.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus’ night of prayer before choosing the Twelve emphasizes the importance of divine guidance in vocation and leadership (CCC 2602). The apostles are not self-appointed—they are called and sent by Christ. The number twelve represents the fullness of the new Israel, the Church (CCC 765). Their calling is the beginning of apostolic succession, through which bishops today continue their mission (CCC 1575–1577). Even Judas Iscariot’s inclusion reveals the mystery of God’s providence, human freedom, and the unfolding of salvation history (CCC 609).
Parallels in Scripture
Exodus 24:1 – Twelve elders on the mountain with Moses
Matthew 10:1–4 – List of the Twelve apostles
Mark 3:13–19 – Jesus appoints the Twelve
Acts 1:13, 21–26 – Replacing Judas with Matthias
Revelation 21:14 – Twelve apostles as foundation stones of the heavenly city
Key Terms
Prayer – Jesus seeks communion with the Father before a major decision
Mountain – Symbol of divine encounter and revelation
Apostles – Those chosen and sent by Christ with authority
Twelve – Symbolic of the twelve tribes; fullness of God’s people
Judas Iscariot – Reminder of human freedom and betrayal even within the chosen
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is read during feasts of apostles and vocations-themed liturgies. It underscores that Church leadership originates from Christ’s call and is sustained by prayer. It also affirms the apostolic foundation of the Catholic Church, expressed in the Nicene Creed: “one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.”
Conclusion
Jesus calls ordinary men, after prayerful discernment, to an extraordinary mission. The apostles’ calling reminds us that the Church is rooted in divine initiative, not human ambition. Their legacy continues through the bishops and in every baptized Christian called to witness and mission.
Reflection
Do I pray before making important decisions like Jesus did?
Am I open to the mission Christ has for me, even if it seems beyond my ability?
Do I support and pray for the Church’s leaders who carry on the apostolic mission?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You chose the Twelve to share in Your mission. Help me to be faithful to my calling and to support those who lead Your Church. May I respond to Your invitation with trust, knowing that You choose and equip those You call. Amen.