What does Luke 6:15 mean?

Explanation

Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes are among the twelve disciples or apostles whom Jesus chose to be His closest followers.

The verse in question, Luke 6:15, lists four of these twelve individuals, and it is part of a larger passage where Luke is enumerating all the apostles.

Matthew, traditionally known as a tax collector, is often identified as the author of the Gospel of Matthew.

Thomas is famously known for his doubt regarding the resurrection of Jesus until he sees Jesus' wounds.

James, the son of Alphaeus, is not as prominently featured in the Gospels and is sometimes referred to as James the Less to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee.

Simon called Zelotes, or the Zealot, is believed to have been part of a Jewish sect known for their fierce opposition to Roman rule.

Each name holds significant meaning and reveals a unique aspect of the early Christian community, illustrating its diversity and the different backgrounds from which the apostles came.

Historical Context

Luke 6:15 is part of the Gospel of Luke, which is generally believed to have been written around 80-110 AD.

The Gospels were written in the context of a Roman Empire that was often hostile to the early Christian movement.

At the time, followers of Jesus were seeking to understand and preserve the teachings of their now-absent leader.

The Gospel of Luke is thought to have been written by Luke the physician, a companion of the Apostle Paul, and it emphasizes the universal nature of Jesus' message.

The apostles listed were key figures in spreading Christianity and imparting Jesus' teachings both word and deed throughout the Roman world.

Theological Insights

This verse contributes to the theological understanding of the early church's composition and diversity.

Matthew, a tax collector, would have been seen as a traitor by many Jews for working with the Roman occupiers.

Thomas represents the aspect of doubt and faith, showing that even those who have questions can be among Jesus' chosen followers.

James the son of Alphaeus may symbolize the quieter, less-known members of the community whose stories might not be as prominent.

Simon the Zealot's presence hints at the political diversity among the apostles, as he likely held strong anti-Roman sentiments.

The calling of these diverse individuals speaks to the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry, and to the idea that the Kingdom of God is open to all who are willing to follow Him.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse encourages inclusivity and acceptance of diversity within a community. As the early Christian church was comprised of individuals from various backgrounds and walks of life, modern communities can also embrace this principle.

The verse can inspire those who feel unworthy or outcast due to their past actions (like Matthew) or doubts and questions (like Thomas) that they, too, have a place in their communities and are capable of being valuable contributors.

Cross-References

• Matthew 10:2-4: "Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him."
• Acts 1:13: "And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James."
• Mark 3:18: "And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite,"

Language Study

The key names in the original Greek language are:

• Matthew (Ματθαῖος, Matthaios)
• Thomas (Θωμᾶς, Thomas)
• James (Ἰάκωβος, Iakobos), son of Alphaeus (Ἀλφαῖος, Alphaíos)
• Simon (Σίμων, Simōn) called Zelotes (ζηλωτής, zelōtēs)

The name "Simon" means "he has heard," and the epithet "Zelotes" refers to his zeal for the Jewish law and possibly his association with the Zealot party. Each name contains connotations that would have been understood within their cultural and religious context.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader context of ancient cultures, it was common for religious and philosophical groups to have an inner circle of followers or disciples, such as the students of Socrates or the followers of John the Baptist.

What is distinctive in the case of Jesus' apostles is the mixing of social backgrounds, from tax collectors to zealots, which reflects the radical inclusivity of Jesus' message in comparison to many other religious movements of the time.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct intersection of this verse with scientific understandings as the verse deals with historical and religious claims.

However, scientific disciplines such as archaeology and historical linguistics can provide insights into the historical context of the era, ensuring a better understanding of the lives and times of these figures.

Commentaries

Scholars and theologians have various interpretations of Luke 6:15.

Many focus on the diversity of Jesus' followers and what it reflects about His ministry.

Commentators might note the significance of Matthew's occupation and the connotations of Thomas' later characterization as "Doubting Thomas." Simon the Zealot's inclusion might be seen as indicative of Jesus' willingness to involve those with strong political opinions.

Experts often highlight these individuals' roles in the spread of early Christianity and the importance of their unique attributes in the mission of the Church.