The twelve disciples of Jesus, also called apostles, were ordinary men called to follow Christ and carry His message to the world. After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, they spread the Gospel, faced persecution, and many ultimately gave their lives as martyrs for their faith. While the New Testament records their lives and ministries, historical sources, early church writings, and tradition provide details about their deaths. Here is an account of each apostle and the circumstances surrounding their death.

1. Peter

Peter, the fisherman turned apostle, is considered the leader of the early church. Tradition holds that he was crucified in Rome under Emperor Nero around AD 64. However, Peter requested to be crucified upside down, feeling unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus. His leadership in spreading the Gospel to Jews and Gentiles made him a target of Roman persecution.

2. James the son of Zebedee

James, brother of John, was part of Jesus’ inner circle and witnessed key events such as the Transfiguration. Acts 12:1-2 records that King Herod Agrippa I executed him by the sword around AD 44, making him the first apostle to be martyred. His death strengthened the resolve of the early church and is remembered for his bold witness to Christ.

3. John the son of Zebedee

John, James’ brother, is traditionally believed to have been the only apostle to die a natural death. Exiled to the island of Patmos during the reign of Emperor Domitian, he wrote the Book of Revelation and continued his ministry in Ephesus, living into old age. His teachings emphasize love, faith, and perseverance in trials.

4. Andrew

Andrew, Peter’s brother, preached the Gospel in regions including Greece and Asia Minor. Church tradition holds that he was martyred by crucifixion on an X-shaped cross in Patras, Greece. He is remembered for his missionary zeal and his willingness to suffer for Christ.

5. Philip

Philip traveled widely, spreading the Gospel in Asia Minor. According to tradition, he was crucified in Hierapolis, Phrygia (modern-day Turkey), though some accounts suggest he may have been stoned or beheaded. He is remembered for his evangelistic efforts and his role in early church leadership.

6. Bartholomew (also called Nathanael)

Bartholomew is believed to have preached in India, Armenia, and possibly Mesopotamia. Historical accounts vary, but tradition states that he was flayed alive and then beheaded, reflecting the extreme dangers early Christians faced. His courage in the face of persecution is highlighted in church history.

7. Matthew (also called Levi)

Matthew, the former tax collector and author of the Gospel of Matthew, spread the Gospel in Judea and later in other regions such as Ethiopia or Persia. Some traditions hold that he was martyred by stabbing or by sword, though the exact details remain uncertain. His life illustrates the transformative power of Christ’s call.

8. Thomas (also called Didymus)

Thomas is famous for doubting the resurrection until he saw Jesus’ wounds. Tradition holds that he traveled to India to establish churches and was martyred there by spearing. Today, the Thomas Christians in India trace their origins to his missionary work, demonstrating the lasting impact of his faith and obedience.

9. James the son of Alphaeus

Often called James “the Less,” he is less prominent in the New Testament. Tradition varies, but some accounts suggest he was crucified in Egypt, while others say he was stoned. Regardless of the exact method, he is remembered for his steadfast commitment to Christ amid persecution.

10. Thaddaeus (also called Jude, son of James)

Thaddaeus preached the Gospel in regions such as Syria, Mesopotamia, and Persia. Church tradition holds that he was martyred by being clubbed or crucified. He is often invoked for his faithful witness and is sometimes associated with the Epistle of Jude in the New Testament.

11. Simon the Zealot

Simon, called the Zealot due to his association with a Jewish revolutionary movement, is believed to have preached in Egypt, Persia, and possibly Britain. Tradition states that he was martyred by crucifixion or sawing in half, though historical details are scarce. He is remembered for his dedication to spreading the Gospel beyond Israel.

12. Judas Iscariot

Judas Iscariot is the apostle who betrayed Jesus to the religious authorities. According to the New Testament, he died by suicide (Matthew 27:5) shortly after betraying Christ. His tragic end serves as a strong warning about greed, unbelief, and the consequences of rejecting Christ.

The twelve disciples exemplify a wide range of human responses to Christ: faith, courage, doubt, and even betrayal. Most of them faced violent deaths, often by crucifixion, beheading, or martyrdom, reflecting the high cost of spreading the Gospel in a hostile world. Their lives and sacrifices continue to inspire Christians to live faithfully, boldly, and with a willingness to suffer for the name of Jesus.

These accounts combine biblical records, early church writings, and historical tradition. While not all details are certain, the overall testimony is clear: the apostles were willing to give their lives for the Gospel, demonstrating the enduring power of Christ’s call.