as well as Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew the tax collector, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Cananaean
This verse continues the list of the names of the Twelve. These names may seem at first glance to be merely a listing, yet in God’s story they carry great significance. The Lord chose different people, with different temperaments, pasts, and roles. About some of them the Gospels tell very little, yet their names remain recorded as people who were called by Christ. This reminds us that in the kingdom of God the standards for standing out are not always the same as in the human world. Some may have a more visible ministry, others a quieter one, but if they are called by Christ and faithful, their place is significant in His plan. Here the diverse unity of the Church is also seen: different people, but one Lord, one calling, and one mission.