Jesus’ first apostle is traditionally recognized as Simon Peter. He was a simple fisherman from Galilee who was called by Jesus to become a ‘fisher of men.’ This calling is detailed in the Gospels, particularly in the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
Peter was one of the first disciples to be summoned by Jesus, along with his brother Andrew, who followed Peter into discipleship. His original name was Simon, but Jesus renamed him Peter, meaning ‘rock,’ which signifies the foundational role he would play in establishing the church.
Throughout the New Testament, Peter is depicted as a leading figure among the apostles, often speaking on behalf of the group and playing a crucial role in the early Christian community after Jesus’ resurrection. His journey from a fisherman to a cornerstone of Christianity illustrates the transformative impact of Jesus’ ministry.