The Final Six Apostles are Chosen 

On Sunday, June 23, 26 CE, Jesus gave his final directions to his six disciples, instructing them to spread the good news of the kingdom in pairs but to refrain from baptizing or making public speeches. He explained that this initial phase focused on gaining firsthand experience in interacting personally with people. Despite some initial disappointment, the disciples understood Jesus' rationale and embarked on their mission with optimism, splitting into pairs to visit Kheresa, Capernaum, and Tarichea.

During their two-week mission, Jesus visited his family in Nazareth, striving to maintain their trust and love while adhering to his divine mission. Meanwhile, he contemplated John the Baptist's imprisonment, resisting the urge to intervene supernaturally, choosing instead to align with God's will.

Before they began this first two weeks of service, Jesus expressed his intention to appoint twelve apostles to carry on the kingdom's work after he left and allowed each disciple to nominate a candidate. This decision sparked a discussion among them, especially John Zebedee, who questioned the equality of new members with those who had been with Jesus from the beginning. Jesus assured them that the new apostles would be integrated fully and learn everything about the kingdom just as they had.

After deliberating on Jesus' directive to expand their group, Andrew persuaded them to embrace the decision, recognizing the need for more teachers and appreciating Jesus' trust in them. However, as they departed for their assignments, they felt a mix of sadness and apprehension, missing Jesus and questioning the modest start of the kingdom they envisioned.

The six disciples' first experience with missionary work proved highly successful, emphasizing the power of engaging directly and personally with individuals. Upon their return, their stories reflected an appreciation for the intensely personal nature of religious experience, emulating the personal religion of Jesus, and recognizing the widespread eagerness among ordinary people for spiritual encouragement and comfort.

Gathered around Jesus, eager to share their experiences, Andrew took the lead in organizing their reports. Each disciple then proposed his candidate for apostleship, which was confirmed through a collective vote, ensuring unanimous agreement on the new appointees. Jesus concluded by stating their next steps would involve personally visiting these selected individuals to invite them to join their mission.

On June 23, 26 CE, Jesus and his initial six apostles ventured to enlist Matthew Levi, the customs collector from Capernaum, chosen by Andrew for his remarkable integrity and keen interest in Jesus’ teachings. Welcoming Jesus’ straightforward command, "Follow me," Matthew immediately pledged his allegiance, marking a significant moment by preparing a banquet in Jesus' honor that evening.

This event also celebrated the calling of Simon Zelotes, a former merchant and patriotic Zealot leader, selected by Peter for his fervent dedication to the Jewish cause. Simon’s zeal for political liberation was redirected towards a spiritual mission. The banquet, attended by a diverse crowd including "publicans and sinners," showcased Jesus' radical inclusivity, prompting criticism from observing Pharisees. Unperturbed, Jesus articulated the essence of his mission, emphasizing his commitment to uplift the spiritually needy and marginalized, a stance that starkly contrasted with the prevailing religious norms.

The next step in forming the apostolic band involved visiting James and Judas Alpheus, the twins from Kheresa, whose nominations came from James and John Zebedee, respectively. Their shared fishing background and humble aspirations made them ideal candidates for Jesus’ vision of a universal brotherhood. Upon their formal calling, Jesus reassured them with, "Follow me," extending an invitation to partake in a mission transcending their previous life’s work. This gesture underscored the transformative journey ahead, characterized by direct service and profound spiritual engagements. Their induction into the apostolic group highlighted the diverse yet unified nature of Jesus' followers, each bringing unique perspectives yet unified in their devotion to the nascent kingdom message.

The assembly concluded with the addition of Thomas Didymus and Judas Iscariot in Tarichea, each representing distinct facets of the burgeoning movement. Thomas, known for his analytical mind yet plagued by doubts, was chosen by Philip, acknowledging the value of questioning within faith’s journey. Jesus' statement, "Thomas, you lack faith; nevertheless, I receive you. Follow me," encapsulated the inclusive spirit of his ministry, welcoming skeptics and believers alike.

Judas Iscariot’s inclusion, prompted by Nathaniel and rooted in Judas' financial acuity, introduced a complex character into the apostolic group, highlighting the diverse array of backgrounds and skills within the group. He was the only son of wealthy Jewish parents living in Jericho. Jesus said to him, "Judas, we are all of one flesh, and as I receive you into our midst, I pray that you will always be loyal to your Galilean brethren. Follow me."

Jesus then allowed the apostles time to bond and reflect on his teachings, emphasizing the need to avoid conflicts with civil authorities and focus on their spiritual mission. This period marked significant growth in the apostolic group, setting the foundation for their collective ministry.