Who was Lebbeus?

Lebbeus was one of the twelve original apostles chosen by Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. He is mentioned briefly in the New Testament, where he is also called Thaddaeus and sometimes Judas son of James. The name “Lebbeus” is thought to derive from a Hebrew root word meaning “heart” or “courageous,” possibly suggesting “man of heart” or “heart-child.” In Greek, the name is rendered Λεββαῖος (Lebbaios). Some ancient manuscripts describe him as “Lebbeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus” (Matthew 10:3, KJV), indicating he may have been known by multiple names or nicknames.

Lebbeus is listed among the twelve disciples in Matthew 10:3 and is generally identified with the “Judas (not Iscariot)” mentioned in John 14:22. Though he is not one of the more prominent apostles like Peter or John, Lebbeus played a key role in the foundational community of believers who followed and served Jesus during His earthly ministry and were later empowered to spread the gospel after the resurrection.

Biblical References and Cross-References

• Matthew 10:2-4 – “These are the names of the twelve apostles: … Lebbeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus…”

• Mark 3:16-19 – Refers to Thaddaeus.

• Luke 6:13-16 – Lists “Judas son of James.”

• John 14:22 – “Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, ‘But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?’”

• Acts 1:13 – After Jesus’ ascension, Judas son of James is mentioned as part of the early Christian community.

Multiple Names Explained

It was not uncommon in Jewish culture for individuals to be known by more than one name, especially when interacting in different languages or regions. Lebbeus was likely his personal or Aramaic name, Thaddaeus a nickname, and Judas his formal Hebrew name. The Gospel writers vary in which name they used, but the consensus is that all refer to the same person. Some suggest “Thaddaeus” means “breast-child” or “dear heart,” which aligns with “Lebbeus” in spirit and affection.

What Happened in the Bible?

While Lebbeus is not one of the central figures in the gospel narratives, he is present as one of the twelve chosen by Jesus to be His apostles—those entrusted with His message and sent out with authority (Matthew 10:1-4). His inclusion in the list of apostles confirms his intimate role in Jesus’ ministry and witness to His life, death, and resurrection.

In John 14:22, Lebbeus—referred to as Judas (not Iscariot)—asks Jesus why He is revealing Himself only to the disciples and not to the world. This moment, though brief, shows a heart that longs for the world to see and know the Messiah. Jesus responds by teaching about love, obedience, and the coming of the Holy Spirit, affirming that God makes His home with those who love Him.

While the New Testament does not detail Lebbeus’ post-ascension ministry, church tradition holds that he went on to evangelize in regions like Syria, Mesopotamia, or Armenia. Some sources associate him with martyrdom, possibly dying a violent death for the faith he carried.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Lebbeus reminds Christians today that even those who are not prominently featured in Scripture are still vital to God’s plan. His question in John 14 reveals a genuine desire to see the gospel reach others. His faithfulness, though behind the scenes, was instrumental in the growth of the early church.

Christians can take encouragement from Lebbeus’ humility and obedience. Many believers live quiet lives of service without fanfare or recognition, yet their roles are no less significant in God’s Kingdom. The example of Lebbeus reinforces that faithfulness, not fame, is what God honors.

How Lebbeus Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Lebbeus’ life is marked by a personal relationship with Jesus, a calling to proclaim the gospel, and a desire for the world to know Christ. His question in John 14 draws out a key teaching from Jesus about divine intimacy—that the Father and Son make their home with those who love and obey Him.

Moreover, his probable missionary work and martyrdom reflect the heart of Jesus’ commission in Matthew 28:19-20. Like his fellow apostles, Lebbeus followed in Jesus‘ footsteps, spreading the gospel at great personal cost, embodying Jesus’ words in John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

Broader Biblical Themes

1. The Value of the Obscure

Lebbeus teaches us that God uses even lesser-known individuals for major Kingdom work. The Bible’s inclusion of names like his emphasizes that God sees and values each servant, even if history does not.

2. Unity in Diversity Among the Apostles

The apostles came from different backgrounds, with various names and personalities. Yet God united them for one purpose—advancing the gospel. Lebbeus contributes to the theme of unity in diversity within the Church.

3. Obedience and Mission

His life illustrates that true discipleship involves following Christ even when the path leads to danger or anonymity. Lebbeus’ likely missionary work is a testimony to the obedience Christ expects from all who follow Him.

4. Revelation to the Believer

Lebbeus’ question in John 14 prompted Jesus to speak about the special revelation believers receive through the Holy Spirit—truths hidden from the world but revealed to God’s children.

Reflection Questions

1. How does Lebbeus’ example encourage you when you feel unnoticed or unimportant in your walk with Christ?

2. Do you have a heart like Lebbeus, desiring the world to see Jesus clearly?

3. In what ways can you live out humble faithfulness in your church or community?

4. What does Jesus‘ response to Lebbeus in John 14 teach you about intimacy with God?

5. How can you cultivate obedience to Christ, even if your role in the Kingdom is not public or celebrated?

Lebbeus stands as a quiet yet faithful apostle whose life affirms that every follower of Christ, whether well-known or not, has a meaningful place in God’s redemptive plan.