Skip to main contentAccessibility feedback

Why do Matthew and Mark List Thaddeus in the Names of Apostles, but Luke Mentions Another Judas?

Question:

Why is the listing of names for the twelve apostles in Matthew 10 and Mark 3 different from Luke 6? The first two evangelists list Thaddeus instead of a second Judas, as does Luke.

Answer:

The apostle Thaddeus mentioned in the Gospels of Matthew (10:3) and Mark (3:18) is one and the same as the first Judas mentioned in Luke (6:16). It is likely that this apostle had a second name that was often used to avoid confusion with Judas Iscariot. A Catholic Commentary on Holy Scripture explains:

Doubtless like others of his time he enjoyed several names, and it is natural that the early Christians should have avoided the name he shared with the traitor (948).

Did you like this content? Please help keep us ad-free
Enjoying this content?  Please support our mission!Donatewww.catholic.com/support-us