Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

The quest -- The path -- Peter: the rooster -- Andrew: the saltire -- James: the scallop shell -- John: the eagle -- Philip: the bread -- Bartholomew: the knife -- Thomas: the builder -- Matthew: the publican -- James: the lesser -- Jude: the exorcist -- Simon: the zealot -- Matthias: the elected -- Paul: the sword -- The discovery.

The stories and contributions of the apostles provide an important entrée into church history. This comprehensive historical and literary introduction uncovers their lives and legacies, underscoring the apostles' impact on the growth of the early church. The author collects and distills the histories, legends, symbols, and iconography of the original twelve and locates figures such as Paul, Peter, and John in the broader context of the history of the apostles. He also explores the continuing story of the gospel mission and the twelve disciples beyond the New Testament.