Bartholomew is a lesser-known character in the New Testament who is mentioned in each of the lists of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:14-19; Luke 6:13-16). He is most likely the same individual as Nathanael (see John 1), someone who was sincerely studying the Scriptures and waiting for the Messiah to come.
His wait was no doubt rewarded when Jesus appointed him as one of the twelve, and he had the opportunity to witness the Messiah’s healing, teaching, and preaching ministry. He also experienced the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, spurring his work as a missionary for Jesus.
So, let’s dig deeper into what the Bible and historical Christian traditions can teach us about Bartholomew. We’ll cover:
Bartholomew’s background
The first we read about Bartholomew is in Matthew 10:2-4:
“The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him” (ESV).
The name Bartholomew gives us hints about his lineage. Bartholomew is Aramaic, meaning “son of Tolmai” or “son of Talmai” (in Aramaic, bar means “son”).1
Scholars believe that Bartholomew is the same character as Nathanael (mentioned in John 1:45). Here’s what Bible commentators say about it:
“Nathanael was probably his own personal name. The Synoptic Gospels [Matthew, Mark, and Luke] make no mention of Nathanael, and the Gospel of John says nothing of Bartholomew. John mentions Nathanael, together with others of the Twelve, in a setting where it seems that none but disciples of the inner circle of Twelve were present (see ch. 21:2). Thus there is no valid reason for doubting that the two names Bartholomew and Nathanael refer to the same person.”2
In this case, Bartholomew was likely his family name, and Nathanael, his first name. And this makes sense, since it wasn’t uncommon for Jews in the first century to have two names.
According to John 21:2, he came from Cana of Galilee. And it’s there that his friend Philip found him and invited him to meet Jesus (John 1:43-45).
Bartholomew’s discipleship
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Bartholomew is mentioned only a handful of times in the Gospel accounts. Still, because he was part of the twelve disciples, he would’ve been with them through many key events of Jesus’ ministry, such as the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus’ healing miracles, and the crucifixion.
Jesus would also have appointed him together with the other disciples to go out and preach, heal, and cast out demons (Mark 3:14-19).
The most we know about Bartholomew, though, comes from his first encounter with Jesus.
The account gives us evidence of a close connection between Bartholomew and Philip, the disciple who invited him to meet Jesus. Interestingly, Bartholomew is also always listed right after Philip when the disciples are named in the Bible (Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:14-19; Luke 6:13-16).
When Philip found Bartholomew, he exclaimed:
“We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” (John 1:45, ESV).
This tells us that both Philip and Bartholomew were earnest students of the Scriptures. They were eager for the promised Messiah of the Old Testament.
And yet, Bartholomew was a bit skeptical: “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” (John 1:46, ESV).
Rather than arguing with him, Philip simply invited him to come and see (John 1:47). And so, Bartholomew did.
He wasn’t disappointed.
When Jesus saw Bartholomew coming toward Him, He said, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” (John 1:47, ESV).
What a high compliment! Jesus recognized the sincerity in him. Bible commentators note:
“Nathanael was one of that small but devout group who earnestly waited for ‘the consolation of Israel’ (see Luke 2:25) and aspired to the high ideals set before them by God.”3
Bartholomew was taken aback. “How do You know me?” he asked (John 1:48, NKJV).
Jesus responded, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you” (John 1:48, NKJV).
Jesus had taken notice of Bartholomew’s sincere longing for the Messiah. He knew him inside and out. This realization made Bartholomew exclaim:
“Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel” (John 1:49, ESV).
And so began his faithful discipleship with Jesus. Though he would experience the disappointment of the crucifixion with the other disciples, he would emerge courageous and hopeful, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Bartholomew’s life after Jesus’ ascension
Photo by Amaury Gutierrez on Unsplash
Bartholomew was there with the other disciples (except Judas) after Jesus’ resurrection. He would’ve heard Jesus’ promise and commission: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8, ESV).
Together with the other disciples, Bartholomew took those words to heart.
Acts 1:12-13 records that he went to Jerusalem and joined the disciples in the upper room. There, they prayed and waited for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2 tells us the revolutionary results of those prayers. The disciples received the Holy Spirit “like a rushing mighty wind,” and began to preach the good news of Jesus (verse 1, NKJV). All their fears were quieted, and they boldly shared about the one they loved.
Though we don’t know the details, we can assume that Bartholomew, like the other disciples, went from there and began to preach the gospel.
According to a tradition taught by the church father Eusebius of Caesarea, Bartholomew went to India, taking with him a gospel account of Matthew in Hebrew.4
Other traditions say he went to Armenia, Ethiopia, Mesopotamia, Parthia (modern-day Iran), and Lycaonia (modern-day Turkey).5
Again, the Bible and history don’t tell us for sure, but it’s most likely that he died a martyr for his faith.
Here’s what Foxe’s Book of Martyrs says about Bartholomew’s death:
“Preached in several countries, and having translated the Gospel of Matthew into the language of India, he propagated it in that country. He was at length cruelly beaten and then crucified by the impatient idolaters.”6
Bartholomew remained sincere in his faith to the end—leaving an example for us.
Bartholomew’s legacy
Photo by Fa Barboza on Unsplash
We may not know much about Bartholomew—his life before following Christ, his time as a disciple, or his accomplishments as an apostle—but what we do know about him leaves us a beautiful legacy.
He shows us what it looks like to have a heart sincerely seeking truth.
Bartholomew was searching the Scriptures, wanting to be led by the Holy Spirit, wanting to see the Messiah. And Jesus took notice, commending him.
His simple faith guided his journey as a disciple and later a missionary sharing the gospel. And his possible martyrdom means that he was making enough of a difference for Jesus that people would have taken notice.
But above all, Bartholomew’s example is a promise to us that Jesus indeed notices those who seek Him in sincerity and humility.
Because in the end, regardless of our life accomplishments, it’s our relationship with Jesus that truly matters.
Want to learn more about the other disciples of Jesus? See what they were like and how Jesus led each one of them.
Related pages
- Metzger, Bruce, and Coogan, Michael, ed., The Oxford Companion to the Bible, pp. 75, 45. [↵]
- Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, comment on Mark 3:18. [↵]
- Ibid., vol. 5, comment on John 1:47. [↵]
- “Saint Bartholomew,” Encyclopedia Britannica. [↵]
- Ibid. [↵]
- Foxe, John, Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, chapter 1. [↵]
More Answers
What the Bible Says About Resolving Conflicts
While it’s the main ingredient in a good story, it unfortunately can spoil things in real life. It might start from minor differences of opinion. But unchecked, it can turn into what feels like a full-blown war.
The Benefits of A Seventh-day Adventist Academy
Adventist academies are high schools (grades 9-12) that are owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Are Seventh-day Adventists Christians?
Yes, the Seventh-day Adventist Church is a Protestant Christian denomination formed in 1863. Just like other Christians, we believe that Jesus Christ is our Savior and seek to follow the principles of the Word of God.
Why are many Adventists Vegetarian?
While not every Adventist is vegetarian, many do avoid meat altogether in order to live a healthier life in efforts to honor God, physically, spiritually, and mentally.
Adventist Movies: Where Faith and Film Meet
The Adventist Church uses film to share our faith and uplift positive values. Learn more about specific Adventist-produced films and where to find them.
Does the Bible Teach Predestination?
your choices, actions, and habits really matter to your eternal destiny? Or is the path you choose in life predetermined, and your life is just following a script that’s been laid out for you?
The Seven Churches of Revelation and What They Mean
The seven churches were churches that received messages from Jesus Christ through the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos. These letters are in chapters 2 and 3 of Revelation.
Do Adventists Celebrate Christmas?
In general, most Seventh-day Adventists do celebrate Christmas.
Since our denomination doesn’t have specific guidelines about holidays, it’s up to each member to decide whether to celebrate it based on their personal convictions and study of the Bible.
How Can I Know Ellen White’s Messages Were From God?
It’s natural to be a bit skeptical when you hear about someone being “divinely inspired,” or that something is a “message from God,” etc. And we expect nothing different if you’re hearing about Ellen White, an influential co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, for the first time. After all, the Bible tells us that we’re supposed to test these things!
Ellen G. White’s Time in Australia
Ellen White traveled to Australia in the later part of her life, and she ended up spending nine years there. In that time, she helped the Australian Seventh-day Adventist Church increase in size and strength.
Ellen G. White’s Time in Europe
When the Seventh-day Adventist Church was still young, a council of the church in Europe requested Ellen White, one of Adventism’s key leaders, to come to Europe. Despite the many obstacles, God led her there to help the new churches and members for two years.
Ellen G. White’s Travels and Worldwide Mission
Though Ellen White, a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, is best known for her ministry in the United States, she also traveled to twelve other countries in her lifetime—a big accomplishment in the 19th century when travel was strenuous and long.
Ellen G. White’s Counsel on College Education
Ellen G. (Harmon) White, a significant co-founder of Adventism, is often known for her practical and spiritual guidance for proper childhood education. But she was also significantly involved in the development of Seventh-day Adventist higher education.
8 Pieces of Advice from Ellen White’s Counsel for Families
In this article, we’ll look at the insight Ellen White received from God. We’ll cover 8 major themes she highlighted for families.
Was Everything Ellen White Said Divinely Inspired?
The Seventh-day Adventist Church believes that many of Ellen White’s messages were inspired by God. But that doesn’t mean everything she ever said was prophetic, or meant to be taken as direct instruction from God. So let’s break down how to identify the nature of her many written messages and quotes.
Who Were Ellen White’s Children?
Being the children of a woman with a prophetic calling from God had its blessings and its challenges.
In this overview, we’ll look at the highlights of the lives of Ellen White’s sons during her many years of ministry, as well as the ways each of them decided to serve Jesus Christ:
Ellen White’s Spiritual Counsel on Marriage
As one of the founders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Ellen G. White was held in high regard. She was a prolific author and was heavily engaged in the mission of the denomination, prayerfully pursuing the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Sabbath Keeping: What It Looks Like in the Bible
That Sabbath would not be about a checklist of rules but about a mindset of rest. It’s a day to set aside daily cares and connect with God, our Creator. Out of our love for Him, we take the principles of the Bible and apply them in the way we keep the Sabbath.
Ellen G. White or the Bible—Which is More Important to Adventists?
Ellen G. White or the Bible—Which is More Important to Adventists?The Bible—without a shadow of a doubt—is the most important book. It’s the standard we use to test all other writings, including those of Ellen White. The Seventh-day Adventist Church believes that “the...
Are Any of Ellen G. White’s Prophecies Yet to Come True?
Ellen White, a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, demonstrated many times over that she had the spiritual gift of prophecy. Some of her predictions’ timelines have already passed, and those prophecies have been fulfilled. Others have yet to be fulfilled.
What Was Ellen G. White’s Counsel on Music?
Ellen G. White, one of the founders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, also provided helpful guidance regarding music choices for Christians. She provided sound principles to answer questions the young Adventist Church had.
What Does the Bible Say About Modesty
Seventh-day Adventists and Christians in general try to ensure their outward presentation and lifestyle glorify God. This often involves daily habits like the ways we hold conversations, the ways we dress and accessorize, and the ways we regard other people when we’re out and about.
What Ellen White Said About Using the Bible in Education
Ellen White, one of the founders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, believed that education was not complete unless it was founded upon the principles of the Bible.
But what does the Bible have to do with math or science? Is it important to integrate the Bible with schoolwork?
What Were Ellen White’s Visions About the Adventist Church?
What Were Ellen White’s Visions About the Adventist Church?Led by the Holy Spirit, Ellen G. White was given many messages, counsel, revelations, and visions about the Bible, history, prophecy, and how we can apply biblical principles to our daily lives. She was also a...
Is it necessary to attend church to draw closer to Christ?
What Does the Bible Say About Going to Church?While you certainly don’t have to go to church to develop a relationship with Jesus, the Bible makes it clear that gathering together with other believers can be really beneficial for your spiritual growth. For the early...
How Do I Know God Has Forgiven My Sins?
Knowing you’re forgiven is a big part of finding freedom in Christianity. The Bible tells us that after we’ve prayed for God’s forgiveness, we can believe we’re forgiven and accept His gift of pardon.
How Do Adventists Make Movie and Music Choices?
How do Adventists decide what music to listen to and which movies to watch? Learn how Bible principles can help us make better entertainment choices.
Does the Seventh-day Adventist Church Believe in Paying Tithe?
Seventh-day Adventists believe in paying tithe and offerings based on the biblical command and our commitment to being wise stewards of God’s resources. These donations help fund the mission of the Adventist Church by supporting pastors, missionaries, church expenses, and evangelistic projects, among other things.
How Does Jesus Christ Help Us Overcome Sin?
You might have heard the phrase somewhere about “gaining victory over sin” through “the power of Jesus Christ” or “through the blood of Jesus,” etc. But what does that mean exactly, and how does it all work…especially if we’re still having to live out our lives in a world that’s still full of sin?
Didn’t find your answer? Ask us!
We understand your concern of having questions but not knowing who to ask—we’ve felt it ourselves. When you’re ready to learn more about Adventists, send us a question! We know a thing or two about Adventists.