Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 10:2

"Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the [son] of Zebedee, and John his brother;" — Matthew 10:2 (ASV)

The account that follows is more fully given in Mark 3:13-18 and Luke 6:12-19. Both of those evangelists have recorded the circumstances of their appointment. They agree in saying it was done on a mountain; and, according to Luke, it was done before the sermon on the mount was delivered, perhaps on the same mountain, near Capernaum. Luke adds that the previous night had been spent in prayer to God. See Luke 6:12.

Simon, who is called Peter. Peter means a rock. He was also called Cephas (John 1:42; 1 Corinthians 1:12; 1 Corinthians 3:22; 1 Corinthians 15:5; Galatians 2:9).

This was a Syro-Chaldaic word, signifying the same as Peter. This name was given probably in reference to the resoluteness and firmness which he was to exhibit in preaching the gospel. Before the Savior's death, he was rash, impetuous, and unstable. Afterwards, as all history affirms, he was firm, zealous, steadfast, and immovable. He was crucified at Rome with his head downwards, thinking it too great an honor to die as his Master did. See John 21:18.

James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother. This James was slain by Herod in a persecution.

The other James, the son of Alpheus, was stationed at Jerusalem and was the author of the epistle that bears his name. See Galatians 1:19; Galatians 2:9; Acts 15:13.

A James is mentioned (Galatians 1:19) as the Lord's brother. It has not been easy to ascertain why he was thus called. He is here called the son of Alpheus, that is, of Cleophas (John 19:25). Alpheus and Cleophas were but different ways of writing and pronouncing the same name. This Mary, called the mother of James and Joses, is called the wife of Cleophas (John 19:25).