Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 10:3

"Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the [son] of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;" — Matthew 10:3 (ASV)

It seems probable that Bartholomew is Nathanael, whom Philip led to Jesus. They are fittingly paired. Bartholomew is never mentioned without an 'and'. He was the type of man who worked with other people.

It is also likely that Lebbeus is Jude, or Judas, not Iscariot. There may have been some link between him and James. A man may have an alias and yet not be an alien.

Observe how Matthew reminds us that he had been a publican. With holy gratitude, he therefore records his former state, so that the grace that called him might be the more conspicuous. Thomas was as truly called by the Lord as any of them, though he was one whose mind entertained distressing questions.