Bartholomew (Nathanael)

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Bartholomew (Aramaic/Greek): “son of Tolmai”; Nathanael (Hebrew): “God has given”
• Period/Era: Second Temple Period; Roman Imperial Context
• Main References: Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14; John 1:45–51; John 21:2
• Key Connections: Jesus; Philip (who introduces him); the Twelve apostles (Bartholomew listed)

Who was Bartholomew (Nathanael)?

Bartholomew is named in the Synoptic lists of the Twelve apostles (Matt. 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14).
In John, Nathanael appears as a disciple brought to Jesus by Philip and commended for his honesty (John 1:45–47).
Many identify Bartholomew with Nathanael based on their consistent association with Philip in the Gospel accounts.

Key Events & Achievements

• Call through Philip: Encounters Jesus and confesses him as “the Son of God” and “the King of Israel” (John 1:45–49).
• Included among the Twelve: Listed as one of Jesus’ apostles in the Synoptic catalogues (Matthew 10:2–4; Mark 3:16–19; Luke 6:13–16).
• Post-resurrection presence: Named among disciples at the Sea of Tiberias after Jesus’ resurrection (John 21:2).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Bartholomew (Nathanael) is remembered as a disciple whose initial skepticism gave way to public recognition of Jesus’ identity and continued participation among Jesus’ followers.

Key Verse

"Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!”" — John 1:47, ESV