THE TWELVE APOSTLES-PHILIP

His name is Greek and means lover of horses. He was from Bethsaida of Galilee, the village of Peter and Andrew. Since the primary industry of this village was fishing it is likely Philip was also a fisherman. He is reputed to be of the tribe of Zebulon.

Ministry: He is only mentioned in John's gospel. He was the one who wondered how the 5000 could be fed, whether or not to bring the Greeks to Jesus, and what was the nature of the Father (He who has seen me has seen the Father.) It was also Philip who brought Nathanael to Jesus. The earliest tradition has him preaching the gospel and being martyred in Hieropolis of Phrygia. Tradition has it that he had four daughters who also ministered with him. He is not to be confused with the deacon Philip in the book of Acts.