ABSTRACT
So far, the evidence for the martyrdom of the apostles has been carefully examined. We have convincing evidence Peter, Paul, James, the son of Zebedee, and James, the brother of the Lord, died as martyrs. It is more probable than not that Thomas died as a martyr, and Andrew warrants a designation of more plausible than not for his fate. And the scant evidence for some of the lesser-known apostles, such as Simon the Zealot and Matthias, makes it difficult to determine their fates with any confidence. The critical point is not that we might establish the martyrdom of all the apostles; rather, their willingness to suffer and die for their firsthand witness of the risen Jesus—this is of foremost importance. The evidence shows that some really died as martyrs, and that none recanted.
