Jude Thaddeus: An Apostle with three names

Jude, Thaddeus, or Lebbeus is an Apostle with three names—‘Trinomious’. He was the son of Apheus or Cleophas and Mary and the younger brother of James the Less. Thaddeus is generally accepted to be St. Jude, apostle and author of the book of the New Testament.

Nationalist

As a Nationalist, he dreamed that when Messiah came, the Chosen people of God would have global power and domination. There is only one occasion in which Thaddeus spoke, in the Upper Room, as recorded by John. He wondered why the resurrected Lord would appear to disciples and not the world.(John 14:22)

Relationship with the Lord

It is also important to ask questions to the right person. Certain questions require a relationship with the other person. Thaddeus had a good relationship with the Lord, and he asked an important question. Honest doubts and questions deserve to be addressed.

Vision for the whole world

Thaddeus wanted the Lord to reveal or manifest Himself to the whole world so that the whole world would recognize and accept the Messiah.

Misconception about Messiah

Like many Jews, his idea was that of Theocracy for Israel and the Judgement of Gentiles. They did not expect the Messiah to love the sinners and die on the cross instead of conquering the world. Thaddeus wanted the world to know the Powerful Messiah. However, the Lord answered that the way to power is the way to love. The Kingdom of God has to invade the hearts of men and women. Lord’s Kingdom begins as a spiritual Kingdom in individuals and would be manifest ultimately in the whole universe when the Lord comes again.

Ministry of Thaddeus

It is believed that Thaddeus ministered in Mesopotamia, Syria, and Persia. Thaddaeus also ordained priests in Edessa and built a church there. He went to Beirut and founded a church there as well.

Death

One tradition states that he preached in Edessa near the Euphrates River and healed many. He died as a martyr, being killed with arrows at Ararat.

Challenge

A Nationalist, who had a misconception about the Messiah and Mission, was transformed. Like him, all can approach the Lord with honest questions and doubts. His question brought an important truth to all believers.