10 Interesting Facts About Bartholomew in the Bible

Bartholomew is one of the lesser-known disciples of Jesus. Yet, his presence among the Twelve Apostles makes him a key figure in the early church. While the Bible does not share much about his life, what we do know offers insight into his faith and commitment to Jesus.

1. Bartholomew Was One of the Twelve Apostles

Bartholomew is listed as one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus. His name appears in the apostolic lists in the Synoptic Gospels.

“These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter)… Bartholomew…”
— Matthew 10:2–3 (ESV)

You can also find him listed in Mark 3:18 and Luke 6:14.

2. He Is Often Identified With Nathanael

Many Bible scholars believe that Bartholomew and Nathanael are the same person. This is because Bartholomew is always listed with Philip, and Philip is the one who brought Nathanael to Jesus in John 1.

“Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth…’”
— John 1:45 (ESV)

3. He Was Honest and Sincere

When Jesus saw Nathanael (likely Bartholomew), He praised his character.

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

This shows that Bartholomew was a man of integrity.

4. He Was From Cana in Galilee

Nathanael, often equated with Bartholomew, was from Cana—the town where Jesus performed His first miracle.

“Nathanael of Cana in Galilee…”
— John 21:2 (ESV)

This connection suggests Bartholomew may have witnessed early signs and miracles of Jesus.

5. He Was Skeptical at First

Before believing, Nathanael doubted that anything good could come from Nazareth.

“Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’”
— John 1:46 (ESV)

His initial doubt turned into faith after meeting Jesus.

6. He Confessed Jesus as the Son of God

When Jesus told him He had seen him under the fig tree, Bartholomew responded with a strong confession of faith.

“Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!”
— John 1:49 (ESV)

This shows how quickly his heart turned to belief.

7. He Witnessed the Risen Christ

Bartholomew was present after Jesus' resurrection. He saw Jesus alive and even joined others at the Sea of Galilee.

“Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee… were together.”
— John 21:2 (ESV)

8. He Likely Became a Missionary

While the Bible doesn’t describe his ministry in detail, early church traditions say Bartholomew traveled to places like India, Armenia, and Ethiopia, preaching the Gospel.

Though not in Scripture, this shows how far his faith carried him.

9. He Died as a Martyr

Tradition holds that Bartholomew was martyred for his faith. Some say he was flayed alive and then beheaded for preaching about Jesus.

“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name's sake.”
— Matthew 24:9 (ESV)

This verse doesn’t name Bartholomew directly but fits the fate of many disciples, including him.

10. His Legacy Points to True Discipleship

Though not as famous as Peter or John, Bartholomew’s quiet faith, honesty, and willingness to follow Jesus leave a legacy of deep devotion.

“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
— John 20:29 (ESV)

Bartholomew didn’t need signs and wonders to believe—only truth.

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