Have you ever wondered how twelve
ordinary men could walk with Jesus, face their fears, and help change the
world? They weren’t perfect. They doubted, argued, misunderstood — and still,
they became the foundation of a spiritual revolution.
One fascinating lens to understand their personalities,
strengths, and struggles is the Enneagram
— a powerful tool that describes nine core personality types based on
motivation, fear, and spiritual growth. [DOWNLOAD PDF AT THE END OF ARTICLE]
As we map each apostle onto the Enneagram wheel, a beautiful
truth emerges: God doesn’t choose perfect people — He perfects chosen
hearts.
The Enneagram and the Apostolic Journey
Let’s take a walk through the nine Enneagram types, using
each to explore the unique character and journey of one or more apostles — and
perhaps, yourself.
Type 1: The Reformer – Driven by a Need to Be Good
Philip & Simon the Zealot
Philip was methodical and careful, while Simon was fiery and passionate — both
driven by a strong sense of justice and “rightness.” Reformers want to make the
world better but can struggle with rigidity. In Jesus, they found the true
standard of righteousness: not law, but love.
If you’re a Type 1, ask yourself: Can I accept that divine grace—not
perfection—is what truly transforms?
Type 2: The Helper – Motivated by the Need to Be Loved
While no apostle was a classic Type 2, we can see this heart
in how Jesus interacted with individuals. The apostolic circle cherished those
who quietly served. Type 2s reflect the hidden ministry of love and care—so
essential, yet often unnoticed.
If you’re a Type 2, remember: Your worth is not in what you do for others,
but in who you are to God.
Type 3: The Achiever – Driven to Succeed
Matthew & Judas Iscariot
Matthew, the former tax collector, transformed his ambition into a tool for
kingdom service. Judas, however, allowed his desire for recognition and control
to lead him astray. Same core drive — vastly different outcomes.
If you’re a Type 3, consider: Is your success about your image or God’s
purpose through you?
Type 4: The Individualist – Longing to Be Authentic
John the Beloved
Sensitive, spiritually deep, and emotionally intuitive, John was the heart of
the apostolic band. He connected with Jesus on a profound, soul-level. Fours
feel deeply and often wrestle with feeling misunderstood or “too much.”
If you’re a Type 4, reflect: Your depth is a gift — let it lead you into
divine intimacy, not isolation.
Type 5: The Investigator – Seeking Understanding and Clarity
James Zebedee & Nathanael
Reserved, intelligent, and perceptive, these apostles weren’t loud leaders but
wise thinkers. They needed to understand before acting. In Jesus, they found
truth worth living — and dying — for.
If you’re a Type 5, ask: Can I move from observation to incarnation —
letting what I know become how I live?
Type 6: The Loyalist – Seeking Safety and Belonging
Andrew & Thomas
Andrew, the dependable brother of Peter, and Thomas, the honest doubter — both
craved security and were loyal to the truth as they saw it. Type 6s teach us
the beauty of faith forged in uncertainty.
If you’re a Type 6, trust: Courage isn’t the absence of fear. It’s choosing
faith even while afraid.
Type 7: The Enthusiast – Chasing Joy and Avoiding Pain
Judas (Alpheus)
Cheerful and encouraging, Judas loved community and brought joy wherever he
went. Type 7s remind us to embrace the present and see God in celebration —
without avoiding life’s deeper lessons.
If you’re a Type 7, wonder: Can I trust that even pain can be part of joy’s
journey?
Type 8: The Challenger – Strong, Assertive, Protective
Peter (Simon)
Bold, brash, and unafraid to take charge — Peter embodied Type 8 energy. When
transformed, his strength became shepherd-like leadership. But his struggle
with control and impulsiveness often tripped him up.
If you’re a Type 8, ponder: What happens when I surrender strength to serve
rather than to dominate?
Type 9: The Peacemaker – Longing for Harmony
James (Alpheus)
Quiet and humble, James never stood out, yet he was a vital calming presence
among the group. Type 9s are steady and selfless — often underappreciated, yet
deeply needed.
If you’re a Type 9, meditate: Can I see the strength in my stillness and the
power in peaceful presence?
So…Which Apostle Are You?
The Enneagram doesn’t limit us—it liberates us. It shows us
our starting point, the truth of who we are, and the path to
who we can become. The apostles didn’t stay trapped in their personality
patterns. They grew. They transformed. And so can we.
Final Thought: Jesus Meets Every Type
Whether you’re a reformer or a helper, a thinker or a feeler,
a questioner or a doer — Jesus
meets you there. He called fishermen, tax collectors, zealots, and
doubters. He still calls us today.
Not to become someone else. But to become our true self —
fully alive in His love.
Apostles
Enneagram TypesDownload
