shields of the apostles
Peter
It is believed that Peter died a martyr in Rome by crucifixion on an inverted cross because he felt he was not worthy to die on a cross in the same position as his Lord. His shield shows an inverted cross and two keys saltire, or crossed - the “keys to the Kingdom.” The crossed keys also refer to Peter’s confession and the words of Jesus about the power to “bind” and “loose” on earth and in heaven. (Matthew 16:15-20). |
James
James (also called James the Greater), the son of Zebedee and brother of John, was the first to be martyred. King Herod had him beheaded around A.D. 44, the only apostle’s martyrdom recorded in scripture, in Acts 12:1-2. In ages past, scallop shells were worn by persons on a pilgrimage - a journey to a holy place. The symbol seen on the shield for James is the scallop shell, a sign of pilgrimage by sea, with a sword signifying the manner of his death. |
John
John, a fisherman, brother of James the Greater, was known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” He was a close companion to Jesus from the beginning of His ministry. There were many attempts on John’s life, but none successful; he was the only apostle to die a natural death. His shield displays a serpent and a sword, recalling the reality of man’s sin and the power of the Sword of the Spirit over sin. |
Philip
The cross on Philip’s shield may refer to the power of the cross over idols, or to Philip’s manner of death, traditionally thought to be crucifixion. His is the Budded Cross, the ends of which are in trefoil form symbolizing the Trinity. The loaves of bread signify his presence with Jesus at the feeding of the five thousand. |
Matthias
Matthias, chosen to replace Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:15-26), was one of Jesus’ original disciples, having been with Him since the baptism by John the Baptist. He served as a missionary in Judea. He is thought to have been either stoned or beheaded for preaching the Gospel. His shield shows a sword on a Bible. |