How many disciples did Jesus have?

Of Jesus original 12 companions (his disciples), all but one remained faithful (Judas Iscariot betrayed him). The book of Acts, chapter 1, tells about the faithful 11 seeing to it that there be a replacement of Judas because he betrayed Jesus and in order to fulfill prophecy (compare Psalm 109 : 8). Matthias was reckoned to be that replacement. So the most common use of the term refers to those who were apostles of Christ, who had been directly sent forth by him.