What is the status of the disciples of Jesus (peace be upon him) in Islam, and are they the best of people after the Companions of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him)?

Allah's prophets and messengers are the best of creation. The best of creation after them are their companions, who were guided by their guidance. The best of these are the companions of our Prophet Muhammad, may Allah's prayers and peace be upon him, based on the Almighty's saying: "You are the best nation produced for mankind." The best of us are the Companions. And because the Prophet, may Allah's prayers and peace be upon him, is the best of creation, his companions are undoubtedly the best of companions. As for others among the followers and companions of the messengers, we cannot definitively say that one group is better than another, due to the lack of evidence for such a preference.