Bible Word of the Day
Apostle (Sent or Called One)
Meaning
The word apostle is really a term which has lost its true meaning in the Christian world today. In many denominations pride and sin have led men to call themselves apostles when they are truly not. The title apostle has a very strict definition. An apostle is someone who was called directly by Jesus physically either during His earthly ministry or after His resurrection as the case with Paul. In addition the title can also be applied to those who have seen and interacted with Jesus after His resurrection. So to summarize apostles are only those men who have physically (not spiritually) seen, spoke with and interacted with Jesus. So with these definitions in mind who are the “real” apostles?
They include the twelve disciples whom Jesus called with exception of Judas Iscariot, who was replaced by Matthias. Paul, who was directly called by the risen Christ on the road to Damascus and the founders of the early church who helped build the church. These men include James the half-brother of Jesus who, like Paul was called by the risen Lord, Barnabas and possibly Silas. The apostles had a very specific purpose and that was to provide leadership to the early church under the direct supervision of the Holy Spirit. They received their training or education as it were, directly from Jesus Himself. There are no apostles today, they all died in the first century. Today we have only pastors and teachers who lead their congregations as they our called by God and directed by the Holy Spirit to teach the word of God.
“And when it was day, He called His disciples to Himself; and from them He chose twelve whom He also named apostles: Simon, whom He also named Peter, and Andrew his brother; James and John; Philip and Bartholomew; Matthew and Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called the Zealot; Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot who also became a traitor.” (Gospel of Luke 6:13-16)
“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles.” (Book of Acts 2:42-43)