The Biblical Definition Of An Apostle
The term “apostle” comes from the Greek word apostolos which means “one sent.” In the Bible, apostles are those sent by Jesus to preach his word and provide spiritual counseling to the early church. The original twelve apostles were handpicked by Jesus to be his primary representatives and ambassadors.
The message of Jesus and his Kingdom was to be spread to all nations by the apostles. Jesus commissioned the apostles to go forth, preach the word and perform signs and wonders in order to prove the power of the gospel. In Matthew chapter ten it is said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
The apostles were also granted a special grace from God in order to be powerful and effective messengers of the Gospel. In Luke chapter ten it is written, “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils.” Through the power of the Holy Spirit the apostles were able to carry out the commission of Christ with proficiency and enthusiasm.
Apostles After the Time of Christ
It is believed by some theologians that the position of apostle is an ongoing, commissioned title carried out by individuals set aside by the Lord. The primary function of apostolic ministry is to bring unity and harmony through the body of Christ. The apostles are responsible for providing spiritual leadership, guidance, and direction to the church in order to keep the church unified and its members obedient to the will of God.
Numerous books of the Bible were written by apostles, such as the book of Acts, written by the apostle Paul. Furthermore, in numbers Paul writes that Joshua is an instrument of the Lord to provide leadership, preaching and teaching to the Israelites. It is safe to assume that the same function of apostleship carries on today in the form of Pastors and other ministerial leadership.
It is widely accepted among many denominations of Christianity that those who are chosen to serve in the role of apostle must be recognized by other apostles or church leadership. For example, in the book of Acts, the apostle Paul is recommended to the church of Antioch as one sent by God to teach the ways of Jesus. Before a person can assume the role of apostle, he or she must be “set apart” by another apostle or Christian leader.
The Role Of Apostles In The Church
The apostolic role of today is one filled with an immense responsibility. Apostles are responsible for overseeing the spiritual health and development of their church. In addition, apostles must ensure their church remains faithful to their denomination’s core beliefs and ethical standards.
Apostles must be rooted in prayer, Scripture, and have a firm doctrinal foundation. They must be able to effectively interpret the Word of God and provide spiritual counsel when needed. Furthermore, apostles must ensure their church is following God’s commandments through the demonstration of a godly lifestyle.
The role of apostolic ministry is important in the life of any Christian church. Without apostolic leadership it would be difficult to maintain a unified body of faith and keep doctrine consistent. Consequently, many Christian churches entrust their spiritual health into the hands of those recognized as apostles in their denomination.
Characteristics of an Apostle
The Bible speaks of an Apostle being a messenger of God, a follower of Christ, and a leader. An apostle must be a person of good character who can display authority and conviction, as well as be able to admonish people in a gentle and wise manner. Apostles must also be devoted to seeking God’s will in matters, and be willing to lay down their life for the advancement of the Gospel.
The Bible also states that all apostles should have integrity and humility. An apostle must have a spirit of courage and boldness, and be able to proclaim God’s Word with conviction and power. Furthermore, all apostles must demonstrate a spirit of service and a willingness to put the needs of the people ahead of their own.
How To Recognize An Apostle
Perhaps the most important aspect of recognizing an apostle is determining whether or not they are recipients of the Holy Spirit’s power and guidance. An apostle who does not possess the anointing of God will not be able to carry out the duties of their position.
The Bible does not specify any particular qualifications for becoming an apostle other than those mentioned previously. Each church may have their own criteria for recognizing apostles, and many Christian denominations have set up a system of recognition and appointing those who can serve in an apostolic role.
Apostles Today
In today’s society, apostles come in different forms. There are apostles of social justice, apostles of political change, and apostles of education. The traditional role of an apostle as someone who carries out the mission of Jesus in the context of proclaiming the Gospel still exists as well.
More recently, the concept of an apostolic team has grown in popularity. Apostolic teams are groups of Christian leaders and ministers who work together to bring unity and strength to their church. This allows apostolic ministries to have a broader reach, and allows the apostolic movement to spread the Gospel faster and further than ever before.
Conclusion Of The Role Of An Apostle
The position of apostle is an important one in Christianity and can have a profound effect on the spiritual health of a church. Apostles are responsible for carrying the message of Christ and unifying the body of believers. Those sent out as apostles today have the same authority and spiritual gifts that the original apostles did, and it is important that the church recognizes and supports them in their mission.
