The role and function of an apostle, as outlined in the Bible, is both foundational and transformative within the early Christian church. To understand the apostolic role, we must delve into the New Testament, where the apostles are primarily introduced, and examine their responsibilities, characteristics, and the enduring impact they left on Christianity.
The term "apostle" comes from the Greek word "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent out." This definition is crucial to understanding the apostolic function, as it emphasizes the mission-oriented nature of their work. Apostles were chosen and sent by Jesus Christ Himself to spread the Gospel and establish the early church. Their role was multifaceted, involving preaching, teaching, leading, and laying the groundwork for Christian doctrine and community.
The Calling and Commissioning of the Apostles
The calling of the apostles is a significant event in the New Testament, highlighting their divine selection. Jesus chose twelve men to be His closest followers and representatives. The Gospel of Mark records this moment: "And He appointed twelve, so that they might be with Him and He might send them out to preach and have authority to cast out demons" (Mark 3:14-15, ESV). This passage underscores two primary functions: to be with Jesus, learning directly from Him, and to be sent out as His emissaries.
The apostles were commissioned to carry forward the mission of Jesus after His ascension. In the Great Commission, Jesus instructed them, "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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV). This command encapsulates their role as evangelists and teachers, tasked with spreading the message of salvation and establishing the church across diverse cultures and regions.
The Apostolic Authority and Teaching
Apostles were endowed with authority not just to preach, but to perform miracles and establish doctrine. Their authority was divinely granted, as seen in Acts 1:8, where Jesus tells His apostles, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth" (ESV). This empowerment by the Holy Spirit was essential for their ministry, enabling them to perform signs and wonders that confirmed their message and attracted believers.
The apostles were also responsible for teaching and preserving the truth of the Gospel. The early church "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers" (Acts 2:42, ESV). Their teachings, grounded in the life and words of Jesus, became the foundation for Christian doctrine. The epistles written by apostles such as Paul, Peter, and John form a significant portion of the New Testament, providing theological insights and practical guidance for believers.
Apostolic Leadership and Church Planting
Leadership was a critical aspect of the apostolic function. The apostles were the initial leaders of the early Christian community, guiding the church through its formative years. They made pivotal decisions, such as addressing the inclusion of Gentiles in the church (Acts 15) and appointing elders to oversee local congregations (Titus 1:5). This leadership ensured the unity and doctrinal integrity of the church as it expanded.
Church planting was another vital function of the apostles. Paul, often referred to as the "Apostle to the Gentiles," exemplified this role through his missionary journeys, establishing churches across Asia Minor and Europe. His letters to these churches provide insight into the challenges and triumphs of early church planting. The apostolic mission was not just about establishing new congregations but nurturing them to maturity, ensuring they were rooted in sound doctrine and equipped to continue the work of the Gospel.
The Apostolic Legacy and Its Continuation
The legacy of the apostles is profound and enduring. They laid the foundation of the church, as Paul writes, "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone" (Ephesians 2:20, ESV). Their teachings and writings continue to guide the church today, forming the basis of Christian theology and practice.
While the original apostles held a unique and unrepeatable role in establishing the church, the apostolic function continues in a broader sense through those who engage in missionary work, church planting, and theological teaching. Some Christian traditions recognize certain individuals as apostles in a contemporary sense, emphasizing their role in pioneering new movements or regions for the Gospel.
Conclusion
In summary, the role and function of an apostle according to the Bible is comprehensive and foundational to the Christian faith. Apostles were divinely chosen and empowered to spread the Gospel, establish the church, and provide authoritative teaching. Their leadership and missionary work were instrumental in the growth and unity of the early church, and their legacy continues to influence Christianity today. The apostolic mission reminds us of the importance of faithful witness, doctrinal integrity, and the ongoing call to spread the message of Jesus Christ to all corners of the earth.
