APOSTLES: WHAT THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT THESE “CHOSEN”?
Apostles are
individuals who were chosen by Jesus Christ during his time on earth and sent
out to spread his teachings and establish his church. According to the New
Testament, there were twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, including Peter, James, John, Andrew,
Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus,
Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot.
The term
"apostle" comes from the Greek word "apostolos," which
means "one who is sent."
Apostles were
given the authority to preach the gospel, perform miracles, and establish
churches in different parts of the world. They were also tasked with preserving
the teachings of Jesus and spreading his message to future generations.
In addition to
the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, the New Testament also mentions other
apostles, including Paul, who was not one of the original twelve but was chosen
by Jesus after his resurrection. Paul is known for his missionary work and many
letters he wrote to early Christian communities.
Today,
the term "apostle" is often used to refer to individuals who are seen
as important leaders within the Christian community, but the role of the
apostles as established by Jesus is considered unique and unrepeatable.
In the
traditional Christian sense, the title of "apostle" is reserved for
the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus and for Paul, who was chosen by Jesus after
his resurrection.
These apostles
were given a unique authority and commission by Jesus to establish the church
and to spread his message throughout the world. As such, they are considered to
be the foundational leaders of the Christian church.
While it is
possible for individuals to use the term "apostle" in a more general
sense to refer to someone who is sent out to spread a message or who is seen as
a leader in a particular community, the traditional Christian understanding of
the role of apostle is specific and reserved for those chosen by Jesus.
It's worth noting that some Christian denominations may have different interpretations of the term "apostle" and may use it in different ways.
However, in
general, the traditional Christian understanding of the role of apostle is
closely tied to the historical figures chosen by Jesus and commissioned with a
unique authority and mission.
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