Definition and Origin

Apostolic Ministry refers to the work and mission of the apostles, as well as the continuation of their ministry through the church. The term "apostle" comes from the Greek word "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent out." The Apostolic Ministry is rooted in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ appointed the twelve apostles to be His primary messengers and representatives. This ministry is characterized by preaching the gospel, establishing churches, and providing spiritual leadership and guidance.

Biblical Foundation

The foundation of Apostolic Ministry is found in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. Jesus called the twelve apostles to follow Him and be His witnesses. In Mark 3:14-15 , it is written, "He appointed twelve, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons." This passage highlights the dual role of the apostles: to preach the gospel and to exercise spiritual authority.

After His resurrection, Jesus commissioned the apostles with the Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20 : "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." This commission underscores the global and enduring nature of the Apostolic Ministry.

Characteristics of Apostolic Ministry

1. Preaching and Teaching: Apostolic Ministry is primarily concerned with the proclamation of the gospel and the teaching of sound doctrine. The apostles were tasked with spreading the message of Jesus Christ and instructing believers in the faith. Acts 2:42 states, "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."

2. Church Planting and Leadership: The apostles were instrumental in establishing and organizing the early church. They appointed elders and leaders to oversee the congregations, ensuring that the church remained faithful to the teachings of Christ. In Titus 1:5 , Paul instructs Titus, "The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you."

3. Miraculous Signs and Wonders: The Apostolic Ministry was often accompanied by signs and wonders, which served to confirm the message of the gospel. Acts 5:12 records, "The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people, and with one accord the believers gathered together in Solomon's Colonnade."

4. Suffering and Perseverance: The apostles faced significant opposition and persecution as they carried out their ministry. Despite these challenges, they remained steadfast in their mission. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 , Paul recounts his sufferings for the sake of the gospel, highlighting the trials endured by those in Apostolic Ministry.

Continuation of Apostolic Ministry

While the original apostles held a unique and foundational role in the early church, the principles of Apostolic Ministry continue through the work of the church today. Ephesians 4:11-13 speaks of the ongoing roles within the church: "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ."

The church is called to carry on the mission of the apostles by spreading the gospel, teaching sound doctrine, and nurturing the spiritual growth of believers. This continuation of Apostolic Ministry is vital for the health and expansion of the church, as it seeks to fulfill the Great Commission and advance the kingdom of God.