Dictionary of Bible Themes: 7708 apostles, function of

7708 apostles, function of

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 7000 God's people » 7700 Leadership and the people of God » 7706 apostles » 7708 apostles, function of

In the NT apostles are servants, first of Jesus Christ and then of the church. Apostolic service embraces a wide range of specific functions.

The functions of apostles during the earthly life and ministry of Jesus Christ

Being with Jesus Christ

Learning from Jesus Christ

Being sent out on a mission by Jesus Christ

Luke 9:1-6 pp Matthew 10:5-10 pp Mark 6:7-13 As Jesus Christ's representatives their ministry was an extension of his. See also Mark 3:14-15

Being commissioned to witness to Jesus Christ

Acts 1:8; Acts 10:39 See also Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-49; John 17:18; John 20:21

Apostles in the early church

They were witnesses of the resurrection

Acts 1:21-22 See also Acts 2:32; Acts 3:15; Acts 4:33; Acts 13:31; 1 Peter 5:1

They were servants of Jesus Christ

2 Peter 1:1 See also Romans 1:1; 1 Corinthians 4:1; 2 Corinthians 11:23; Philippians 1:1; Titus 1:1

They were servants of the church

2 Corinthians 13:4 See also Romans 15:25; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Corinthians 11:8; 1 Peter 5:1-3

They were the foundations of the church

Ephesians 2:20 Probably a reference to the apostolic preaching. The absence of the article before “prophets” suggests that “the apostles and prophets” represents one group of people, not two. See also 1 Corinthians 12:28; Galatians 2:9; Jude 17 the prophetic ministry of the apostles

They preached the gospel

Romans 1:1-5 See also Mark 16:20; Romans 15:19-20; 1 Corinthians 1:17; Galatians 1:15-16

They were guardians and teachers of the truth

They founded churches

1 Corinthians 9:1-2 See also 1 Corinthians 3:5-6,10

They were authority figures within the church

Acts 6:2-6 The apostles took the initiative. Whilst they did not themselves appoint the Seven, they confirmed their appointment.

They were called to suffer

2 Timothy 1:11-12 See also Acts 5:18; 1 Corinthians 4:9; 2 Corinthians 11:23-29

They were empowered by the Spirit

They were able to bestow the Spirit

Acts 8:14-18 Peter and John officially induct Samaritans as members of the body of Christ; Acts 19:6