The role of apostleship is a foundational element in the New Testament, serving as a critical component in the establishment and expansion of the early Christian Church. The term "apostle" is derived from the Greek word "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent out." This designation is primarily applied to the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus Christ, as well as to Paul, who was later called to be an apostle to the Gentiles.

Selection and Commissioning

The apostles were personally selected by Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. In the Gospel of Mark, it is recorded, "He appointed twelve, whom He named apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons" (Mark 3:14-15). This selection underscores the divine authority and purpose bestowed upon the apostles, as they were chosen to be direct witnesses of Christ's life, death, and resurrection.

Authority and Function

The apostles were endowed with unique authority to teach, perform miracles, and establish church doctrine. In the Book of Acts, the apostles are depicted as leaders who guide the early Church through the power of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:42 states, "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer" . This passage highlights the centrality of apostolic teaching in the life of the early Christian community.

The apostolic authority is further emphasized in the writings of Paul, who asserts his own apostleship by divine calling. In Galatians 1:1, Paul writes, "Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead" . This declaration affirms that apostleship is not a human appointment but a divine commission.

Witnesses of the Resurrection

A key qualification for apostleship was being a witness to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Acts 1:22, Peter emphasizes the necessity of choosing a replacement for Judas Iscariot, stating, "beginning from John’s baptism until the day Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection" . This requirement underscores the apostles' role as primary witnesses to the central event of the Christian faith.

Mission to the Nations

The apostles were charged 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" . This mission to spread the Gospel to all nations was a defining aspect of apostolic work, as they laid the groundwork for the global Church.

Foundation of the Church

The apostles are described as the foundation of the Church, with Christ Himself as the cornerstone. Ephesians 2:20 states, "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone" . This metaphor illustrates the enduring impact of the apostles' teachings and their role in establishing the doctrinal and structural integrity of the Church.

Succession and Legacy

While the original apostles held a unique and unrepeatable office, their legacy continues through the apostolic teachings preserved in the New Testament. The early Church Fathers and subsequent Christian leaders have built upon this foundation, ensuring the continuity of apostolic doctrine and practice throughout the ages.

In summary, the role of apostleship is characterized by divine selection, authoritative teaching, and a mission to bear witness to the resurrection of Christ and to spread the Gospel to all nations. The apostles' foundational work remains integral to the life and doctrine of the Christian Church.