Apostleship is a foundational office within the Christian Church, established by Jesus Christ and integral to the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of early Christian communities. The term "apostle" is derived from the Greek word "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent out." This role is characterized by a divine commissioning, authority, and responsibility to teach, lead, and establish churches.

Biblical Foundation

The role of apostleship is first and foremost exemplified in the calling of the Twelve Apostles by Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus appoints the Twelve "that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach" (Mark 3:14). This dual purpose of companionship with Christ and being sent out to preach underscores the apostolic mission.

The apostles were given unique authority by Christ, as seen in Matthew 10:1: "Jesus called His twelve disciples to Him and gave them authority over unclean spirits, so that they could drive them out and heal every disease and sickness" . This authority was not self-derived but was a direct empowerment from Christ, enabling them to perform signs and wonders as a testament to the truth of their message.

Qualifications and Characteristics

The qualifications for apostleship are outlined in the New Testament, particularly in the selection of Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot. In Acts 1:21-22, Peter specifies that an apostle must be "one of the men who have accompanied us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from John's baptism until the day Jesus was taken up from us" . This requirement highlights the necessity of firsthand experience with Jesus' ministry and resurrection.

Apostles were also characterized by their role as witnesses to the resurrection of Christ. Paul, though not one of the original Twelve, defends his apostleship by emphasizing his encounter with the risen Christ: "Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?" (1 Corinthians 9:1). This encounter validated his authority and mission to the Gentiles.

Functions and Responsibilities

The apostles were tasked with several key responsibilities. Primarily, they were to preach the Gospel and make disciples of all nations, as commanded in the Great Commission: "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" (Matthew 28:19). This mission involved teaching, baptizing, and establishing churches.

Apostles also played a crucial role in maintaining doctrinal purity and unity within the early Church. They addressed theological disputes, as seen in the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15), and provided authoritative teaching and guidance through their epistles. Paul, for instance, wrote to the Corinthians to correct errors and provide instruction: "For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you" (1 Corinthians 11:23).

Legacy and Continuation

The role of apostleship, as established in the New Testament, laid the foundation for the Church's growth and doctrinal development. While the original apostles held a unique and unrepeatable office, their legacy continues through the Church's adherence to apostolic teaching and the ongoing mission to spread the Gospel.

The New Testament also speaks of others who were considered apostles beyond the Twelve, such as Barnabas (Acts 14:14) and James, the brother of Jesus (Galatians 1:19). This broader application of the term indicates a continuation of the apostolic mission through those who are called and sent by God to proclaim the Gospel and establish churches.

In summary, apostleship is a divinely appointed role characterized by authority, witness to the resurrection, and a mission to spread the Gospel and establish the Church. The apostles' teachings and writings continue to serve as a foundation for Christian faith and practice.