APOSTLE
Definition
The Christian Meaning and Imagery of “Apostle”
In Christianity, an apostle is literally one who is “sent out” (from the Greek apostolos, meaning messenger or one sent with authority). Apostles are messengers and pioneers of the Gospel, chosen by Christ to establish the Church, teach, guide, and bear witness to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
The imagery of the apostle conveys mission, authority, pioneering leadership, witness, and spiritual empowerment. Apostles are seen as both founders and guardians of Christian faith and practice.
1. Apostles as “Sent Ones”
The core meaning of apostleship emphasizes being sent by God with authority and purpose.
John 20:21 (NIV)
Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
This highlights divine commissioning, mission, and responsibility.
2. Apostles as Witnesses of Christ
Apostles bear witness to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
This emphasizes truth-bearing, integrity, and personal testimony.
3. Apostles as Church Founders
Apostles were foundational in planting and guiding early Christian communities.
Colossians 2:6–7 (NIV)
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
This conveys leadership, pioneering work, and foundational authority.
4. Apostles as Teachers and Interpreters of Truth
Apostles were entrusted with teaching and clarifying God’s revelation.
Romans 1:16 (NIV)
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
This emphasizes doctrine, instruction, and spiritual authority.
5. Apostles as Servants and Shepherds
Although apostles carried authority, they exercised it through service.
Mark 10:45 (NIV)
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
This highlights servant-leadership, humility, and care.
6. Apostles as Witnesses to the Resurrection
Apostolic authority was grounded in the reality of the risen Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:5 (NIV)
And that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.
This conveys credibility, authenticity, and divine empowerment.
7. Apostles as Spirit-Empowered Leaders
Apostles did not act in human strength, but through the Holy Spirit.
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…
This emphasizes empowerment, boldness, and divine guidance.
8. Apostles as Pioneers of the Gospel
Apostles carried the Gospel into new regions, often at great personal cost.
1 Corinthians 9:22 (NIV)
I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.
This symbolizes mission, courage, and pioneering faith.
9. Apostles as Guardians of Doctrine
Apostles safeguarded the Gospel against distortion.
2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
This emphasizes doctrinal fidelity and spiritual oversight.
10. Apostles as Exemplars for All Believers
Apostles modelled faithful obedience and Christ-centred living.
1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV)
Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
This highlights discipleship, witness, and exemplary faith.
Summary: What “Apostle” Means in Christianity
Christian imagery of an apostle represents:
✔ One sent by Christ with divine authority
✔ Eyewitness and bearer of truth about Christ
✔ Founder and guide of Christian communities
✔ Teacher and interpreter of God’s Word
✔ Servant-leader marked by humility
✔ Spirit-empowered for mission
✔ Pioneer of the Gospel
✔ Guardian of sound doctrine
✔ Model of faith, courage, and obedience
✔ Witness to the resurrection
Biblical Imagery & Metaphors
A messenger carrying light
A pioneer opening new paths
A builder laying foundations
In Daily Faith
Apostles set the pattern of obedience, teaching, courage, and faith for the early Church.
In Daily Life: Living Out Apostolic Faith Today
While not all believers hold the office of apostle, all Christians are sent people, called to live with purpose, witness, and faithfulness.
1. Live as One Who Is Sent
Jesus sends His followers into the world with intention and purpose. Everyday spaces become places of mission.
John 20:21 (NIV)
Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
Daily Practice
See your home, workplace, and community as your mission field.
Live intentionally, knowing God has placed you where you are for a reason.
Encouragement:
You are not sent alone—Christ goes before you and sends you in peace.
2. Be a Witness Through Word and Life
Christian witness is both spoken and lived. God uses testimony and daily faithfulness to reveal Christ to others.
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Daily Practice
Share what Christ has done in your life when opportunities arise.
Let your actions reflect the truth you confess.
Encouragement:
God uses ordinary faithfulness to make His Gospel visible.
3. Help Build and Strengthen the Church
Believers are called to contribute to the health, unity, and growth of Christ’s body.
Colossians 2:6–7 (NIV)
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Daily Practice
Encourage other believers through words and actions.
Commit to spiritual growth, service, and participation in the life of the Church.
Encouragement:
Every act of faithfulness strengthens Christ’s body more than you realize.
4. Ground Yourself in Truth
Apostolic faith is rooted in truth that anchors believers amid confusion and change.
2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NIV)
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Daily Practice
Study Scripture regularly and thoughtfully.
Guard your beliefs with humility, discernment, and prayer.
Encouragement:
Truth anchors you when the world shifts and uncertainty grows.
5. Rely on the Power of the Holy Spirit
Christian life and witness are sustained not by human strength, but by God’s Spirit.
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Daily Practice
Pray daily for the Spirit’s guidance, wisdom, and courage.
Step forward in obedience, trusting God for strength beyond your own.
Encouragement:
God’s power is made known through willing, dependent obedience.
6. Live in the Power of the Resurrection
Apostles lived and ministered in light of the resurrection. Their courage, endurance, and hope flowed from the certainty that Christ is alive.
1 Corinthians 15:5 (NIV)
and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.
Daily Practice
Face challenges with resurrection confidence. When you encounter discouragement, suffering, or fear, remind yourself that Christ has conquered sin and death.
Let resurrection hope shape your perspective. View setbacks and losses through the lens of eternal victory rather than temporary defeat.
Encouragement:
Because Christ is risen, no situation is beyond redemption, and no obedience is ever wasted.
7. Depend on the Holy Spirit Daily
Apostolic ministry was never carried out in human strength alone. The Holy Spirit empowered, guided, and sustained the apostles in every aspect of their mission.
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Daily Practice
Begin each day in dependence. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words, decisions, and actions.
Walk attentively. Pay attention to promptings that lead you toward love, courage, truth, and obedience.
Encouragement:
You are not expected to live the Christian life alone—God’s Spirit supplies strength where yours runs out.
8. Be Willing to Pioneer Faithfully
Apostles often entered unfamiliar territory, both geographically and spiritually. Faithfulness sometimes meant stepping into discomfort or uncertainty.
1 Corinthians 9:22 (NIV)
I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.
Daily Practice
Step beyond comfort. Be open to serving, loving, or speaking where it feels unfamiliar or costly.
Adapt without compromise. Learn how to communicate truth wisely and graciously in different contexts while remaining faithful to the Gospel.
Encouragement:
God often does His deepest work when you are willing to trust Him beyond what feels safe.
9. Guard Truth with Humility and Love
Apostles were entrusted with preserving the integrity of the Gospel. This responsibility continues for believers today.
2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Daily Practice
Stay rooted in Scripture. Regular study helps guard against confusion, distortion, or spiritual drift.
Speak truth with grace. When addressing difficult topics, aim to reflect both conviction and compassion.
Encouragement:
Faithfulness to truth protects both your faith and the faith of those around you.
10. Live as an Example of Faithful Obedience
Apostles did not merely teach the faith—they lived it visibly. Their lives reinforced their message.
1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV)
Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
Daily Practice
Practice integrity. Let your private life align with your public faith.
Encourage by example. Your steady obedience, kindness, and perseverance may strengthen others more than you realize.
Encouragement:
God uses ordinary faithfulness to produce extraordinary impact.
Conclusion: Living the Apostolic Calling Today
While the office of apostle was unique in the early Church, the apostolic pattern remains. Every believer is sent, empowered by the Spirit, grounded in truth, and called to live as a faithful witness to Christ.
By embracing apostolic qualities—mission, courage, humility, obedience, and hope—you participate in God’s ongoing work of building His Church and making Christ known in the world.
You are sent.
You are empowered.
You are part of God’s mission.
Scripture References
Matthew 10:2–4 (NIV)
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
Romans 1:1 (NIV)