The Bible outlines the role of apostles in the early church, but what about today? There are differing views on whether apostleship is a calling that continues. Let’s explore what Scripture says about apostles and how it might apply to modern believers and church leadership.
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What Does The Bible Say About modern day apostles
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 everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
This verse emphasizes the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples, which still applies to believers today. Just like the apostles were sent out to make disciples, modern-day apostles are called to spread the Gospel to all nations, baptize new believers, and teach them the commandments of Jesus. It is a reminder that the mission of the original apostles continues through the Church today, as we are empowered by the presence of Christ through the Holy Spirit.
As modern-day apostles, we are commissioned to actively engage with the world and share the good news of Jesus Christ. This involves not only proclaiming the Gospel but also demonstrating it through our actions and lifestyle. We have the assurance that Jesus is with us always, guiding and empowering us to fulfill our apostolic calling.
Ephesians 4:11-13
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”
This verse highlights the role of apostles in the context of the fivefold ministry. Modern-day apostles are part of the equipping process and are essential for the growth and maturity of the body of Christ. They have a unique function in building up believers to reach unity in faith and knowledge of Jesus, ultimately leading to becoming mature and attaining the fullness of Christ.
As apostles, we are called to provide guidance, teaching, and mentorship to help believers develop their gifts and fulfill their purpose within the Church. Our role is not just to lead but to equip others for service, empowering the body of Christ to function effectively and achieve the highest level of spiritual maturity.
Romans 10:14-15
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'”
This verse emphasizes the vital role of modern-day apostles in evangelism. Like the early apostles, we are sent with a mandate to proclaim the Gospel and make Jesus known to those who have not heard. We understand that people cannot believe in someone they have not heard about, and they cannot hear without someone being sent to preach.
As apostles, we carry the responsibility of being heralds of good news, proclaiming the message of salvation, and facilitating encounters with Jesus Christ. Our feet are considered beautiful because we willingly go to the unreached and share the love of God, bringing hope and salvation to those who are in darkness.
Acts 1:8
“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.”
In this verse, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the power they will receive through the Holy Spirit. As modern-day apostles, we are also recipients of this power, enabling us to be effective witnesses for Christ. We are called to share the Gospel in our local communities, regions, and even to the farthest corners of the earth.
The Holy Spirit empowers us to testify about Jesus, not only through words but also through our lives. Our commission as apostles extends beyond geographical boundaries, reaching people from all walks of life and diverse cultures. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can impact individuals, societies, and nations with the transformative message of the Gospel.
2 Corinthians 12:12
“I persevered in demonstrating among you the marks of a true apostle, including signs, wonders, and miracles.”
Paul, in this verse, highlights the distinguishing characteristics of a genuine apostle. Modern-day apostles are also marked by the signs, wonders, and miracles that accompany their ministry. These miraculous manifestations serve as evidence of God’s power and the authenticity of the apostolic calling.
As apostles, we are called to operate in the supernatural realm, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us to bring about supernatural manifestations of God’s power. Signs, wonders, and miracles serve as an affirmation of the message of Christ and draw people to Him.
1 Corinthians 9:2
“Even though I may not be an apostle to others, surely I am to you! For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.”
In this verse, Paul affirms his apostolic authority and ministry to the Corinthians. Modern-day apostles also have specific spheres of influence and responsibility where their apostleship is evident and recognized. It is through the impact and transformation of the lives of those they have reached and discipled that the seal of their apostleship is made known.
As apostles, our apostolic authority is not self-proclaimed, but it is revealed through the fruit of our ministry and the lives of those we have touched. Our apostleship is authenticated by the spiritual growth, journeys of faith, and transformation experienced by those under our leadership and mentorship.
Galatians 2:8
“For God, who was at work in Peter as an apostle to the Jews, was also at work in me as an apostle to the Gentiles.”
Paul, in this verse, acknowledges the diversity of apostolic assignments. Just like Peter was called to be an apostle to the Jews, modern-day apostles are specifically assigned by God to different groups, cultures, or demographics. This diversity in apostolic callings reflects God’s heart for reaching every people group with the Gospel.
As apostles, our focus might be directed toward specific groups or regions, and our ministry may be tailored to meet the unique needs and challenges of those we are called to. Our apostolic assignments are strategic, bringing the transformative power of the Gospel to different segments of society and fulfilling God’s plan for the expansion of His kingdom.
Acts 14:21-22
“They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. ‘We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,’ they said.”
This passage describes how Paul and Barnabas fulfilled their apostolic calling by preaching the Gospel, making disciples, and strengthening existing believers. Modern-day apostles also face challenges and hardships as they fulfill their mandate to share the Gospel and build up the body of Christ.
As apostles, we are called to persevere in the face of opposition and difficulties, knowing that the kingdom of God is advanced through perseverance. We are entrusted with the task of not only winning souls but also nurturing and encouraging believers to remain true to their faith, especially in times of trials and tribulations.
2 Corinthians 6:4-5
“Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights, and hunger.”
Paul’s words in this verse highlight the challenges and sacrifices that apostles often face in their service to God. Modern-day apostles, like Paul, may also encounter various forms of opposition, persecution, and hardships as they fulfill their apostolic calling.
As apostles, we are called to be servants of God who endure through all kinds of trials and difficulties. We must be willing to persevere in the face of physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges, knowing that our commitment to God’s mission requires sacrifice and steadfastness.
1 Thessalonians 2:7-8
“Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.”
In this verse, Paul illustrates the heart of an apostle who is not only concerned with sharing the message of the Gospel, but also intimately cares for the spiritual well-being of those they lead. Modern-day apostles are called to love and sacrificially invest in the lives of those under their care.
As apostles, we are not solely focused on building large ministries or preaching from a distance, but we are called to build deep, personal relationships with those we lead. Just as a nursing mother loves and nurtures her children, apostles are called to love, nurture, and disciple believers, sharing not only the Gospel but also our lives as an expression of Christ’s love.
1 Corinthians 3:10
“By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.”
Paul, in this verse, highlights the responsibility of an apostle to lay a solid foundation upon which others can build. Modern-day apostles are entrusted with the task of establishing strong spiritual foundations within the lives of believers, churches, and ministries.
As apostles, we must be intentional and diligent in the work we do, ensuring that we build with care. We are committed to imparting the truth of God’s Word and instilling core biblical principles that will enable growth, maturity, and fruitfulness in the lives of those we disciple and mentor.
1 Corinthians 4:9
“For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings.”
In this verse, Paul describes how apostles are often viewed as a spectacle to the world, facing trials and challenges for the sake of the Gospel. Modern-day apostles may also encounter opposition, criticism, and even persecution as they stand for the truth and advance God’s kingdom.
As apostles, we must be willing to embrace the cost of discipleship, understanding that our commitment to Christ may result in rejection or mistreatment. Our lives are a testimony to the world, and through our perseverance and faithfulness, we bring glory to God and inspire others to stand firm in their own faith.
2 Timothy 1:11
“And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher.”
Paul, in this verse, identifies himself as a herald, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gospel. Modern-day apostles, like Paul, also have a multifaceted role in proclaiming the message of Christ, establishing churches, and instructing believers in the truth of God’s Word.
As apostles, we are called to be effective communicators, boldly heralding the Gospel, and equipping believers with sound doctrine and spiritual understanding. Our teaching ministry plays a vital role in the growth and development of individuals, churches, and the body of Christ as a whole.
1 Peter 4:11
“If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of speaking and serving with the authority and strength that comes from God. Modern-day apostles are called to speak the Word of God boldly and to serve with humility, relying on God’s provision and power to accomplish His purposes.
As apostles, our words should carry the weight of divine authority, speaking the truth in love and proclaiming the Gospel with conviction. Our service should be fueled by the strength and grace that God supplies, ultimately bringing glory to Him and pointing others to Jesus Christ as the source of all power and praise.
2 Timothy 2:2
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
In this verse, Paul instructs Timothy to reproduce the teachings he received and entrust them to faithful individuals who will continue the process of teaching and equipping others. Modern-day apostles are called to raise and release a new generation of leaders who will carry on the work of the Gospel.
As apostles, we are committed to disciple-making, not only personally mentoring others but also empowering them to mentor and teach new disciples. Our goal is to see a multiplication effect take place, where the knowledge and truth of God’s Word are passed on from one generation to the next, ensuring the growth and sustainability of the Church.
Acts 5:42
“Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.”
This verse describes the unwavering commitment of the early apostles to continually teach and preach the Gospel. Modern-day apostles are called to a similar level of dedication, persistently sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and equipping believers in both public and intimate settings.
As apostles, we recognize the importance of teaching and proclaiming the Gospel in various contexts. Whether it be within the confines of a church building or in the more intimate spaces of homes and small groups, we are driven by a passion to make disciples and ensure that the message of salvation reaches every individual.
Acts 16:9-10
“During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’ After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.”
In this passage, Paul receives a specific call from God to preach the Gospel in Macedonia. Modern-day apostles similarly seek and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in fulfilling their apostolic assignments.
As apostles, we must be attuned to the voice of God, open to divine guidance, and obedient to His direction. Our ministry is marked by a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s promptings, enabling us to discern where God is calling us to take the message of salvation and bring transformation to individuals, communities, and nations.
1 Corinthians 15:58
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
This verse encourages believers to be steadfast and unwavering in their commitment to the work of the Lord. Modern-day apostles, as leaders, exemplify this tenacity and inspire others to persevere in their own service to God.
As apostles, we must model a lifestyle of faithfulness and dedication, demonstrating the fruitfulness and eternal value of being fully devoted to the work of the Lord. We encourage others to stand firm, knowing that their labor for God is not in vain but will produce lasting impact and rewards in the kingdom of heaven.
Acts 20:24
“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”
In this verse, Paul expresses his single-minded dedication to fulfilling the task the Lord has given him, which is to testify to the good news of God’s grace. Modern-day apostles also have a deep sense of purpose and a relentless pursuit of fulfilling their God-given mission.
As apostles, we are willing to lay down our lives and personal desires for the sake of the Gospel. Our primary aim is to faithfully complete the task assigned to us, which includes testifying to the grace of God and making disciples. We find fulfillment and joy in knowing that we have been entrusted with such a significant assignment.
1 Corinthians 9:22-23
“To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”
Paul’s words in this verse demonstrate his deep commitment to reaching people from all walks of life with the Gospel. Modern-day apostles similarly adopt a flexible and adaptable approach to effectively share the message of salvation with diverse individuals and communities.
As apostles, we recognize the importance of contextualizing the Gospel message without compromising its truth. We are willing to adapt our methods and communication styles to connect with people, understanding that our ultimate goal is to see souls saved and share in the blessings of the Gospel.
2 Corinthians 2:14
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere.”
In this verse, Paul describes himself and fellow believers as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession, spreading the knowledge of Him everywhere they go. Modern-day apostles are enlisted in this divine procession, bringing the fragrance of Christ’s presence and influence to those around them.
As apostles, we have the privilege of being led by God and being carriers of His divine fragrance. Our lives, words, and actions should exude the aroma of Christ’s love, grace, and power, impacting the lives of individuals and permeating the societies in which we live.
2 Timothy 4:5
“But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.”
Paul’s exhortation to Timothy in this verse serves as a reminder for modern-day apostles to stay focused, persevere in the face of challenges, and remain faithful in carrying out all the responsibilities of their ministry.
As apostles, we must maintain clarity of mind and purpose, regardless of the circumstances we encounter. We navigate through hardships, engage in the work of evangelism, and faithfully fulfill each aspect of our apostolic calling. Through our steadfastness and commitment, we leave a lasting impact on the lives of others and advance the kingdom of God.
Colossians 1:28-29
“He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.”
Paul’s words in this verse illustrate his determination and passion to present every believer mature in Christ. Modern-day apostles share this same fervor, striving to disciple and equip believers to reach their full potential in Christ.
As apostles, we are committed to proclaiming and teaching the truth of God’s Word with wisdom and understanding. We contend tirelessly, relying on the power of Christ working within us, to bring about the spiritual growth and maturity of those under our care.