The Spiritual Gift of Apostle
Speaking Gift — Ephesians 4:11 — And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.
ἀπόστολος (ap-os’-tol-os) — delegate, chosen, preacher, envoy, commission. One sent forth on a mission by God.
The Spiritual Gift of Apostle as Defined
The Apostle is a delegate of God — chosen, commissioned, and sent. Paul describes himself in Romans 1:1 as called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God. The gift carries authority not self-appointed but divinely assigned.
- Delegate of God — ROM 1:1
- Chosen by God — EPH 1:1, LUK 6:13
- Preacher of God — ACS 17:18
- Envoy of God — ACS 1:22, 1CO 9:1
The Spiritual Gift of Apostle as Named
Jesus chose twelve and named them apostles (LUK 6:13). Paul was the last chosen, as one born out of due time (1CO 15:8). The twelve included fishermen, a tax collector, and men from every walk of life — chosen by God, not by men.
The Spiritual Gift of Apostle as Ministers
The Apostle carries authority (MAT 16:15-20), power over spiritual opposition (MAR 3:14-15), and operates in healing (ACS 3:6) and miracles (ACS 9:11). The gift establishes, plants, and strengthens the Church across geographic and cultural boundaries.
Serving in The Spiritual Gift of Apostle
Avoid self-appointment. Avoid using authority for personal gain. Avoid operating independently of the local church. The Apostle serves the Body — the Body does not serve the Apostle.