In its original form, the word apostle simply means a messenger. For example, if we send a delegate to represent us at the Republican National Convention, our representative is on a mission for us. We want her to carry our views and speak before committees, important people, and in every gathering she can. Our “missionary” is there to convert others to our way of thinking.
She has become, in the most literal sense, our apostle.
In actuality, the word has shifted over the centuries to a much more specific meaning. We would no more call our delegate to the Republican National Convention our apostle than we would describe our hometown as a dirt pile. (Yes, the original meaning of the word “town” is a dirt embankment. It comes from the word “tun.”)
Today, when we speak of apostles, we mean specifically the twelve men who traveled with, ate with, and lived with Jesus during the final years of his ministry. They lived out the definition of the word, for they became his messengers to the world, carrying the revelation of Jesus the Christ to the unbelievers. They were Christ’s “delegates” designated to speak before groups, important people, and in every situation they could.
They were given the responsibility to convert others to their way of thinking.
Hebrews 3:1 gives us our mission:
“Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession.”
From the beginning the label was already attached to the believers. To be an apostle was a badge to wear proudly.
Acts 2:38 shows an apostle at his best:
“And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’ ”
Peter had no difficulties in throwing out the meat of his message. He got to the point and drew people to Jesus.
1 John 5:19 provides our motivation:
“We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.”
If we do not step out for Christ, who will override the voice of the devil and his evil minions? Our commitment is what will carry the vote when others are deciding on the course of their lives.
James 4:7 is our source of strength:
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
Therein is the power of God. It flows from the Father above, and it is in him that we will find our strength.
Just as at the Republican National Convention, our purpose is to win over the crowd. We have a candidate, and our job is to lift him high for others to see. We want everyone on our side. We want to live in a world of apostles.
We are delegates for the Most High God. There is never a moment we don’t represent him.
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