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Some churches call their leaders "apostles." What does that mean?

The word “apostle” means “one who is sent,” but in the New Testament (NT) this term carries weight for the early church leaders to whom it was applied. Today, some churches use this as a title or official office of the church, similar to the title “pastor” or “bishop.” Ephesians 4:11 teaches that God has given the church “apostles.”

Apostles in the New Testament

In the early church, apostleship was specific and authoritative. There were at least two requirements of a NT apostle: (1) they were chosen by Christ himself, and (2) they had physically seen Jesus. There were also two roles of a New Testament apostle: (1) they laid the foundation of the church, including (in some cases) writing God’s word, and (2) they confirmed their message with other apostles. (See Galatians 2.) Apostles in the NT were in some ways different from what some may call apostles today.

What about “Apostles” Today?

Churches that call their leaders “apostles” aren’t necessarily wrong in doing so, as long as they don’t pretend to equate that with the roles of the NT apostles. Churches where apostles elevate themselves over biblical teaching are in grave error. God’s word – the Bible – is the only truly authoritative source for faith and life today, and present-day church leaders cannot trump or change what God has already said.

[Related: What is a New Testament Apostle?]

Article for this topic by Daniel Martin.
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Key Points:

  • Apostles in the New Testament.
  • What about “apostles” today?

Quote This:

1 Corinthians 12:28 Here are some of the parts God has appointed for the church: first are apostles, second are prophets, third are teachers, then those who do miracles, those who have the gift of healing, those who can help others, those who have the gift of leadership, those who speak in unknown languages.

See Also: Church, New Testament

Talk About It
  1. What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. What does your church call its leaders? What do you think about using the term “apostle” today? Explain.
  3. Read Acts 9:1-9. How does this passage affect Paul’s claim to apostleship? How would his ministry have been affected if he had never seen Jesus? Explain.
  4. Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. How is the role of the Bible different from the role of spiritual leaders today?
  5. What would you say to someone who believes his or her church has an “apostle” who can speak with the same authority as the Bible itself – even if it means contradicting the Bible? Name some modern churches today that hold to that teaching.
  6. Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
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