What is the role of an apostle today? Are they missionaries? Are they modern-day apostles? Is this biblical?
~ John G, Nalasopara
Thank you for this insightful and necessary question. It touches the core of how we understand apostolic ministry in our time. Let us approach this in the light of Scripture and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, with reverence and clarity.
What Is the Role of an Apostle Today? #
The word “apostle” comes from the Greek word apostolos (ἀπόστολος, Strong’s G652), which means “one who is sent”, a messenger or delegate, specifically commissioned with authority.
“He gave some as apostles…”
(Ephesians 4:11 AMP)
Understanding the Apostolic Role: #
| Aspect | Biblical Pattern | Implication Today |
|---|---|---|
| Origin of the title | Apostolos = sent one | An apostle is not self-appointed but sent by Christ |
| Function | Establish, govern, and father churches (Acts 14:21-23; 1 Cor. 4:15) | Apostles lay foundations, raise leaders, expound Christ, reveal Christ and maintain doctrine |
| Authority | Appointed by Christ (Gal. 1:1) | Apostolic authority flows from Christ, not denomination |
| Motive | Servanthood and suffering (1 Cor. 4:9-13) | Apostles are humble bond servants, not celebrities |
| Signs | Endurance, miracles, spiritual fruit (2 Cor. 12:12) | Their lives manifest spiritual authority and kingdom demonstration |
Are Apostles the Same as Missionaries? #
While apostles and missionaries both involve being “sent,” the two are not identical.
| Missionary | Apostle |
|---|---|
| Sent by a church organisation | Sent directly by the Spirit of Christ |
| Often focuses on evangelism and service | Lays foundations, governs churches, equips leaders |
| May not have governing authority | Carries governmental grace in the Spirit |
| A modern term not found in the Bible | A biblical office (Ephesians 4:11) established by Christ |
So, while many apostles are missionary in spirit, not all missionaries are apostolic in calling.
Are Modern Apostles Scriptural? #
Yes — if understood rightly.
“An apostle is not one who went, but one who was sent.”
“And His gifts to the church were varied… some as apostles [special messengers, representatives]…”
(Ephesians 4:11 AMP)
Paul explains that the five-fold ministry — apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers — is given “until we all reach oneness in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man…” (Ephesians 4:13, AMP). Since the Church has not yet reached full maturity, these roles remain valid today.
However, a caution must be added: not all who bear the title “apostle” are truly sent by God. Jesus Himself warned:
“You have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them to be liars.”
(Revelation 2:2 AMP)
Therefore, the fruit of their life and ministry, not the title, is the true evidence.
Biblical Marks of a True Apostle #
| Mark | Scripture | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Sent by God | Galatians 1:1 | Not self-appointed |
| Spiritual authority | 2 Corinthians 10:8 | Carries weight in the Spirit |
| Lays foundations | 1 Corinthians 3:10 | Begins and fathers churches |
| Sacrificial life | 1 Corinthians 4:9–13 | Suffers and serves with humility |
| Fruitful ministry | 2 Corinthians 12:12 | Demonstrates power and endurance |
Apostolic Succession vs. Apostolic Continuation #
The Roman Catholic view holds that apostolic succession (through bishops) preserves the office. But the biblical view shows that the apostolic ministry continues wherever Christ still sends and appoints.
“True apostles carry Christ’s authority, not a title on a business card.”
No Scripture says apostles ended with the original twelve. Even beyond the Twelve, we read of:
- Paul – “not of the Twelve” yet chief apostle to the Gentiles (Rom. 1:1)
- Barnabas – called an apostle (Acts 14:14)
- James (the Lord’s brother) – not among the original Twelve (Gal. 1:19)
- Andronicus and Junia – “outstanding among the apostles” (Rom. 16:7)
These prove that apostleship continued beyond the early Twelve.
Final Thoughts #
So yes, apostles exist today — not in title at all, but in true function and anointing. They are:
- Sent by Christ
- Graced to build and father
- Bear the marks of suffering and humility
- Continue the pattern of the early Church in Spirit and truth
Let us not reject apostleship because of false examples. Neither should we receive anyone as an apostle without discerning their calling, fruit, and spirit.
Hope this helps, John. May the Lord continue to lead you into all truth.
In Christ,
Shaliach.
