------------------------------------------------------- # Apostolic Calling in the New Testament and Church History **Cross Reference**: #apostolic_ministry, #new_testament, #church_history, #spiritual_calling --- ## Introduction to Apostolic Calling The concept of the [[Apostolic calling]] is central to the New Testament and serves as a foundation for the establishment and growth of the [[Church]]. An apostolic calling is the divine commission given to specific individuals to preach the gospel, establish churches, and bear witness to Christ’s resurrection. This calling is exemplified by the original apostles and continues to influence church leadership and missionary efforts throughout history. --- ## Apostolic Calling in the New Testament ### The Appointment of the Twelve The apostolic calling in the New Testament begins with Jesus appointing the twelve apostles. This event is described in ([Mark 3:13–19](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+3.13-19&version=AMP)), where Jesus selects the twelve to be with Him, to preach, and to have authority over demons. These men were chosen not only for their proximity to Christ but also for their role as foundational leaders of the [[Church]]. Key features of this calling include: 1. **Witness to Christ**: Apostles were called to bear witness to Christ’s life, death, and resurrection ([Acts 1:21–22](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+1.21-22&version=AMP)). 2. **Divine Commission**: Their authority was not self-appointed but given by Christ ([Matthew 28:19–20](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+28.19-20&version=AMP)). ### The Apostolic Qualifications The criteria for apostleship were specific, as seen in the replacement of Judas with Matthias in ([Acts 1:21–26](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+1.21-26&version=AMP)). These qualifications included: - Being a witness to Jesus’ ministry from His baptism to His resurrection. - Being chosen through divine guidance, signified by prayer and the casting of lots. Paul’s apostleship, however, reflects a unique aspect of the calling. Although he did not meet the same qualifications, he was called directly by the risen Christ on the road to Damascus ([Acts 9:3–6](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+9.3-6&version=AMP)). --- ## Apostolic Authority and Mission ### Authority to Preach and Teach Apostles were entrusted with the authority to preach the gospel and teach doctrine. Paul’s instructions to Timothy in ([2 Timothy 4:2](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+4.2&version=AMP)) exemplify this teaching mandate: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage.” ### Authority in Signs and Wonders The New Testament frequently associates apostles with signs and wonders, authenticating their divine commission. For instance, ([Acts 5:12](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+5.12&version=AMP)) describes the apostles performing many miracles among the people. Paul, too, defends his apostleship by citing the signs, wonders, and mighty works that accompanied his ministry ([2 Corinthians 12:12](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+12.12&version=AMP)). ### The Global Mission The apostolic calling extended beyond Israel to encompass all nations. The Great Commission in ([Matthew 28:19–20](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+28.19-20&version=AMP)) exemplifies this universal mission. Apostles like Paul pioneered missionary journeys to spread the gospel to Gentile nations ([Romans 1:5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+1.5&version=AMP)). --- ## Apostolic Calling in Church History ### The Early Church The apostolic calling significantly influenced the structure and theology of the early church. The apostles were regarded as the foundation of the [[Church]], with Christ as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+2.20&version=AMP)). Their teachings were preserved through Scripture and the establishment of apostolic tradition. #### Apostolic Fathers Leaders such as Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch are often referred to as the Apostolic Fathers, having been directly influenced by the apostles or their immediate successors. Their writings emphasize the continuity of apostolic teaching and authority. ### Medieval and Reformation Eras During the medieval period, the concept of apostolic succession emerged, asserting that bishops inherit the authority of the apostles. This doctrine was challenged during the Reformation, with Reformers emphasizing [[Sola Scriptura]] and rejecting the hierarchical interpretation of apostolic authority. ### Modern Movements In contemporary times, certain Christian traditions, such as the Charismatic movement, have revived the concept of apostolic calling, emphasizing the role of apostles in church planting and spiritual leadership. --- ## Theological Themes in Apostolic Calling ### Christ as the Source of Apostolic Authority The apostolic calling is inseparable from Christ’s authority. In ([John 20:21](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20.21&version=AMP)), Jesus declares, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” This divine sending affirms that apostles act as representatives of Christ. ### The Holy Spirit and Apostolic Empowerment The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in equipping apostles for their mission. At Pentecost, the apostles were filled with the Spirit, enabling them to preach with boldness and perform miracles ([Acts 2:1–4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+2.1-4&version=AMP)). ### Apostolic Suffering Apostolic calling often involved suffering and persecution. Paul reflects on this reality in ([2 Corinthians 11:23–28](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+11.23-28&version=AMP)), recounting his hardships as evidence of his faithfulness to Christ. --- ## Practical Implications of Apostolic Calling ### Leadership in the Church The apostolic calling sets a model for church leadership characterized by service, teaching, and a commitment to the gospel. Pastors and missionaries today draw inspiration from the apostles’ dedication to the mission of Christ. ### Faithful Witness Believers are called to emulate the apostles in bearing witness to Christ. As Peter writes in ([1 Peter 3:15](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+3.15&version=AMP)), Christians should always be prepared to give an answer for their hope. --- ## Related Concepts - [[Apostolic Authority]] - [[Great Commission]] - [[Church Leadership]] - [[Missionary Work]] ==Donations Accepted== ![[qrcode 1.png]]