Covenant Reformed News – November 2024 • Volume XX, Issue 7
This article provides a theological examination of the apostolic office in the New Testament, clarifying its nature, authority, and functions. It distinguishes the apostolic office from other church offices by explaining the apostles' unique authority in teaching by direct revelation, performing miracles, and their inclusive role encompassing other ministerial functions. The piece aims to correct widespread confusion about what constitutes an apostle in proper theological and ecclesiastical terms.
What Is the Apostolic Office? Though the word “apostle” is frequently used in Christian circles, there exists a lot of error and confusion regarding its true import and significance. Our English word “apostle” is a transliteration of a Greek verb which means “to send.” Thus an apostle is one who is sent by someone else. In a non-technical sense, anyone on any errand for another is an apostle. In its technical and theological sense, an apostle is one sent by the Lord Jesus Christ in the...