1. Question
Do apostles still exist today as part of the Church’s ministry, or was the apostolic office limited to the original Twelve and Paul? How should the title “apostle” be understood in contemporary Christianity?
2. Definitions and Background
The term apostle comes from the Greek word ἀπόστολος (apostolos), meaning “one who is sent.” In the New Testament, this term is used in at least three ways:
| Usage | Description |
|---|---|
| The Twelve | Personally appointed disciples of Jesus with unique foundational authority (e.g. Peter, John) |
| Paul | A distinct apostle, appointed by the risen Christ (Galatians 1:1), often seen as a “13th apostle” |
| Other Sent Ones | Individuals such as Barnabas (Acts 14:14), James (Galatians 1:19), and possibly Junia (Romans 16:7) who exercised apostolic function |
3. Classical View: Foundational Apostles Only
3.1 Scriptural Basis
- Ephesians 2:20 – The Church is “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets.”
- Revelation 21:14 – The New Jerusalem has “twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.”
- Acts 1:21–22 – Requirements for replacing Judas included being an eyewitness of Jesus’ resurrection.
These passages suggest that the original apostolic office was unique and unrepeatable, tied to personal appointment by Christ and the laying of the Church’s doctrinal foundation.
3.2 Role in Canon Formation
The apostles’ teachings became the New Testament canon, a closed collection of inspired Scripture. Their foundational role was thus non-continuing in most historic Christian views.
4. Continuationist View: Functional Apostleship Continues
4.1 Broader Usage in the NT
- Barnabas is called an apostle in Acts 14:14.
- Epaphroditus is referred to as a “messenger” (apostolos) in Philippians 2:25.
- Junia is called “outstanding among the apostles” in Romans 16:7 (interpretation debated).
This supports the idea that there was a broader, functional category of apostles beyond the Twelve and Paul.
4.2 Modern Apostleship in Charismatic Traditions
Many Pentecostal and Charismatic movements argue that:
- Apostleship continues as a spiritual gift (cf. Ephesians 4:11–13).
- Modern apostles are church planters, movement leaders, missionaries, or spiritual fathers.
- The apostolic function includes governance, oversight, and doctrinal guidance, but not adding to Scripture.
Prominent examples:
- New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) asserts that God is restoring apostles to lead the Church in the end times.
- Apostolic Church UK and similar groups use the term for senior ministers with oversight responsibility.
5. Summary of Views
| View | Apostles Today? | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Cessationist | No | Apostles were foundational, eyewitnesses of Christ (Eph. 2:20; Acts 1) |
| Continuationist (Moderate) | Yes, functionally | Broader apostolic roles (Barnabas, Junia); Eph. 4:11 |
| Continuationist (Full) | Yes, with authority | Modern apostles lead global Church movements (e.g. NAR) |
6. Key Theological Concerns
6.1 Biblical Authority
- Any claim to apostleship must not override Scripture.
- Galatians 1:8 warns against contradictory teaching—even from an “angel.”
6.2 Abuse and Control
- History has seen spiritual abuse by self-proclaimed apostles demanding unquestioned obedience.
- The New Testament urges testing of claims (1 John 4:1).
6.3 Ecclesial Unity
- Diverging views on apostleship have caused denominational division.
- Some churches recognise apostolic function but avoid the title to reduce confusion.
7. Practical Assessment Criteria for Modern “Apostles”
| Test | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Biblical fidelity | Teaches sound doctrine in line with Scripture |
| Servant leadership | Models humility, not authoritarianism (2 Cor. 10–11) |
| Missional fruitfulness | Church planting, discipleship, evangelism |
| Community affirmation | Recognised by the wider Church, not self-appointed |
8. Conclusion
The apostolic office, as held by the Twelve and Paul, was foundational, non-repeatable, and essential to the establishment of Christian doctrine and the Church. However, apostolic function, understood as pioneering leadership or mission-based oversight, may continue today under the authority of Scripture.
Whether or not the title “apostle” should be used remains theologically contested and depends on how it is defined, exercised, and guarded from error.
9. References
- Köstenberger, A. J., & O’Brien, P. T. (2001). Salvation to the Ends of the Earth. IVP.
- Carson, D. A. (1996). Showing the Spirit. Baker.
- Grudem, W. (1994). Systematic Theology. IVP.
- Wagner, C. P. (2004). Apostles Today. Regal Books.
- Wright, N. T. (2013). Paul and the Faithfulness of God. SPCK.