Should Modern Day Apostles Use the Title “Apostle?”
Should modern day apostles use the title “apostle?” (Note: The graphic to the left is attributed to apostolic-community-living)
The question is controversial. Some genuine modern day apostles use it, others refuse it. Some think the title apostle should never be applied to 21st century ministers, others bandy it about as commonplace. Let’s attempt some clarity in the matter.
First off, we can all agree that function supersedes title. We’ve all seen the danger and disgrace when someone assumes a title or position when he has nothing to back it up. We’ve also seen the beauty and humility of one who functions in a capacity, yet eschews the honors that could go with it.
Should modern day apostles use the title “apostle?” Let’s look at the pros and cons of both sides of the question.
The Cons: Should Modern Day Apostles Use the Title “Apostle?”
Anyone who claims or accepts the title of apostle will be be subject to higher expectations. Pastor James (who performed the role of an apostle but never adopted the title for himself) warns, “Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we shall incur a stricter judgment (James 3:1). If the warning holds for teachers, how much more for apostles!
Here’s another drawback. Anyone who claims the title of apostle today will be tossed into controversy. Some well-meaning and knowledgeable people don’t even believe in modern day apostles! Saint Paul was forced to spend unusual amounts of time defending his claim to be an apostle.
A third “con” is perhaps most important. No one should use the title of apostle until he’s proven in that ministry. If God has in fact called a minister as an apostle, he may well use the concept in prayer to God, but woe to the man who uses the title before his time.
Some Pros: Should Modern Day Apostles use the Title “Apostle?”
Use of the term is Biblical and common occurring about 85 times in the New Testament. No one can deny St Paul used the term prolifically and applied it to himself.
Another Pro. Use of the title can help define a man and his role in the church. Napoleon said, “A man becomes the clothes he wears,” and dressed his army well. Think of the New York Yankees dressed in pinstripes. They defined themselves as “elite” and went out to win pennants. In much the same way, a minister needs to see himself doing what he’s called to do.
A title can (if used rightly) help others to relate to a minister in his God-anointed gifting. For example, a man who functions as an evangelist and wears the tile appropriately may receive more open doors to minister. He doesn’t need to hide his gifts and calling. For some apostles, it may be similar.
Obviously, there’s more to the question. Come to Local Churches Global Apostles for eye-opening insights many scholars have overlooked. What do you think? Should modern day apostles use the title “apostle?”
Use the comment box to weigh in.
This is a timely article that addresses a powerful crisis at this point in the Church. The field is littered with false apostles, prophets, and evangelists; it is this pervasive false witness that stains the reality of the apostolic office, while not diminishing the powerful need for this genuine office in the Church today. Indeed, the church of the latter times will have a portion of the truth but deny its power. Tell me, is this not our time?
Perhaps this argument is a bit arcane but humility is the lacking element from the business cards that profess and the bold proclamations that attest. It’s humility like Christ’s humility being in the form as God, not thinking equality with God something to be grasped but denied himself. This powerful example serves as a guiding template for our leadership and office fulfillment.
Apostle, while biblical, has become very controversial. We are called not only to the Christ-life but to building unity in the Body, Christ’s Church. The title need not be a stumbling block to others. Moreover, the office and title for believer’s today fuels the cultural church in ways not experienced by the Apostle Paul. A modern day apostle is clearly evident by their effect, like Billy Graham. The latter did not trumpet the title or share in steering committees, but it was/is apparent by the works of God that have been done.
Most Christians in America have little biblical literacy knowledge and even less understanding of the early Church. It seems there are greater problems than the question mentioned. A far greater challenge is not only how to motivate the Church to reach the lost with intentional and relational evangelism, but how can an apostle seek guidance in the maelstrom of division in the Church today and conflicting viewpoints. An anonymous apostle’s comment perhaps offers wisdom in this discussion and current cultural climate saying recently, “I shall never place this title on a church sign or flyer for a church, or pronounce it with pride, rather, let them see my faith, hope, and love and know my difference and may my Lord reveal this knowledge to them only as it serves the Kingdom and further the Church.”
Hi Bruce,
Thank you for your balanced and well-written comments.
When you wrote “t seems there are greater problems than the question mentioned. A far greater challenge is not only how to motivate the Church to reach the lost . . . ” To me that is a crucial question for our day. Apostles need to open up some new (spiritual) territory for our churches in this.
I also appreciated your comment: Most Christians in America have little biblical literacy knowledge and even less understanding of the early Church. ” I have written the book Local Churches Global Apostles:How Churches Related to Apostles in the NT Era and Why It Matters Now to help address this need. Get set for some surprises as you read!
Thank you, Mark! I have really struggled with this topic. As I read Matthew 7, there is nothing wrong with a good dose of fear.
Glad it encouraged you, Bruce.
I still have no idea what an “apostle” is or what one is supposed to do that an evangelist or pastor doesn’t do (or get to do).
Hi Cas,
On my blog, go to the post “What is an Apostle?” Good question you asked. Thanks for checking in.