Term · Bible dictionary

Apostle

An «one sent» — first used of the twelve disciples Jesus chose to be his authoritative witnesses, then of Paul and a handful of others called by the risen Christ.

The Greek apostolos means «sent one,» «messenger,» or «envoy.» Jesus chose twelve disciples and named them «apostles» — eyewitnesses of his ministry, death, and resurrection, sent to preach the gospel.

After Judas's betrayal, Matthias was added; later Paul, called «out of due time,» joined them as the apostle to the Gentiles. The apostolic teaching is the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20); the New Testament is its lasting witness.

Key verses BSB · Public Domain (CC0)

Matthew 10:2 “These are the names of the twelve apostles: first Simon, called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John;” Ephesians 2:20 “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone.”

Original BibleDawn entry. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.