APOSTOLIC meaning and definition

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What Does "Apostolic" Mean?

In the realm of Christianity, the term "apostolic" is often used to describe a specific era or movement in the early Christian church. But what exactly does it mean?

To understand the significance of "apostolic," let's first delve into its etymology. The word "apostle" comes from the Greek word "apostolos," which means "messenger" or "emissary." In biblical contexts, an apostle is a person sent by God to spread His message and establish new churches.

Now, when we talk about the "Apostolic Era" or something being "apostolic," we're referring to the period of time between Jesus' resurrection and the death of the last apostle (typically considered to be John). This era is characterized by the direct connection between Jesus' original disciples (the Twelve Apostles) and their subsequent successors, who continued the work of spreading Christianity.

During this period, the apostles were entrusted with the responsibility of carrying out Jesus' commission to "make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19-20). They traveled extensively, preaching the gospel, establishing new churches, and appointing other leaders to carry on their work. The apostles played a crucial role in shaping the early Christian church, laying the foundation for its growth and development.

Some key characteristics that define the Apostolic Era include:

1. Direct Connection to Jesus: The apostles had a personal relationship with Jesus, having walked alongside Him during His ministry and witnessed His resurrection.
2. Authority and Commission: The apostles were entrusted with the authority to carry out Jesus' commission, as recorded in the book of Acts (Acts 1:8).
3. Leadership and Ministry: The apostles played a leading role in establishing new churches, preaching the gospel, and appointing other leaders.
4. Inspiration and Guidance: The Holy Spirit guided the apostles in their ministry, providing inspiration and guidance as they wrote the New Testament Scriptures.

In modern Christianity, the term "apostolic" is often used to describe a movement or denomination that seeks to recapture the essence of this early period. Apostolic movements emphasize the importance of the authority of Scripture, the priesthood of all believers, and the need for a strong connection to Jesus Christ.

In conclusion, when we talk about something being "apostolic," we're referring to a specific era in Christian history characterized by direct connection to Jesus, authority, leadership, and inspiration. The Apostolic Era serves as an important foundation stone for our understanding of Christianity today, reminding us of the power and significance of God's Word and the importance of His people continuing to spread His message throughout the world.

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