from ἀπό and στέλλω; set apart, i.e. (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively:--put in, send (away, forth, out), set (at liberty).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apostéllō**, represented by `{{G649}}`, means to **send out**, typically on a specific mission. It appears **143 times** in **130 unique verses**. Derived from `ἀπό` (from) and `στέλλω` (set apart), the term inherently carries the idea of being commissioned or dispatched with purpose and authority, rather than just being sent away.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G649}}` is central to the concept of divine commission. It is most prominently used for God the Father **sending** his Son into the world, not for condemnation, but for salvation [[John 3:17]]. Jesus, in turn, uses the word to describe his own identity as one **sent** by the Father [[John 8:42]]. He then applies this same model to his disciples, **sending** them out as sheep in the midst of wolves [[Matthew 10:16]] and commissioning them to preach and heal [[Luke 9:2]]. The term is also used for dispatching messengers, such as John the Baptist [[John 1:6]], and angels for specific tasks [[Matthew 24:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and implications of being sent:
* `{{G3992}}` **pémpō** (to dispatch): This word also means to send, but often from the sender's point of view. It is used in conjunction with `{{G649}}` to illustrate a transfer of commission, as when Jesus says that just as the Father **sent** `{{G649}}` him, so he will **send** `{{G3992}}` his disciples [[John 20:21]].
* `{{G1209}}` **déchomai** (to receive): As the direct counterpart to sending, this word describes the acceptance of the commissioned one. The act of receiving the messenger is equated with receiving the one who sent them, linking the sent person directly to the sender's authority [[Matthew 10:40]].
* `{{G32}}` **ángelos** (messenger): This term often identifies the one who is **sent** `{{G649}}`. God **sends** `{{G649}}` His **angels** `{{G32}}` to gather the elect, and Jesus **sent** `{{G649}}` his **angel** `{{G32}}` to deliver the Revelation, showing that those sent on a mission are messengers of the sender ([[Matthew 24:31]], [[Revelation 1:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G649}}` is profound, establishing a framework for authority, mission, and salvation.
* **Divine Commission and Authority:** The word establishes a clear chain of command originating with God the Father. The Father **sends** the Son [[1 John 4:14]], and the Son **sends** his followers [[John 20:21]]. This act of sending imparts the authority of the sender to the one being sent, a principle stated clearly in [[Luke 10:16]]: "He that heareth you heareth me... and he that despiseth me despiseth him that **sent** me."
* **Mission as Identity:** Being "sent" is a defining aspect of key biblical figures. Jesus' identity is inextricably linked to His being **sent** by the Father, a fact He repeatedly states to confirm His purpose [[John 8:42]]. Likewise, John the Baptist is identified as "a man **sent** from God" [[John 1:6]], and the disciples' work is defined by their commission to be **sent** out [[Mark 6:7]].
* **Redemptive Purpose:** Those who are **sent** by God carry a redemptive purpose. Christ was **sent** to be the Savior of the world and the propitiation for our sins ([[1 John 4:14]], [[1 John 4:10]]). His mission, as defined in [[Luke 4:18]], was to preach the gospel, heal the brokenhearted, and **set** the captives at liberty. This salvific purpose is then extended to those He sends.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G649}}` is much more than a word for movement; it signifies a divine commissioning. It establishes that a person or spirit is **set apart** and dispatched with the authority and for the specific purpose of the sender. From angels on heavenly errands to John the Baptist preparing the way, and ultimately to the Son on his redemptive mission, **apostéllō** is the verb that initiates God's action in the world through his chosen agents. It forms the very foundation for the concept of apostleship and the missional nature of the church.
TRV