The Greek word apostolḗ, represented by G651, refers to a commission or, more specifically, the office of apostleship. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. This term signifies a divinely appointed mission and the specific authority associated with the role of an apostle.
In the biblical narrative, G651 is used to define the nature and scope of an apostle's work. Paul describes receiving "grace and apostleship" for the purpose of bringing about "obedience to the faith among all nations" Romans 1:5. The term is also used to distinguish between different spheres of ministry, such as the apostleship of Peter to the circumcision and Paul's toward the Gentiles Galatians 2:8. It is presented as a formal office, as the disciples sought a candidate to take the "ministry and apostleship" from which Judas fell Acts 1:25. The legitimacy of this office is validated by its results; Paul identifies the Corinthian believers as "the seal of mine apostleship" 1 Corinthians 9:2.
Several related words clarify the concept of a divine commission:
- G652 apóstolos (apostle, messenger, he that is sent): This is the title for the person who holds the office of apostleship. The apostle is the one sent with the commission 1 Corinthians 9:2.
- G1248 diakonía (ministry, service): This word is used alongside apostleship to describe the role as one of service. The position vacated by Judas is referred to as "this ministry and apostleship" Acts 1:25.
- G5485 cháris (grace, favour, gift): Apostleship is not earned but is a divine gift. Paul states that he "received grace and apostleship," directly linking the commission to God's unmerited favour Romans 1:5.
The theological weight of G651 is significant regarding divine calling and authority.
- A Divinely Given Office: The term establishes that apostleship is a specific role received from God through grace, not a self-appointed position. It is described as a part of a "ministry" that can be occupied Acts 1:25 and is received alongside grace Romans 1:5.
- A Mission-Oriented Commission: The apostleship is defined by its purpose: to bring about "obedience to the faith" Romans 1:5. It is a targeted mission, whether to the circumcision or the Gentiles Galatians 2:8.
- Authority Confirmed by Divine Work: The authenticity of one's apostleship is confirmed by God working effectually through them Galatians 2:8 and by the tangible fruit of their ministry, as the believers themselves are the "seal" of the commission 1 Corinthians 9:2.
In summary, G651 apostolḗ is more than a general mission; it is the specific, divinely-appointed office of apostleship. It is a commission received by grace, characterized as a ministry of service, and is defined by its goal of bringing people to faith. The term illustrates that true spiritual authority is not merely claimed but is granted by God and validated by the power and fruit that He produces through the one He has sent.
TRV