from ἀποστέλλω; a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers):--apostle, messenger, he that is sent.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apóstolos**, represented by `{{G652}}`, means a delegate, messenger, or one who is sent. It is derived from `{{G649}}` apostéllō, which means to send out on a mission. Appearing **81 times** in **80 verses**, the term specifically refers to an ambassador of the Gospel and an official commissioner of Christ, often with miraculous powers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G652}}` is used to define a foundational office in the early church. Paul frequently identifies himself as "an **apostle**, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father...)" [[Galatians 1:1]]. This divine calling is echoed when he states he was "called to be an **apostle**, separated unto the gospel of God" [[Romans 1:1]]. The church itself is described as being "built upon the foundation of the **apostles** and prophets" [[Ephesians 2:20]], and the early believers devoted themselves to "the **apostles**' doctrine" [[Acts 2:42]]. The term is not used exclusively for the original twelve; others, like Barnabas, are referred to as **apostles** [[Acts 14:14]], while Epaphroditus is called a **messenger** (the same Greek word) of the church [[Philippians 2:25]]. The title's significance is highlighted by warnings against "false **apostles**, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the **apostles** of Christ" [[2 Corinthians 11:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the role and its context:
* `{{G649}}` **apostéllō** (set apart, i.e. (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission)): This is the root verb from which **apóstolos** is derived. It is used when God says, "I will **send** them prophets and apostles" [[Luke 11:49]].
* `{{G5570}}` **pseudapóstolos** (a spurious apostle, i.e. pretended pracher): This compound word directly contrasts the genuine office, identifying those who falsely claim the title as "**false apostles**" [[2 Corinthians 11:13]].
* `{{G3992}}` **pémpō** (to dispatch... send): This word is used to describe the one doing the sending. In a lesson on humility, Jesus explains that "he that is sent (**apóstolos**) [is not] greater than he that **sent** (**pémpō**) him" [[John 13:16]].
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave... servant): This term is often paired with apostle to describe the believer's position. Paul, Peter, and Jude identify themselves as both a **servant** and an **apostle**, signifying that their God-given authority is exercised in total submission to Christ ([[Romans 1:1]], [[2 Peter 1:1]], [[Jude 1:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G652}}` is significant and defines a key aspect of church leadership and authority.
* **Divine Commission:** An apostle's authority is not self-appointed or granted by men but is a direct commission from God [[Galatians 1:1]]. Paul's apostleship was established "by the will of God" [[1 Corinthians 1:1]].
* **Foundational Authority:** The apostles were responsible for the church's foundational doctrine [[Acts 2:42]] and their witness was confirmed by "signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds" [[2 Corinthians 12:12]]. The church is built on their testimony [[Ephesians 2:20]].
* **Sent with a Purpose:** The core meaning is one of being "sent." This mission is primarily to preach the gospel. Paul was ordained a preacher and an **apostle**, a teacher of the Gentiles [[1 Timothy 2:7]].
* **Christ, the Archetype:** Jesus is uniquely called "the **Apostle** and High Priest of our profession" [[Hebrews 3:1]], as the one supremely sent from God to accomplish His work.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** denotes far more than a historical title. It signifies a person divinely commissioned and sent with the authority of the sender. While it most commonly refers to the foundational leaders of the early Christian church, its meaning extends to any messenger sent on a sacred mission. The term establishes a clear line of spiritual authority originating from God, embodied perfectly in Christ as the ultimate **Apostle**, and delegated to those chosen to lay the foundation of His church.
TRV