Romans 1

"Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the Gospel of God." Romans 1:1

WHAT IS AN APOSTLE?

Our understanding of the word "apostle" in New Testament literature is well defined by the following texts:-

1. As defined by Peter

In his short word to the founding members of the Jerusalem Church, Peter spoke these words, before the election of Matthias as an apostle.

"Therefore, of these men who have accompanied
us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and
out among us, beginning from the baptism of John
to the day when He was taken up from us,
one of these must become a witness with us of His
resurrection."
Acts 1:21-22

a) He must have been a follower of Jesus right from the start.

b) He must be a witness of the Risen Savior.

2. As defined by Paul

Paul's apostleship was questioned by his detractors. He was not one of the original disciples. However, Paul did see the Risen Savior! Partially, in defence of his apostleship, Paul made the following statement concerning apostleship.

"…for in nothing was I behind the most eminent
apostles, though I am nothing. Truly the signs of
an apostle were accomplished among you with all
perseverance, in signs, and wonders and mighty deeds."
2 Corinthians 12:11-12

a) He identified himself as an apostle, on par with the "most eminent apostles".

b) He wrote of "signs of an apostle".

Apostles were especially empowered by the Lord to perform the following:-

i) Signs

ii) Wonders

iii) Mighty deeds

Let us also take time to ponder this additional text Paul wrote with reference to his apostolic ministry.

"For I will not dare to speak of any of those things
which Christ has not accomplished through me,
in word or deed…
in mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the
Spirit of God…"
Romans 15:18-19