The Apostles

I Corinthians 12:28-29; Ephesians 4:11-16

I.         In the Greek, apostolos, meaning one who is sent with a message, an ambassador - Acts 1:8

II.        They were witnesses of Jesus Christ - I John 1:1-3; Acts 2:32; 1:21-22; 10:39-41

            A.        They were inspired to insure the accuracy of their testimony - John 15:26-27

            B.        They had power to show God’s support - Acts 4:33; Hebrews 2:4

            C.        No one today can be a witness

                        1.         We weren’t there to see Christ walk on this earth. We didn’t see him die. We did not witness his resurrection.

                        2.         We can speak about Jesus and how he has changed our lives, but we can’t be an eye-witness.

            D.        The apostles gave personal testimony of the things they witnessed.

III.       They established the church - Ephesians 2:19-20

            A.        They had authority to issue God’s commands - Matthew 18:18

            B.        They were Christ’s representatives - Luke 10:16; II Peter 3:1-2; I Thessalonians 2:13

            C.        Their teachings were permanent - I Peter 1:23-25; II Peter 1:3; II Timothy 3:16-18; Jude 3

IV.      Warnings against others claiming to be apostles - II Corinthians 14:13-15; Revelation 2:2; Galatians 1:6-10; I John 4:1