This story is about how Jesus utilized the apostles to lay the foundation for the Christian church but, first, you need to understand the difference between a disciple and an apostle.
First, Disciples vs Apostles
Disciples are generally understood to be students or learners who follow a teacher to learn from their teachings and practices. In the context of the New Testament, disciples of Jesus were those who followed him during his earthly ministry, listening to his teachings, witnessing his miracles, and seeking to understand his message. In the Book of Matthew, Jesus calls his disciples to follow him and learn from him, inviting them to be part of his inner circle and guiding them in their spiritual growth.
On the other hand, apostles are a specific group of individuals chosen by Jesus for a special mission. The word “apostle” comes from the Greek word “apostolos,” which means “one who is sent out.” In the Book of Matthew, Jesus selects twelve of his disciples to be apostles, giving them authority to preach, heal, and cast out demons in his name. The names of those apostles are Peter; Andrew; James; John; Phillip; Bartholomew; Thomas; Matthew; James, son of Alphaeus; Judas, son of James; Simon the Zealot; and Judas Iscariot (who took his own life after betraying Jesus and was later replaced by Matthias). These apostles were entrusted with the task of spreading the Gospel and establishing the Christian church after Jesus’ resurrection.
While all apostles are disciples, not all disciples are apostles. Disciples are followers and learners of Jesus, while apostles are chosen messengers with a specific mission to proclaim the Good News and build the early Christian church.
How it all started
In the Book of Matthew, we find out how Jesus Christ utilized his chosen apostles to lay the foundation for the Christian church. Jesus taught of love, compassion, and forgiveness and handpicked twelve disciples to accompany him on His ministry and learn from His wisdom.
Throughout His time with the apostles, Jesus imparted valuable lessons and insights, preparing them for the monumental task ahead. He shared parables, performed miracles, and demonstrated the power of faith and devotion. By witnessing his actions and hearing his words, the apostles were equipped with the knowledge and inspiration needed to carry on his mission.
After His death, burial and resurrection, Jesus appeared to his apostles, commissioning them to spread the Good News to all corners of the earth. He instructed them to baptize believers in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, symbolizing a new beginning and a spiritual rebirth. This pivotal moment marked the official start of the Christian church, with the apostles serving as its foundational pillars.
In 2 Peter 1:16-18 Peter shared how this was witnessed by the apostles and not just a clever story.
2 Peter 1:16-18. “For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’ We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.”
The mission
Empowered by the teachings and guidance of Jesus, the apostles embarked on their mission with unwavering faith and determination. They traveled far and wide, sharing the message of salvation and redemption, and establishing communities of believers. Through their efforts, the early Christian church began to take shape, growing in numbers and influence.
Entrusted his apostles
The Book of Matthew provides a profound account of how Jesus Christ entrusted His apostles with the crucial task of spreading His message and building His church. Their unwavering dedication, coupled with divine guidance, laid the groundwork for the global Christian community that continues to thrive to this day. The legacy of the apostles serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith, unity, and the transformative impact of Jesus’ teachings.