Question:
We believe in spiritual gifts. The gifts consist of apostles, prophets, teachers, etc. Now that apostles, twelve in number, were a very important factor in the early church, Acts 1: 23-26 testified, where are they today? Why should the true church of Christ not have them today?
Answer:
Yes, the perpetuity of spiritual gifts is clearly taught in the New Testament. (See Ephesians 4:8-16; 1 Corinthians 12; Romans 12:3-8). Their restoration is also clearly implied in these scriptures and Revelation 12:17; 1 Corinthians 1:7; Joel 2:23, 28-31. But why say twelve apostles? The Lord chose twelve, a number peculiar to Israel, who might be with Him and be witnesses to those people of His work and character. Of that number, to that people, all must have seen the Lord and been with Him in His work. (See Acts 1:21, 22). But apostleship was not confined to them. “Apostle” is a Greek word meaning “one sent,” a delegate, an ambassador, a messenger who leads out. Jesus was an apostle, the Apostle, sent of God out into this great dark world. (See Hebrews 3:1). Paul was an apostle. (See Galatians 1:1). Epaphroditus was an apostle. (See Philippians 2:25). Titus was an apostle. (See 2 Corinthians 8:23). Barnabas was an apostle (See Acts 11:22; 13:2; 1 Corinthians 9:5, 6). There are at least sixteen apostles mentioned in the New Testament. Anyone whom God calls and sends forth to a field, or sends forth to lead out in some great movement, is truly an apostle. The true church has them today. Considering these references, you will easily make all the necessary applications.
