The meaning of “ἀπόστολος”
Understanding apóstolos reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
apostle, messenger, he that is sent. - a delegate - specially, an ambassador of the Gospel - officially a commissioner o...
ἀπόστολος
apostle, messenger, he that is sent. - a delegate - specially, an ambassador of the Gospel - officially a commissioner of Christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 10:2 | “Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;” Word: ἀπόστολος (apóstolos) | |
| Acts 6:6 | “Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.” Word: ἀπόστολος (apóstolos) | |
| Galatians 1:17 | “Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.” Word: ἀπόστολος (apóstolos) | |
| 1 Thessalonians 2:6 | “Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.” Word: ἀπόστολος (apóstolos) | |
| Hebrews 3:1 | “Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;” Word: ἀπόστολος (apóstolos) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Apostle
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Apostle, sent one
The Greek apostolos (ἀπόστολος) means apostle or sent one—an authorized messenger. The twelve apostles were chosen by Christ and empowered as His witnesses, laying the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20).