It is impossible to overestimate the influence of the apostles in the first Christian community. The apostles held a foundational role in the early Jerusalem church and were entrusted with teaching, guiding, and bearing witness to the gospel (Acts 1:21–26; Acts 2:42). Their authority was based on being witnesses to the resurrection and their close discipleship under Jesus (cf. Luke 24:48). They exercised spiritual authority in prayer, teaching, doctrine, performing signs and wonders, and making decisions for the unity and direction of the church (Acts 6:2–4; Acts 15). This leadership was inherently
subjugated to Christ, the Head of the Church (Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:22–23). The apostles served as a living example of what it meant to serve Christ. Even their name ‘apostolos’(Greek), meaning ‘one who is sent out’, united them with every Christian believer. They were truly the first among equals, pointing the way to mission. Like them, we too have been sent out. Like them, we too have received a commission. Where is Jesus sending you today?