“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,” (I Peter 1:1a).
What exactly was or is an “apostle?” Was the position of apostle only found in the early church or is it available today? There is disagreement.
The word apostle, of which Peter is specifically identified as one holding this office and title, generally means messenger. It was an individual who was sent with orders from a commander. Within the context of the church, this general meaning could refer to anyone who communicates the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are God’s messengers who are commanded to share a specific, unchanging message (Matthew 28:16-20).
However, there was also a specific definition for apostle which restricted its usage to a select few. This definition is found in Acts 1:21-26. As the eleven apostles sought to replace Judas Iscariot, they stipulated or insisted that Judas’ replacement meet the following qualifications as an apostle. First, one who accompanied and followed Jesus from the beginning of His earthly ministry from John’s baptism to Jesus’ ascension. Two, an apostle had to be a witness of the resurrection of Christ.
There were only two, of the 120 disciples present at that time (Acts 1:15) who were so qualified: Joseph called Barsabbas who was also called Justus, and Matthias (Acts 1:23). Peter’s apostleship qualified him to be a writer of Scripture, which became for the early church a standard to determine what ancient books were to be included into what became known as the New Testament.
God has a specific plan for each of His children by which we can serve Him. God had a plan for Peter. God has a plan for you and me.
Have a blessed day.
Soli deo Gloria!