APOSTLES (Greek αποστολος, literally "one who is sent off") were sent by Jesus Christ to preach the Good News about the establishment of God’s Kingdom on Earth. There are many and different examples of mission in the Holy Writ, such as the dispatch of prophets for a certain commission, the dispatch of Archangel Gabriel to Mary Mother of God, or the dispatch of John the Baptist before Jesus to provide a way for the people for repentance etc. However, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was his main apostle, ‘’Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession” (Hebrews 3.1). 

Jesus selected his apostles according to God’s will, first of all he assured them that he was sent by Father God. Then he redeemed and purified them, taught them his heavenly commandments, made them vessels so as to carry God’s Word,  “gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness" (Matthew 10.1). He distributed his body as heavenly bread and his blood as heavenly wine among them (see Sacrament), resurrecting he anointed them with the privilege of forgiving and retaining sins by breathing Holy Spirit on them. (John 20.21-23). Then, 50 days after the resurrection when he had already ascended, he baptized them with the Holy Spirit and glow granted by his Father (see the Pentecost). Only after that they were entitled to accomplish the commissions given by Jesus; “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28.18-19, see also Mark 16.14-20, Luke 24.46-48, John 20.19-23, Acts 1.6-8). Since the Pentecost the parishionment of  man has been done by the Holy Spirit. There were twelve apostles chosen by Jesus and travelling with him. They were called the great apostles. 

Levon Sargsyan

Source - “Christian Armenia” Encyclopedia, chief editor Hovh. Ayvazyan, Armenian Encyclopedia Publishing House, Yerevan 2002.

 

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