The Meaning of Apostles vs. Disciples

Summary

The script distinguishes between 'apostles' and 'disciples' in Christianity. While all followers of Jesus are disciples, the term 'apostle' refers to the twelve specific men chosen by Jesus to be leaders of the early church. The number twelve symbolizes the tribes of Israel, indicating the apostles' role in leading the new people of God. After Jesus' ascension, the apostles appointed other leaders, continuing their mission. The script emphasizes the ongoing role of discipleship and the guidance provided by the apostles and their successors.

Takeaways

• 🔑 The terms 'apostles' and 'disciples' both refer to followers of Jesus, but they have distinct meanings and roles.
• 📜 There are 12 specific apostles mentioned in the Gospels, whereas the term 'disciples' applies to a much broader group of followers.
• 💼 The word 'apostle' means 'one who is sent,' indicating a leadership role, while 'disciple' signifies a 'student' or learner.
• 🔟 Jesus appointed 12 men to be his apostles, highlighting their unique status and responsibilities within the early Christian community.
• 🔄 The number 12 for the apostles is symbolic, reflecting the 12 tribes of Israel and representing the new leadership for God's people.
• 🌏 The apostles' role was to lead the church and guide the disciples, with their authority extending beyond their immediate followers.
• 🔝 After Jesus' ascension, the apostles were left in charge, becoming the primary leaders of the early Christian church.
• ✋ The apostles had the authority to appoint other leaders within the church through the laying on of hands, ensuring the continuation of their mission.
• 🙏 All followers of Jesus are disciples, expected to learn and grow in their faith, guided by the teachings and leadership of the apostles and their successors.
• 🌟 The mission of the church is to 'go make disciples,' emphasizing the ongoing need for spreading the teachings of Jesus and nurturing new followers.

Q & A

What is the difference between an apostle and a disciple in the context of the Gospels?

In the context of the Gospels, an apostle refers to one who is sent, specifically the twelve men appointed by Jesus to be leaders of the church. A disciple, on the other hand, is a student and a follower of Jesus, with no specific limit to their number.

Why were there exactly twelve apostles chosen by Jesus?

Jesus chose twelve apostles to correspond to the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing the leadership of the new people of God in the church.

What is the role of the apostles in the church according to the script?

The apostles have a specific role as leaders of the church, guiding and leading the rest of the disciples in their faith.

How are disciples different from apostles in terms of their relationship with Jesus?

Disciples are followers of Jesus who are constantly learning about their faith and being led by the apostles and their successors, whereas apostles are a select group with a leadership role in the church.

What does the term 'apostle' mean, and how is it used in the context of the script?

The term 'apostle' means one who is sent. In the context of the script, it refers to the twelve men specifically chosen by Jesus to be leaders and messengers of the church.

What does the term 'disciple' mean, and how is it used in the context of the script?

The term 'disciple' means a student. In the script, it is used to refer to the followers of Jesus who are learning about their faith and are led by the apostles.

What is the significance of the number twelve in the context of the apostles?

The number twelve is significant because it represents the twelve tribes of Israel, and by choosing twelve apostles, Jesus established them as the leaders of the new people of God.

After Jesus ascended into heaven, who was left in charge according to the script?

After Jesus ascended into heaven, the apostles were left in charge as the leaders of the church.

How did the apostles continue the mission of leading the church after Jesus' departure?

The apostles continued the mission by appointing other leaders, or apostles, through the laying on of hands, to carry on the leadership of the church.

What is the relationship between the apostles and the disciples in terms of leadership and followership?

The apostles are the leaders of the church, appointed by Jesus, while the disciples are the followers who are led by the apostles and their successors in their journey of faith.

How does the script define the process of becoming a disciple of Jesus?

The script defines becoming a disciple of Jesus as a process of constant learning and growth in faith, under the guidance of the apostles and their successors.