The Missionary Apostolic Calling in the Bible

The term "missionary apostolic" describes the calling to be sent out as a representative of Christ to plant the gospel where it has not yet taken root. The word "apostolic" comes from the Greek apostolos, meaning "one who is sent," and "missionary" carries the same idea in Latin. Together they capture the heart of the New Testament's vision: believers commissioned and sent by Christ and His church to make disciples among the nations. This calling is not self-appointed but received, as Jesus first sent the Twelve with specific instructions, telling them, "Go not into the way of the Gentiles... But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matthew 10:5), beginning a sending that would later expand to the whole world. After His resurrection, Jesus broadened the apostolic commission to embrace all peoples. He commanded, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19), and "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15). He promised the power to carry it out: "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me... unto the uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8). The pattern of being called, set apart, and sent is vividly shown in Antioch. As the church worshiped and fasted, "the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them" (Acts 13:2), and then "when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away" (Acts 13:3). This combination of divine calling and church commissioning defines the missionary apostolic ministry. Paul embodied this calling, aspiring "to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation" (Romans 15:20). The missionary apostolic vocation continues wherever believers are sent to break new ground for the gospel, depending on the Holy Spirit, accountable to the church, and devoted to making Christ known among those who have not yet heard.