Radical Disciples – A Remnant Revolution

The Apostolic Foundation of the Church -Introduction.

In the realm of architecture, the importance of a solid foundation cannot be overstated. Just as a building requires a stable base to support its structure, the church is anchored by the teachings and authority of the apostles, who serve as its foundation.

The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 2:20, provides a powerful analogy that underscores this truth; he states that the church is built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus as the chief cornerstone.

This series of posts seeks to unpack the significance of the apostolic foundation, exploring the identity of the apostles, their unique role in the early church as well as the current church, and the implications of their foundational status for contemporary believers.

Understanding the Apostles…..

The original apostles were chosen by Jesus Christ to be His immediate messengers, tasked with the vital role of disseminating His teachings and authority. The term “apostle” itself translates to “one who is sent,” signifying their mission to preach the gospel and establish the church.

The original twelve apostles, including Peter, James, John, and Judas Iscariot, were selected during Jesus’ earthly ministry, while Paul, a later addition, was also designated an apostle after a transformational encounter with Christ.

Their firsthand experience with Jesus equipped them uniquely to bear witness to His life, death, and resurrection, granting them a level of authority that established the church’s core beliefs and practices.

The apostles’ role in the church is and was not merely administrative or organizational; it is deeply spiritual and revelatory. They were, and still are tasked with interpreting the teachings of Jesus, guiding the believers, and laying the groundwork for the Christian faith.

Through their writings, which make up a significant portion of the New Testament, the apostles articulated the doctrines of the church, providing insights into the nature of God, salvation, and Christian living.

Their teachings continue to inform and shape the beliefs of modern-day Christians, establishing a direct line of continuity from the early church to the present.

The Significance of the Apostolic Foundation…

The concept of the apostles as part of the foundation of the church carries profound implications for the identity and mission of the church today. Just as a building’s stability hinges on its foundation, the health and effectiveness of the church are rooted in its adherence to the teachings of the apostles. But let it be said, the Christ our Lord is the chief corner stone upon which the foundation is built.

In an age of shifting cultural values and diverse theological interpretations, the call to return to the foundational truths established by the apostles remains relevant.

Emphasizing the authority of the apostolic teachings encourages unity among believers, as these teachings point to a shared understanding of Jesus as Lord and Savior. Furthermore, recognizing the apostles as the foundation underscores the importance of the gospel.

The message they preached—centered on Christ’s redemptive work—serves as the cornerstone of the church’s mission. The church is called to be an extension of the apostles’ work, carrying forth the gospel message into the world.

This includes not only evangelism but also nurturing a community of believers grounded in apostolic teachings, fostering spiritual growth, and demonstrating Christ’s love through service and outreach.

Conclusion…

In conclusion, the apostolic foundation of the church is a profound and essential aspect of Christian identity.

The apostles in the early Church years, as the original messengers of Christ, provide a solid base for the church, enabling it to fulfill its mission in the world.

Their teachings continue to guide modern believers, offering a framework for understanding faith and practice. As we reflect on the significance of this foundation, we are reminded that, like an architect’s blueprint, the life and message of Jesus Christ, as conveyed by the apostles, should direct the church’s path forward.

Whereas the Apostle of our day are those who are in many cases re-introducing the Apostolic teachings to the Body of believers. There are those who will claim we no longer have apostles, yet they contradict the scriptures as Paul was clear, the Apostles, Prophets, Evangelist, and Shepherding teachers are for the perfecting of the Church, and it is clear that as this date, the Church is not walking in perfection (Ephesians 4:11-13).

Thus, by anchoring ourselves in the apostolic foundation, we not only honor the legacy of the early church but also ensure that we remain steadfast in our commitment to the gospel.

Next week part two….. “The Foundation of the Church: Understanding the Apostolic Office”

~Dr. Russell Welch
Elder / Apostolic Teacher: Highway to Heaven Church and Founder and Shepherd of Remnant Warrior Ministries / Remnant Warrior School of Spiritual Warfare.