February 6, 2004

THE APOSTLE

"Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle. . . whom we confess" (Hebrews 3:1, NIV).

This title, apostle, describes another of the multiple roles of Jesus. By definition, an apostle is one sent with a mission. The word is derived from the Greek word, apostolos, meaning an "envoy," a "delegate," or an "ambassador." Jesus came to planet Earth as an apostle from the Father (see John 6:29). John, the beloved disciple, validated Christ's credentials of apostleship with the words: "We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world" (1 John 4:14, NKJV). Jesus was specifically commissioned by the Father to be the ambassador of the government of heaven. Coming to earth with the highest credentials of heaven's government, Jesus brought to light God's master plan for the restoration of the human family. He was the Father's reliable and infallible representative and spokesman. Speaking of His apostolic mission Jesus declared, "I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me" (John 6:38, NKJV).

The message of Christ, the apostle, is addressed to all the family of God. It is an exhortation to fix our gaze on Him. As the apostle, Christ came and perfectly fulfilled His mission. He came to be our substitute and Saviour, the supreme representative of all that God is--the redeemer, liberator, and the ambassador of Jehovah's government.

Christ, the great apostle invites us: "As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you" (John 20:21). Those who look to Jesus as the apostle who brought salvation to our lost planet will follow His great example in proclaiming the good news of God's kingdom.

My Prayer Today: Heavenly Father, today I will fix my thoughts only on Jesus, the great apostle. Amen.