Apella is a term that appears in the New Testament, specifically in the context of the Apostle Paul's writings. The word "Apella" is derived from the Greek word "Ἀπέλλα," which is often understood to refer to a council or assembly. However, in the biblical context, it is used in a more specific sense.

Biblical Reference:

The term "Apella" is found in Romans 2:28-29, where Paul discusses the nature of true Jewish identity. The Berean Standard Bible translates these verses as follows:

"For a Jew is not one who is outwardly, nor is circumcision only outward and physical. But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. Such a man’s praise is not from men, but from God."

In this passage, Paul is addressing the Jewish Christians in Rome, emphasizing that true Jewish identity is not merely a matter of external observance or ethnic heritage, but rather an inward spiritual reality. The term "Apella" is not directly mentioned in these verses, but it is often associated with the broader discussion of Jewish identity and the spiritual assembly of believers.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the Greco-Roman world, the term "Apella" was used to describe a public assembly or council, particularly in the context of Spartan society. The Apella was the popular assembly of Sparta, where citizens gathered to make decisions and discuss matters of state. This cultural background provides insight into the use of the term in the New Testament, as it conveys the idea of a gathered community or assembly.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the concept of "Apella" in the New Testament underscores the importance of the spiritual community of believers. Paul’s emphasis on inward transformation and the work of the Holy Spirit highlights the distinction between mere external adherence to religious rituals and the genuine, heartfelt commitment to God. This inward transformation is what constitutes the true assembly of God's people, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Application for Believers:

For contemporary believers, the notion of "Apella" serves as a reminder of the importance of being part of a spiritual community that is defined not by external markers, but by a shared faith and commitment to Christ. It calls Christians to examine their own hearts and to seek a relationship with God that is characterized by genuine faith and spiritual renewal.

In summary, while the term "Apella" itself is not explicitly mentioned in the New Testament, its conceptual significance is woven into the fabric of Paul's teachings on the nature of true faith and the identity of God's people.

To Apella.
... Letters of the Blessed Theodoret, CXV. To Apella. When I undertook the
direction of the see of Cyrus, I procured for it from all ...
/.../theodoret/the ecclesiastical history of theodoret/cxv to apella.htm

The Mythical Hypothesis of Strauss.
... Christian Church! Credat Jud??us Apella. Here, if anywhere, we must bow
before the overwhelming force of a most glorious fact. Dr ...
/.../schaff/the person of christ/the mythical hypothesis of strauss.htm

The Ecclesiastical History of Theodoret
... CXIII. (a). From Pope Leo to Theodoret. CXIV. To Andiberis. CXV. To Apella. CXVI.
To the Presbyter Renatus. CXVII. To the Bishop Florentius. CXVIII. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/theodoret/the ecclesiastical history of theodoret/

Apella (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Apella (1 Occurrence). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella,
that veteran believer; and to the members of the household of Aristobulus. ...
/a/apella.htm - 6k

Apelles (1 Occurrence)
... It is a common name. Many commentators refer to Horace (Satires, i0.5.100): "Credat
Judaeus Apella, non ego.". Multi-Version Concordance Apelles (1 Occurrence). ...
/a/apelles.htm - 7k

Ape

/a/ape.htm - 8k

Veteran (1 Occurrence)
... Veteran (1 Occurrence). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella, that veteran believer;
and to the members of the household of Aristobulus. (WEY). ...
/v/veteran.htm - 6k

Greetings (48 Occurrences)
... Lord; (WEY). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella, that veteran believer; and to
the members of the household of Aristobulus. (WEY). Romans ...
/g/greetings.htm - 18k

Members (54 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV WEY ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella, that veteran
believer; and to the members of the household of Aristobulus. (WEY). ...
/m/members.htm - 21k

Believer (15 Occurrences)
... believer. (WEY). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella, that veteran believer;
and to the members of the household of Aristobulus. (WEY). ...
/b/believer.htm - 11k

Numbers (136 Occurrences)
... J, E, P and D respectively. Credat Judaeus Apella! (4) Inherent Difficulties
of Analysis. The critical theory, besides making of ...
/n/numbers.htm - 71k

Anem (1 Occurrence)

/a/anem.htm - 101k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus