Topical Encyclopedia The term "apostles" refers to the twelve men chosen by Jesus Christ to be His closest followers and to spread His teachings. A notable characteristic of these apostles, as depicted in the New Testament, is their lack of formal education and scholarly training, which is often highlighted to emphasize the divine power and wisdom that worked through them.Scriptural Basis The perception of the apostles as "unlearned" is primarily derived from Acts 4:13, where Peter and John are described in the context of their boldness before the Sanhedrin: "When they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they marveled and took note that these men had been with Jesus" . This passage underscores the astonishment of the Jewish leaders at the apostles' ability to speak with authority and wisdom despite their lack of formal education. Cultural and Historical Context In first-century Jewish society, formal education was highly valued, especially among the Pharisees and scribes, who were well-versed in the Law and the Prophets. The apostles, by contrast, were primarily fishermen and common laborers, with Matthew being a tax collector. Their backgrounds did not include the rigorous rabbinical training that was typical of religious leaders of the time. Divine Empowerment The apostles' lack of formal education serves to highlight the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. After Pentecost, the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit, enabling them to preach with authority and perform miracles. This divine empowerment is seen as a fulfillment of Jesus' promise in John 14:26: "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you" . Theological Implications The unlearned status of the apostles is often interpreted as a testament to God's ability to use the humble and lowly to accomplish His purposes. This theme is consistent with the broader biblical narrative, where God frequently chooses unlikely individuals to fulfill His plans, as seen in the accounts of David, Gideon, and others. The apostles' effectiveness in spreading the Gospel despite their lack of formal education underscores the principle that God's strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Impact on Early Christianity The apostles' success in establishing the early Church and spreading Christianity throughout the Roman Empire is a powerful testament to their divine calling and the authenticity of their message. Their ability to communicate profound theological truths and to lead the early Christian communities was not dependent on human wisdom but on the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit. Conclusion The apostles' designation as "unlearned" serves as a reminder of the transformative power of Christ and the Holy Spirit. It challenges believers to rely not on human wisdom or credentials but on the divine wisdom and strength that God provides to those who are called according to His purpose. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 11:25At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hid these things from the wise and prudent, and have revealed them to babes. Nave's Topical Index Acts 4:13 Library The Apostles Chosen Although, Even if There Went Before no Testimonies Concerning ... Calumny Concerning the Righteousness of the Prophets and Apostles. Objections to Genuineness. Peter and John Examined by the Council. The Disciples as Scribes. 1 Cor. xiv. 20 With and Like Christ On the Incarnation of Christ. These Propositions Cannot be Predicated of any of those Books ... Resources What is an apostle? | GotQuestions.orgIs apostolic succession biblical? | GotQuestions.org What is apostolic doctrine? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Apostles: A Title Distinguishing the Twelve Disciples Apostles: Authority of Commission of, Above Apostles: Duties of Commission of, Above, Apostles: Fail to Comprehend the Nature and Mission of Jesus Apostles: Miraculous Power Given To Apostles: Moral State of, Before Pentecost Apostles: Slow to Receive Jesus, As Messiah The Apostles were Hated by the World The Apostles were not of the World The Apostles were Unlearned Men The Apostles: Called by Christ The Apostles: Called by The Holy Spirit The Apostles: Christ Always Present With The Apostles: Christ Pre-Eminently Called "The Apostle" The Apostles: Empowered to Work Miracles The Apostles: Equal Authority Given to Each of The Apostles: Guided by the Spirit Into all Truth The Apostles: Humility Urged Upon The Apostles: Instructed by the Spirit to Answer Adversaries The Apostles: Mutual Love Urged Upon The Apostles: Ordained by Christ The Apostles: Persecutions and Sufferings of The Apostles: Received Their Title from Christ The Apostles: Saw Christ in the Flesh The Apostles: Selected from Obscure Stations The Apostles: Self-Denial Urged Upon The Apostles: Sent First to the House of Israel The Apostles: Sent to Preach the Gospel to all Nations The Apostles: Specially Devoted to the office of the Ministry The Apostles: The Holy Spirit Given To The Apostles: Warned Against a Timid Profession of Christ The Apostles: Witnesses of the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ Related Terms Transgressing (12 Occurrences) |
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