In the Christian tradition, the term "saints" refers to those who are set apart for God, often characterized by their faithfulness and holiness. The New Testament frequently uses the term to describe all believers in Christ, emphasizing their sanctification through faith. In the Berean Standard Bible, Ephesians 1:1 addresses the "saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus," highlighting the communal and inclusive nature of sainthood among early Christians.

The concept of sainthood is rooted in the Old Testament, where the Hebrew word "qadosh" signifies holiness and separation unto God. In the New Testament, the Greek word "hagios" is used similarly. Saints are called to live lives that reflect their holy status, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15-16 : "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"

Throughout church history, the term "saint" has also been used to denote individuals who have exemplified extraordinary faith and virtue, often recognized formally by various Christian traditions. However, the biblical understanding remains that all who are in Christ are saints, called to live in accordance with their identity in Him.

Apostles

The apostles hold a foundational role in the Christian faith, primarily as the original messengers and witnesses of Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection. The term "apostle" comes from the Greek "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent." The Berean Standard Bible records Jesus appointing the Twelve in Mark 3:14: "He appointed twelve, whom He named apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach."

The apostles were entrusted with the task of establishing the early Church and spreading the Gospel. Acts 2:42 notes that the early believers "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer," underscoring the apostles' role in doctrinal instruction and community life.

Paul, often referred to as the Apostle to the Gentiles, expands the understanding of apostleship in his epistles, emphasizing the spiritual authority and responsibility that come with the role. In Ephesians 4:11-12 , Paul writes, "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ."

Prophets

Prophets in the Bible are individuals called by God to deliver His messages to His people. They serve as God's mouthpieces, often calling for repentance, foretelling future events, and revealing divine truths. The prophetic tradition is rich in both the Old and New Testaments, with figures like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel in the former, and John the Baptist and Agabus in the latter.

In the Berean Standard Bible, Hebrews 1:1-2 highlights the role of prophets: "On many past occasions and in many different ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets. But in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son." This passage underscores the continuity and culmination of prophetic revelation in Jesus Christ.

The New Testament also acknowledges the ongoing role of prophecy within the Church. In 1 Corinthians 14:1 , Paul encourages believers to "pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy." This indicates that prophecy remains a vital aspect of the Church's life, intended for edification, encouragement, and consolation.

Prophets are often characterized by their boldness and commitment to truth, even in the face of opposition. Their messages frequently challenge the status quo, calling God's people back to faithfulness and obedience.