apostolos

What it means

From the verb "to send." An apostolos is a messenger sent with someone's authority to act on their behalf. Matthew uses the word only once, for the twelve as Jesus sends them out (10:2); elsewhere he calls them disciples.

Range of meaning

• MessengerSomeone sent with a message.
• EnvoySomeone sent to act with the sender's authority.
• The apostlesThe twelve, and later others such as Paul.

In Matthew

• Chapter 10

  The only time Matthew calls them "apostles": the ones sent out (10:2).