Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "The Apostles were not of the world" reflects a theological understanding rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ regarding the nature and mission of His disciples. This concept is primarily derived from the Gospel of John, where Jesus distinguishes between those who belong to Him and those who belong to the world.Biblical Foundation In John 15:19 , Jesus states, "If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world." This verse underscores the separation between the followers of Christ and the secular world. The apostles, as chosen messengers of Jesus, were called to live according to the values and mission of the Kingdom of God, which often stood in stark contrast to worldly values. Further, in John 17:14-16 , during His High Priestly Prayer, Jesus prays to the Father, saying, "I have given them Your word, and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I am not asking that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world." Here, Jesus emphasizes the spiritual distinction and protection of His disciples, affirming their mission within the world while not being part of its corrupt systems. Theological Implications The apostles' separation from the world is not a call to physical withdrawal but a spiritual and moral distinction. They were to engage with the world, spreading the Gospel and living out the teachings of Christ, yet without conforming to worldly patterns. Romans 12:2 echoes this sentiment: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This non-conformity is a hallmark of Christian discipleship, where believers are called to be "salt and light" (Matthew 5:13-16), influencing the world positively while maintaining their distinct identity in Christ. The apostles exemplified this through their ministry, enduring persecution and hardship as they proclaimed the Gospel. Historical Context The early church, led by the apostles, faced significant opposition from both Jewish and Roman authorities. Their message of Jesus as the Messiah and the call to repentance and faith in Him challenged existing religious and social norms. The apostles' commitment to their divine mission often resulted in alienation and hostility from the world, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles and the epistles. Practical Application For contemporary believers, the apostles' example serves as a reminder of the call to live distinctively in a world that often opposes Christian values. This involves a commitment to truth, holiness, and love, as well as a willingness to endure suffering for the sake of the Gospel. The apostles' lives encourage Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in God's protection and provision as they navigate the challenges of living in a fallen world. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 15:19If you were of the world, the world would love his own: but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 17:16 Library Heracleon's view that the Logos is not the Agent of Creation. The Opinion of the Apostles on Veiling the Mysteries of the Faith. Although, Even if There Went Before no Testimonies Concerning ... The World was not Formed by Angels, or by any Other Being ... The Apostolic Experience The Necessity for Praying Men The Extension of the Church Throughout the World His Place in History Christ as Light; How He, and How his Disciples are the Light of ... The Apostles Chosen Resources Does the Bible record the death of the apostles? How did each of the apostles die? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the super-apostles Paul mentions in 2 Corinthians 11:5? | GotQuestions.org What are the Apocryphal Acts of the Apostles? | 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 The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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