Do the Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints meet the Biblical qualifications for Apostleship?
You decide!
The Bible has clarified what the qualifications are in, order to be an Apostle of the Lord, Jesus Christ. How do the LDS Apostles compare?
Initially, Jesus chose twelve disciples to be His Apostles. After Judas Iscariot died, the resurrected Jesus chose Paul to be an Apostle.
Each Apostleship qualification has multiple scriptural references supporting it. But for the sake of time, I will give only one reference for each requirement.
Let’s get started!
Each of the original twelve Apostles was hand-picked by the Lord (Matthew 10:1-4). Also, Paul (Galatians 1:1).
Each of the original twelve Apostles was taught and trained by Jesus, Himself (John 17:6-8). Also, Paul (Galatians 1:12-17).
Each of the Apostles was an eyewitness to Jesus’ earthly ministry (Acts 10:38-39).
Each of the Apostles was an eyewitness to the glorification of Jesus. (2 Peter 1:16-18).
Each of the original twelve Apostles was called and ordained by Jesus to preach the gospel to the world (Mark 3:14). Also, Paul (Acts 9:15-16).
Each of the original twelve Apostles was given power from Jesus to perform miracles (Matthew 10:1,8). Also, Paul (Acts 19:11).
Each of the Apostles witnessed Jesus’ crucifixion and death (John 19:25-27).
Each of the original twelve Apostles witnessed and testified they saw the resurrected Lord (Acts 1:21-22). Also, Paul (1 Corinthians 9:1).
Each of the Apostles physically touched and handled Jesus’ resurrected body (1 John 1:1-3).
Each of the Apostles were made a spectacle before the world and appointed to die for their witness of Christ (1 Corinthians 4:9-10).
Each of the Apostle’s testimony of what they saw and heard was written and contained in Scripture (Acts 22:15).
Those ancient Apostles became the foundation of the Christ’s Church (Ephesians 2:19-22).
And, finally
Those Apostles were granted a place of honor with their names on the twelve foundation walls of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:14).
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I think it’s obvious those who call themselves modern apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do not meet even one of those qualifications.
In fact, the Bible warns against such men in 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore, it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”
Something to consider! Please share with family and friends. And check out more episodes like this one at Talking to Mormons. com. God Bless!