Apostolic is a term that is commonly used in religious contexts. It is often associated with Christianity and refers to the teachings and practices of the apostles of Jesus Christ. However, the term has a broader meaning that extends beyond religion. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of apostolic, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
The term apostolic can be defined in several ways. One definition refers to the teachings and practices of the apostles of Jesus Christ. Another definition refers to the succession of bishops in the early Christian Church who were believed to have been appointed by the apostles. In a broader sense, apostolic can refer to anything that is related to the apostles or their teachings.
Origin
The word apostolic comes from the Greek word apostolos, which means “one who is sent.” The term was first used in the early Christian Church to describe the apostles of Jesus Christ who were sent out to spread the gospel. Over time, the term came to be associated with the succession of bishops who were believed to have been appointed by the apostles.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of apostolic can vary depending on the dictionary. In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, apostolic is defined as “of or relating to an apostle.” In the Oxford English Dictionary, apostolic is defined as “of or relating to the apostles or their teachings.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines apostolic as “relating to the early Christian Church and its leaders.”
Associations
Apostolic is often associated with Christianity and the teachings of the apostles of Jesus Christ. It is also associated with the early Christian Church and the succession of bishops who were believed to have been appointed by the apostles. In a broader sense, apostolic can be associated with anything that is related to the apostles or their teachings.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for apostolic include:
- Apostolate.
- Apostleship.
- Missionary.
- Evangelical.
- Prophetic.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for apostolic, but some words that could be considered the opposite of apostolic include:
- Non-apostolic.
- Secular.
- Worldly.
The same root words
Some words that share the same root as apostolic include:
- Apostolical.
- Apostolically.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the word apostolic:
- The apostolic teachings of Jesus Christ have been passed down through the ages.
- The apostolic succession of bishops is an important part of the Catholic Church.
- The apostolic mission of the early Christian Church was to spread the gospel to all nations.
- The apostolic faith is based on the teachings of the apostles of Jesus Christ.
- The apostolic tradition of the Eastern Orthodox Church is different from that of the Roman Catholic Church.