Question:
42.2—In 1 Corinthians 12:28 we read about the gift of apostles. Is there a place for apostles today and if so how are they used?
Answer:
42.2—Scripture does not allow for the continuation of apostles today. Those who were apostles in the beginning of the Church of God were men who had seen the Lord (1 Corinthians 9:1). The Apostle Paul states that he was THE LAST OF ALL (1 Corinthians 15:8) so no one after him has seen the Lord, or is an apostle.
Paul warns us to beware of false apostles already arising amongst the believers (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). These were characterized as ministers of Satan. To see what a real apostle is like, read carefully 2 Corinthians 11:23; 12:19. To see what a false apostle is like, read carefully 2 Corinthians 11:12-22.
Today we still have the full benefit of the apostles’ gifts and ministry preserved for us in the Epistles and The Acts. We have the Holy Spirit to teach us all things. With the completed inspired Scriptures God has provided all we need for today. In the last chapter of Revelation we are told not to add to or take away from the Scripture. An “apostle” today would likely claim power to do that, as many men, including the Pope, have done down through the ages.