On Sunday, I highlighted Paul’s use of servitude as a metaphor to help clarify the nature of the Christian life. But that wasn’t the only metaphor Paul emphasizes in Romans 1:1. Alongside being a “slave of Christ” he also points to himself and to us as “sent ones” or apostles. Perhaps we hold the idea of apostleship as being limited to the 12 Apostles (or the disciples + Paul), and in a way those men did hold an office that was unique to them.
 

At the same time, as Christians we are all sent out. And, just like bond-servants (though outside of most of our experience) were well known to Paul’s audience in Rome - so too would the recipients of his letter have been well acquainted with the idea of a “sent one.” 

For Jewish Christians, the High Priest regularly sent out representatives who would announce Temple decisions, rule on legal matters, and speak on his behalf. The High Priest’s sent ones (apostles) were accountable to him directly and did not report to other authorities. 

For Gentile Christians, Caesar regularly sent out representatives as well. Though he did not call them apostles - they were his ambassadors. They were tasked with securing good international relations with neighboring peoples and countries. And while the Roman senate held considerable power, Roman ambassadors answered only to Caesar. 

When an apostle (a sent one from the High Priest) or an ambassador (sent one from Caesar) arrived, they spoke on behalf of the power they represented. Because they were essentially an extension of the individual they represented, an audience with them would be as if you were talking directly to the High Priest or to Caesar himself. Both would travel with a bit of an entourage. Think fancy clothing. VIPs for sure. 

When you think about it - in many ways - this metaphor is almost the exact opposite of a lowly, humble bond-servant. But, these two seemingly contradictory images capture the complexity of following Christ quite well. Like servants, we are to consider others more important than ourselves, but at the same time (because of Who we represent) the way we conduct ourselves is intensely important.  

Our role as Christ’s ambassadors or apostles means that we are expected to be an extension of Him wherever we go. We are to speak and live in such a way that we represent His interests. It’s almost as if, each and every day, we’re on a diplomatic mission. In those first few verses of Romans, Paul tells us that our assignment as sent ones (with the much-needed help of the Holy Spirit) is to establish the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles. 

Two metaphors: Servant and Apostle. Both are challenging. Which of these two depictions of discipleship is more difficult for you to embrace?

Tags: faith, jesus, apostle, servant, ambassador