Needing to be called “Apostle,” “Prophet” or any other exalted title is a sure sign you ain’t one.

And please …

Don’t tell me how Paul called himself an “Apostle,” because – seriously – you’re no Paul.

Plus, in the language of his day that wasn’t a title but simply a function …

Describing anyone serving – while on mission – as another’s representative.

And it wasn’t an exalted role, but usually referred to the lowest slaves who were used as menial messengers …

Because they were the least essential and most expendable.

Perhaps that explains why we don’t see any so-called “Apostles” today who meet Paul’s job description:

“Instead, I sometimes think God has put us apostles on display, like prisoners of war at the end of a victor’s parade, condemned to die. We have become a spectacle to the entire world – to people and angels alike. Our dedication to Christ makes us look like fools, but you claim to be so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are so powerful! You are honored, but we are ridiculed. Even now we go hungry and thirsty, and we don’t have enough clothes to keep warm. We are often beaten and have no home. We work wearily with our own hands to earn our living. We bless those who curse us. We are patient with those who abuse us. We appeal gently when evil things are said about us. Yet we are treated like the world’s garbage, like everybody’s trash – right up to the present moment.” 1 Cor. 4:9-13

We have it all backwards:

We designate a local leader and hope a church emerges around them.

In the New Testament, however, Paul started local fellowships first then let leaders emerge within them.

Big difference!