The
Apostolic Period
The apostles (sent-out
ones) had the highest
level of authority. Though originally
applied to the Twelve, others gained
recognition as apostles including Paul, Barnabas, Andronicus, Junia, & Epaphroditus. James & Jude, the brothers of Jesus MAY have been among the original 12, but may NOT have been and are regarded as apostles.
(cf. Acts 14:14, Rom. 1:1, 11:13, 16:4. 1 Cor.
1:1, 4:9, 9:1-6, 12:28-29, 15:9. 2 Cor. 1:1, 11:5, 12:11-12. Gal. 1:1,19. Eph. 1:1, 4:11. Phil. 2:25.
Col. 1:1. 1 Tim. 1:1, 2:7, 2 Tim 1:1, 11. Titus 1:1.)