An apostle is someone sent on an important mission to spread a message or teach others about a cause they believe in deeply. The word comes from Greek and means “one who is sent forth.”

In Christianity, the Apostles were the twelve men Jesus chose to be his closest followers and to spread his teachings after his death. Some well-known apostles include Peter, who became a leader of the early church, and Paul, who traveled across the Roman Empire establishing Christian communities. These apostles faced tremendous dangers: they were sometimes imprisoned, beaten, or killed for their beliefs, yet they continued their mission because they felt called to share what they had learned.

Today, someone might be called an apostle of a cause they champion with deep conviction. An environmental scientist who travels the world teaching about endangered species might be called an apostle of conservation. A teacher who dedicates her life to spreading literacy could be described as an apostle of education.

What makes someone an apostle is actively going out into the world to spread a message they believe in, often at personal cost or sacrifice. An apostle carries an idea forward to others with dedication and courage, putting belief into action through teaching and sharing their message.