APOSTLE properly signifies a messenger or person sent by another upon some business; and hence, by way of eminence, denotes one of the twelve disciples commissioned by Jesus Christ to preach the gospel.

The apostles are usually represented with their respective badges: Thus Peter is painted with the keys; Paul, with a sword; Andrew, with a cross; James the greater, with a pilgrim's staff; James the less, with a fuller's pole; John, with a cup and winged serpent flying out of it; Bartholomew, with a knife; Philip, with a long staff, the upper end of which is formed into a cross; Thomas, with a lance; Matthew, with a hatchet; Matthias, with a battle-axe; Simon, with a saw; and Jude, with a club.

APOSTLES' creed. See Creed.

APOSTLES ointment. See Ointment.