The Nephite Disciples Were Apostles

“This book [the Book of Mormon] also tells us that our Savior made His appearance upon this continent after His resurrection; … that they had Apostles, Prophets, Pastors, Teachers, and Evangelists; the same order, the same priesthood, the same ordinances, gifts, powers, and blessings, as were enjoyed on the eastern continent” (Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 4:538).

“While in every instance the Nephite Twelve are spoken of as disciples, the fact remains that they had been endowed with divine authority to be special witnesses for Christ among their own people. Therefore, they were virtually apostles to the Nephite race” (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 3:158; see also Mormon 9:18).