If the word ‘apostle’ did not convey authority in the early church, why did Paul say, “I am the least of the Apostles, and unworthy to be considered one?”
This question is not on point. Of course Paul could speak "authoritatively", he was an apostle. And, he was not appointed by anyone other than God. If anything, that would fly in the face of establishing a hierarchy of churchdom and men who had "authority" over believing congregations. Paul also noted he was the chief among sinners. If all are sinners, did he mean he runs all people in the world? Please stay on the point.