Though the word disciples is used throughout 3 Nephi to describe those chosen to minister to the Nephite multitudes, there seems to be no question but that they were Apostle. They were, in fact, disciples, followers of the Christ, before Jesus appeared in America. These were called to be special witnesses and were granted apostolic power (see Moroni 2:2; HC 4:538).
“Blessed Are Ye If Ye Shall Give Heed Unto the Words of These Twelve Whom I Have Chosen from Among You to Minister Unto You”
We honor the Lord by honoring his servants. We receive hint by receiving those whom he has chosen. We open ourselves to the words of eternal life by hearkening to the counsel of those called by revelation to lead us. By way of warning, the Lord explained in his preface to the Doctrine and Covenants:
“And the arm of the Lord shall be revealed; and the day cometh that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord, neither the voice of his servants, neither give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles, shall be cut off from among the people.”(D&C 1:14)
Of the presiding council in the Church, that same Lord later explained:
“Whosoever receiveth my word receiveth me, and whosoever receiveth me, receiveth those, the First Presidency, whom I have sent, whom I have made counselors for my name’s sake unto you” (D&C 112:20).