Definition of Evangelical

[demi-conservative]

Does this mean all directives and promises spoken only to The Twelve (or The Eleven) apply only to them?

For instance, since no one else was present at the Last Supper, does that mean "I am the Vine, you are the branches" applied only to them?

Contextualisation and careful exegesis is critical, because undeniably the Eleven were given special promises, duties, and powers. This is a particularly challenging passage to analyse for this purpose.

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full."

Off the cuff and without much deep study: clearly the context of verses 1 and 2 are the other famous 'I am" statements in the Gospel. The others apply to all believers, while verse 2 does not have 'you', strongly indicating that it's a general description of all in Christ. However, Verse 3 clearly applies to the Eleven but not future believers. The rest is more complicated, I'll need more time, but it seems that 'whoever' and 'anyone' in verses 5 and 6 suggest a more general description.