Definition and Origin:
Apostolic authority refers to the divinely ordained power and responsibility given to the apostles by Jesus Christ to lead, teach, and establish the early Church. This authority is rooted in the calling and commissioning of the apostles, as recorded in the New Testament. The term "apostle" comes from the Greek word "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent out." The apostles were chosen by Christ to be His primary messengers and representatives on earth.

Biblical Foundation:
The foundation of apostolic authority is found in the Gospels, where Jesus calls and commissions the twelve apostles. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus appoints the twelve "that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach" (Mark 3:14). This calling is further emphasized in the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His apostles to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19).

Characteristics of Apostolic Authority:
1. Divine Commissioning: Apostolic authority is not self-assumed but is granted by Christ Himself. In John 20:21, Jesus says, "As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you" , indicating the divine origin of their mission.

2. Teaching and Doctrine: The apostles were entrusted with the teaching of Christ's doctrine. Acts 2:42 notes that the early believers "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching" , highlighting the centrality of apostolic instruction in the early Church.

3. Miraculous Signs: Apostolic authority was often confirmed through miraculous signs and wonders. In 2 Corinthians 12:12, Paul states, "The signs of an apostle were performed among you with great perseverance, signs, wonders, and miracles" .

4. Church Governance: The apostles played a crucial role in the governance and organization of the early Church. They were involved in making key decisions, such as the appointment of deacons (Acts 6:1-6) and the resolution of doctrinal disputes (Acts 15:6-29).

5. Scriptural Contribution: Many apostles contributed to the New Testament writings, which are considered authoritative Scripture. The apostle Paul, for example, wrote numerous epistles that form a significant portion of the New Testament canon.

The Calling of an Apostle:
The calling of an apostle is marked by a personal encounter with the risen Christ and a direct commission from Him. The apostle Paul, though not one of the original twelve, describes his calling in Galatians 1:1, stating, "Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father" . This underscores the divine nature of the apostolic calling.

Role in the Early Church:
The apostles were foundational to the establishment and growth of the early Church. Ephesians 2:20 describes the Church as "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone" . Their teachings, leadership, and writings were instrumental in shaping Christian doctrine and practice.

Continuation and Legacy:
While the original apostolic office is unique and unrepeatable, the legacy of apostolic authority continues through the teachings and traditions they established. The New Testament writings serve as the enduring testament to their authority and continue to guide the Church in faith and practice.

Contemporary Understanding:
In contemporary Christianity, apostolic authority is often understood in terms of adherence to the teachings of the apostles as recorded in Scripture. The concept of apostolic succession, held by some Christian traditions, posits that the authority of the apostles is passed down through successive generations of church leaders. However, the primary emphasis remains on the authority of the apostolic writings as the foundation for Christian belief and practice.