Apostolic Authority

Apostolic authority refers to the divinely granted power and responsibility bestowed upon the apostles by Jesus Christ to lead, teach, and govern the early Christian Church. This authority is rooted in the commission given by Christ Himself, as recorded in the New Testament. The apostles were chosen by Jesus to be His primary witnesses and to lay the foundation of the Church through their teaching and leadership.

The authority of the apostles is first established in the Gospels, where Jesus calls and commissions them. In Matthew 10:1, Jesus "called His twelve disciples to Him and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to drive them out and to heal every disease and sickness." This authority was not only for miraculous works but also for teaching and establishing doctrine. In Matthew 28:18-20, known as the Great Commission, Jesus further instructs them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

The Book of Acts and the Epistles provide numerous examples of apostolic authority in action. The apostles, particularly Peter and Paul, exercised leadership in preaching, teaching, and making decisions for the Church. In Acts 2, Peter's sermon at Pentecost demonstrates his authority in proclaiming the Gospel, resulting in the conversion of about three thousand souls. The Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15 is another instance where apostolic authority is evident, as the apostles and elders gather to resolve doctrinal disputes regarding Gentile converts.

Apostolic authority also extends to the writing of Scripture. The New Testament books, many of which were authored by apostles or their close associates, carry the weight of apostolic teaching and are considered divinely inspired. Paul, in his letters, often asserts his apostolic authority, as seen in Galatians 1:1, where he states, "Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead."

Apostolic Discipline

Apostolic discipline refers to the measures taken by the apostles to maintain order, purity, and doctrinal integrity within the early Church. This discipline was necessary to address issues of sin, heresy, and division, ensuring that the Church remained faithful to the teachings of Christ.

One of the clearest examples of apostolic discipline is found in Acts 5, with the account of Ananias and Sapphira. When this couple lied about the proceeds from the sale of their property, Peter confronted them, and both fell dead as a result of their deceit. This incident underscores the seriousness with which the apostles viewed sin and the need for honesty and integrity within the Church.

Paul's letters also contain numerous instances of apostolic discipline. In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul addresses a case of sexual immorality within the Corinthian church, instructing them to "hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord" (1 Corinthians 5:5). This disciplinary action was intended to bring about repentance and restoration.

In 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15, Paul advises the church on how to deal with those who do not obey his instructions: "Take note of anyone who does not obey the instructions we have given in this letter. Do not associate with them, so that they may be ashamed. Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as a brother." This approach highlights the balance between correction and love, aiming for the spiritual growth and restoration of the individual.

Apostolic discipline was not only corrective but also protective, safeguarding the Church from false teachings and divisive influences. In Titus 1:10-11, Paul warns against "rebellious people, full of empty talk and deception," instructing Titus to "silence them, because they are upsetting whole households by teaching things they should not teach."

In summary, apostolic authority and discipline were foundational to the establishment and growth of the early Church. The apostles, empowered by Christ, exercised their authority to teach, lead, and correct, ensuring that the Church remained faithful to the Gospel and the teachings of Jesus.