Apostolic Authority

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 commission given by Christ Himself, as seen in the Gospels. In Matthew 28:18-20 , Jesus declares, "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." This Great Commission underscores the apostles' role as foundational leaders in spreading the Gospel and establishing the Church.

The apostles were uniquely chosen and equipped by Christ. In Mark 3:14-15 , it is recorded, "He appointed twelve of them, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons." This selection and empowerment highlight their distinct role in the early Christian community. The apostolic authority was not self-derived but was a direct extension of Christ's own authority, as He sent them out as His representatives.

The apostolic authority also included the ability to perform miracles and signs, which served to authenticate their message and ministry. In Acts 2:43 , it is noted, "A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs." These miraculous acts were a testament to the divine backing of their mission and message.

Apostolic Mission

The mission of the apostles was to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all nations, establishing the Church and teaching the doctrines of the faith. This mission was both local and global, beginning in Jerusalem and extending to the ends of the earth, as outlined in Acts 1:8 : "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

The apostolic mission was characterized by preaching, teaching, and baptizing new believers. The apostles were tasked with laying the doctrinal foundation of the Church, as seen in Acts 2:42 : "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." This verse highlights the centrality of apostolic teaching in the life of the early Church.

The apostles also played a crucial role in resolving doctrinal disputes and maintaining the unity of the Church. The Jerusalem Council, described in Acts 15, is a prime example of the apostles exercising their authority to address theological controversies and guide the Church in truth.

Furthermore, the apostolic mission involved the appointment of leaders and the establishment of church governance. Paul, an apostle to the Gentiles, instructed Titus in Titus 1:5 , "The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you." This directive underscores the apostles' role in ensuring the continuity and order of the Church through the appointment of qualified leaders.

In summary, apostolic authority and mission were central to the establishment and expansion of the early Church. The apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit, carried out their mission with divine authority, laying the foundation for the Christian faith and ensuring its propagation throughout the world.