The authority of apostolic teaching is a foundational concept within Christian theology, emphasizing the role of the apostles as divinely appointed messengers and teachers of the Gospel. This authority is rooted in the commission given by Jesus Christ and is affirmed through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Biblical Foundation

The authority of the apostles is established in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ explicitly commissions them to spread His teachings. 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 authoritative teachers of Christ's commands.

In John 20:21-23 , Jesus further empowers the apostles, saying, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you." He then breathes on them and says, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you withhold forgiveness from anyone, it is withheld." This passage highlights the spiritual authority bestowed upon the apostles, including the authority to forgive sins.

Apostolic Teaching and the Early Church

The early church recognized the authority of apostolic teaching as foundational to its doctrine and practice. Acts 2:42 states, "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." This devotion indicates the centrality of apostolic instruction in the life of the early Christian community.

The apostles' teachings were considered authoritative because they were believed to be inspired by the Holy Spirit. In 2 Peter 1:20-21 , it is written, "Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture comes from one's own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever brought about through human initiative, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." This passage affirms the divine inspiration behind the apostles' teachings.

Pauline Authority

The Apostle Paul, though not one of the original twelve, is recognized as an apostle due to his encounter with the risen Christ and his subsequent commission. In Galatians 1:11-12 , Paul asserts, "I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ." Paul's writings, which constitute a significant portion of the New Testament, are thus regarded as authoritative apostolic teaching.

Preservation and Transmission

The authority of apostolic teaching has been preserved through the canon of the New Testament. The early church fathers and councils recognized the writings of the apostles and their close associates as divinely inspired and authoritative for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).

The transmission of apostolic teaching continues through the faithful preaching and teaching of Scripture within the church. In 2 Timothy 2:2 , Paul instructs Timothy, "And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others." This directive underscores the ongoing responsibility to preserve and disseminate apostolic doctrine.

Conclusion

The authority of apostolic teaching remains a cornerstone of Christian faith and practice, providing a divinely inspired foundation for understanding and living out the Gospel. Through the Scriptures, the teachings of the apostles continue to guide and instruct believers in the truth of Jesus Christ.