Dictionary of Bible Themes » 7000 God's people » 7700 Leadership and the people of God » 7706 apostles » 7709 apostles, authority of
Apostolic authority derives directly from Jesus Christ, who commissions apostles. It is rigorously upheld within the church.
Apostolic authority is based on divine commission
Romans 1:5 See also Romans 1:1; 2 Corinthians 1:1; Galatians 1:1; Ephesians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; 1 Timothy 1:1; 2 Timothy 1:1
Apostolic authority derives from Jesus Christ
Matthew 10:40 See also Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 6:7; 2 Peter 3:2
The authority of apostles is related to their ministry role
1 Corinthians 12:28 There appears to be a definite order of priority with apostles at the head. See also Ephesians 4:11
The exercise of apostolic authority within the church
In building up the body
2 Corinthians 13:10 Paul had special authority as founder of this church. See also 2 Corinthians 10:8
In general oversight
Acts 4:34-35; Acts 6:2-6; Acts 15:6,22-23; Acts 16:4
In teaching
1 Thessalonians 4:2 See also Galatians 1:11-12; 1 Thessalonians 2:4; Thessalonians 4:8
In appointing leaders
Acts 14:23
In church discipline
Acts 5:3-4,7-9; 1 Corinthians 5:3-5
The right to be supported
1 Thessalonians 2:6 Paul did not demand such support (see 1Th 2:9). See also 1 Corinthians 9:4,11-14; 2 Corinthians 11:7-9
The marks of a true apostle
False apostles exist
1 Corinthians 9:2 See also 2 Corinthians 11:4-5; Corinthians 12:11
Fruit confirms apostolic ministry
2 Corinthians 3:1-3
Signs confirm apostolic authority
2 Corinthians 12:12 See also Mark 16:20; Acts 5:12; Romans 15:19
See also
1449 signs, purposes 5215 authority 7026 church, leadership 7939 ministry
