The concept of apostolic rights refers to the privileges and authority granted to the apostles by Jesus Christ and recognized within the early Christian church. These rights encompass the authority to preach, teach, establish churches, and exercise spiritual oversight. The New Testament provides several passages that elucidate these rights, primarily through the ministry and writings of the Apostle Paul.

1. Authority to Preach and Teach

The apostles were commissioned by Jesus to spread the Gospel and teach all nations. In Matthew 28:18-20, known as the Great Commission, 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 passage underscores the divine authority bestowed upon the apostles to preach and teach.

2. Right to Receive Support

The apostolic right to receive material support from the church is articulated by Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:4-14. Paul defends his right to receive support, stating, "Do we not have the right to food and drink? ... In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel" (1 Corinthians 9:4, 14). This passage affirms the principle that those who labor in the ministry are entitled to financial and material support from the community they serve.

3. Authority to Establish Church Order

Apostolic authority extends to the establishment of church order and discipline. In 1 Corinthians 12:28, Paul writes, "And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those with gifts of healing, helping, guidance, and different kinds of tongues." This hierarchy indicates the foundational role of apostles in organizing and guiding the early church.

4. Spiritual Oversight and Correction

The apostles were entrusted with the responsibility of spiritual oversight and correction within the church. In 2 Corinthians 10:8, Paul asserts, "For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed." This authority includes the right to correct and guide the church in matters of doctrine and practice.

5. Signs and Wonders as Validation

The apostles' authority was often validated through signs and wonders. In 2 Corinthians 12:12, Paul states, "The true marks of an apostle—signs, wonders, and miracles—were performed among you with great perseverance." These miraculous acts served as divine confirmation of their apostolic calling and authority.

6. Apostolic Succession and Delegation

While the original apostles held unique authority, the New Testament also suggests a form of apostolic succession and delegation. 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 passage indicates the transmission of apostolic teaching and authority to subsequent church leaders.

The scriptural support for apostolic rights highlights the unique role and authority of the apostles in the early church, as well as the enduring principles of leadership and governance within the Christian community.