Apostolic succession

Definition

Apostolic succession is the Christian doctrine that asserts that the bishops of the Church are the spiritual successors to the apostles, who were directly appointed by Christ. This belief emphasizes the continuity and legitimacy of Church authority through an unbroken line of ordination from the apostles to present-day bishops. It serves as a foundation for maintaining doctrinal integrity and unity within the Church.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Apostolic succession is crucial for the legitimacy of sacraments like baptism and Eucharist, as they are believed to be valid only if performed by a bishop in apostolic succession.
2. The concept was formally articulated by early Church Fathers such as Irenaeus and Tertullian, who emphasized the importance of maintaining a direct connection to the apostles.
3. Different Christian denominations interpret apostolic succession in various ways; for instance, Roman Catholics view it as essential, while many Protestant groups may not see it as significant.
4. In Catholicism, bishops receive their authority through a ceremony known as consecration, which includes the laying on of hands by other bishops.
5. Apostolic succession is often used to counteract claims made by groups or individuals who assert new revelations or teachings that deviate from traditional Christian doctrine.

Review Questions

• How does apostolic succession support the authority of bishops within the Church?
  • Apostolic succession supports the authority of bishops by establishing a direct line of spiritual leadership traced back to the apostles appointed by Christ. This unbroken chain of ordination ensures that bishops carry the same authority and responsibility as those original apostles, allowing them to uphold and teach authentic Christian doctrine. By grounding their role in this historical context, bishops can effectively guide their congregations in faith and practice.
• Discuss the implications of apostolic succession for the validity of sacraments in different Christian traditions.
  • The implications of apostolic succession for sacramental validity vary significantly among Christian traditions. In Roman Catholicism, sacraments like baptism and Eucharist are deemed valid only when administered by a bishop in apostolic succession, reinforcing the belief that these acts are tied to legitimate authority. Conversely, many Protestant denominations do not emphasize apostolic succession as crucial for sacramental validity, leading to diverse interpretations and practices regarding how sacraments are performed and understood within their communities.
• Evaluate how apostolic succession contributes to maintaining doctrinal integrity within Christianity across different denominations.
  • Apostolic succession plays a pivotal role in maintaining doctrinal integrity within Christianity by providing a historical and authoritative framework for teaching and governance. For traditions that uphold this doctrine, such as Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, it reinforces a unified understanding of key theological principles handed down from Christ through his apostles. However, this concept also creates divisions with denominations that reject or reinterpret apostolic succession, as it raises questions about authority and authenticity in doctrinal teachings. Evaluating these differences reveals not only historical complexities but also ongoing debates about what it means to be part of the Christian faith.

Related terms

Bishop: A bishop is an ordained member of the clergy who holds a position of authority in the Church, responsible for overseeing a diocese and ensuring the continuity of faith and practice.

Sacrament of Holy Orders: The Sacrament of Holy Orders is a sacrament in which individuals are ordained into specific roles within the Church hierarchy, including deacon, priest, and bishop, thereby receiving spiritual authority.

Ecclesiastical Authority: Ecclesiastical authority refers to the power and governance exercised by Church leaders, particularly bishops, over matters of faith, doctrine, and administration within the Church.