Apostolic Succession

Some religions say they trace their lineage back to the apostles, claiming an unbroken chain of succession from the apostles. They believe this apostolic lineage grants them authority and legitimacy. The following are religions that all claim apostolic succession.

The Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Armenian Apostolic Church, Old Catholic Church, Swedish Lutheran Church, and Anglican churches claim apostolic succession.

Biblical passages often cited in support apostolic succession:

Acts 1:20 - Replacement Of Judas

Acts 1:20-26 – For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

UNIQUE EVENT FOR JUDAS' REPLACEMENT

The primary reason for selecting Matthias was to maintain the number 12 apostles to fulfill Jesus' original appointment of 12 (Matthew 10:1-4, Luke 6:13-16). This number symbolically represents the 12 tribes of Israel. After Matthias, there are no instructions for replacing apostles as they die.

NO DIRECT COMMAND FOR SUCCESSION

Nowhere in the New Testament is there a direct command for continuous replacement of apostles as part of church practice. The selection of Matthias is presented as a one-time event to replace Judas, who betrayed Jesus and left his office vacant. Other apostles, like James, die later (Acts 12:2), but there is no indication of replacing them.

ROLE OF APOSTLES

The twelve apostles were eyewitnesses of Jesus' resurrection (Acts 1:22, 1 Corinthians 15:8-9). The qualifications required for apostleship were specific to those who had seen Jesus in person, which makes it difficult to extend this office to future generations who have not had this experience (Acts 1:21-22).

FOUNDATION LAID ALREADY

Paul writes that the church is "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." This suggests that the apostles had a foundational role in the early church, and once the foundation is laid, there is no need for continuous replacement.

1 Corinthians 3:11 – For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

The text itself doesn't explicitly state or even imply that this process would be repeated in the future or establish a system for ongoing succession. It describes a one-time event.

Symbolic Of The 12 Tribes

Genesis 49:28 – All these are the twelve tribes of Israel: and this is it that their father spake unto them, and blessed them; every one according to his blessing he blessed them.

Exodus 24:4 – And Moses wrote all the words of the LORD, and rose up early in the morning, and builded an altar under the hill, and twelve pillars, according to the twelve tribes of Israel.

Numbers 17:2 – Speak unto the children of Israel, and take of every one of them a rod according to the house of their fathers, of all their princes according to the house of their fathers twelve rods: write thou every man's name upon his rod.

Revelation 21:12-14 – And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

Matthew 18:17 - Tell It To The Church

Matthew 18:15-17 – Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

📜CHURCH
ekklēsia (ek-klay-see'-ah)
From a compound of G1537 and a derivative of G2564; a calling out, that is, (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue, or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both): - assembly, church.

In Greek, "ekklēsía" refers to an assembly of citizens gathered for civic purposes. In the New Testament, it became a term for the Christian community. While leaders like elders or overseers were part of the church, the word itself refers to the entire congregation, the collective body of believers, all members of the Christian community, not just the leaders.

This passage deals with conflict resolution within the church, focusing on addressing a brother who sins and the process for resolving it, escalating from a private conversation to a church-wide matter if needed. It emphasizes community discipline and accountability, not authority transfer or succession. It indicates bringing an issue before the whole body of believers, not just the leadership.

Acts 14:23 - Ordained Elders

Acts 14:23 – And when they (Paul and Barnabas) had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

📜ORDAINED
cheirotoneō (khi-rot-on-eh'-o)
From a compound of G5495 and τείνω teinō (to stretch); to be a hand reacher or voter (by raising the hand), that is, (genitive) to select or appoint: - choose, ordain.

This passage highlights the appointment of elders (local church leaders). Paul and Barnabas appointed them in the various churches, ensuring that these new Christian communities would have established leadership. This differs from appointing apostles, as elders were responsible for the governance and pastoral care of the church. The elders were appointed with prayer and fasting, showing that the process was taken seriously and carried out in dependence on God's guidance. This was for building stable, locally led church communities. This does not point to a formalized or unbroken line of succession from the apostles to later church leaders, which is what apostolic succession claims.

1 Timothy 4:14 - Timothy's Ordination

1 Timothy 4:14 – Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

The "gift" mentioned here likely refers to a spiritual gift or an ability for ministry, not necessarily the transfer of apostolic authority. Based on the context of his ministry, it could refer to gifts of preaching, teaching, or pastoral leadership.

2 Timothy 1:6 – Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.

Romans 12:6-8 – Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

The passage doesn’t explicitly talk about an unbroken line of succession from the apostles to later church leaders. It is more focused on Timothy’s personal calling and ministry.

Titus 1:5 - Appoint Elders

Titus 1:5 – For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:

Paul is instructing Titus to appoint elders (leaders) in local churches. It shows an example of apostolic delegation for establishing church leadership, but it doesn’t explicitly prove apostolic succession in the sense that successors would have the same authority as the original apostles.

These passages suggest a structure of leadership and continuation of ministry, not the authority of apostles being passed down.

Ephesians 4:11 - Hierarchy

Ephesians 4:11-12 – And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

This verse describes various roles within the church: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, but it does not explicitly establish a hierarchical structure where these roles exercise authority over one another. Instead, the passage focuses on the purpose of these roles, which is to equip the saints for ministry and to build up the body of Christ. The passage emphasizes service, instruction, and edification rather than establishing a strict, top-down hierarchy with formal authority over doctrine, morals, or discipline.

The roles mentioned certainly involve spiritual authority in the sense of guiding and teaching the church. However, this authority is more about serving and building up the community, equipping and preparing all believers to serve and grow in their faith.

Bishop

The Greek word "episkopē" appearing in both Acts and Timothy, does not suggest that the roles of apostle and bishop are the same.

Acts 1:20 – For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick (position, office) [episkopē] let another take.

1 Timothy 3:1 – This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop [episkopē], he desireth a good work.

Bishops were not successors of apostles, they are not the same greek word.

Ephesians 4:11 – And he gave some, apostles (apostolos); and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

The Greek term ἐπισκοπή (episkopē) is indeed used in both Acts and Timothy, but its application in these contexts does not necessarily equate the role of a bishop with that of an apostle.

📜 BISHOP episkopē (ep-is-kop-ay')
From G1980; inspection (for relief); by implication superintendence; specifically the Christian “episcopate”: - the office of a “bishop”, bishoprick, visitation.

In Acts, episkopē refers to the "office" or "position" that Judas Iscariot held among the apostles. After Judas's betrayal and death, the remaining apostles sought to fill his vacancy to restore their number to twelve. The term is used to denote the apostolic office that needed to be occupied. The focus is on replacing Judas in the apostolic ministry.

In Timothy, episkopē describes the "office of a bishop" or "overseer." Here, the term outlines the role and responsibilities associated with being a bishop, in other words the episcopal office. The emphasis is on the qualifications and duties of a bishop.

Apostles: The original apostles were those chosen by Jesus Christ to witness His resurrection and to spread the Gospel. They held a unique position in the early Church.

Bishops (Overseers): As the Church expanded, the role of bishops emerged to provide leadership and oversight to local congregations. While the apostles appointed bishops as successors to continue their work, the term "bishop" (episkopos) and "apostle" (apostolos) became distinct roles within the Church hierarchy.

Therefore, while the term episkopē is associated with both apostles and bishops, its usage does not necessarily conflate the two roles. The context of each passage clarifies the specific office being referred to, and the early Church recognized a distinction between apostolic and episcopal functions.

Debunking Apostolic Succession

Message Vs Messenger

The Bible doesn't explicitly outline a system of succession, nor does the Bible support the notion that apostolic succession guarantees the status of the true church. The emphasis is often on faithfulness to apostolic teaching rather than a linear succession of office or specific lineage. The importance is of faith in Christ and adherence to His teachings.

Church Foundation

The church is built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone, suggesting that the church's authority is rooted in Christ rather than a human lineage.

Ephesians 2:19-20 – Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

Faith Given Once

The teachings of the Christian faith was given only once. This means the essential truths of Christianity were already established and revealed, passed down (delivered) to the early believers (the saints).

Jude 1:3 – Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

📜 FAITH pistis (pis'-tis)
From G3982; persuasion, that is, credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly constancy in such profession; by extension the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself: - assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.

Faithful Transmission Of The Gospel Message

Paul instructs Timothy to pass on the teachings and instructions he has received to reliable individuals who can continue the work of teaching others. This reflects the principle of discipleship and the continuity of sound doctrine in the church.

2 Timothy 2:2 – And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

1 Timothy 4:16 – Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

Acts 2:42 – And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

These verses does not refer to a hierarchical succession of apostolic authority but rather the faithful transmission of the gospel message. Paul’s concern is that the true teachings of Christ are preserved through reliable teaching.

Role Of Leaders

Peter speaks to elders (pastors), but not in the sense that they carry the same apostolic authority, but rather as shepherds of local churches. The authority described here is not the same as the foundational authority of the apostles.

1 Peter 5:1-3 – The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

Royal Priesthood

All believers are a royal priesthood, indicating that the priestly role is available to all Christians, not just those in a succession line.

1 Peter 2:9 – But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Other Apostles

THE APOSTLE PAUL

Paul was chosen directly by Jesus (Acts 9:15) and was not appointed by human succession, which further weakens the idea that apostolic office must always be filled through human election.

Romans 1:1 – Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

BARNABAS

Barnabas is listed alongside Paul as an apostle during their missionary work. He was known for his encouragement and leadership in the early church.

Acts 14:14 – Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,

JAMES

James, the brother of Jesus (not to be confused with James, the son of Zebedee, one of the Twelve), was also considered an apostle.

Galatians 1:19 – But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother.

ANDRONICUS & JUNIA

Paul mentions Andronicus and Junia, a pair of early Christians, as noteworthy apostles. This passage is debated, but it suggests that either Andronicus and Junia were considered apostles or highly esteemed by the apostles.

Romans 16:7 – Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

SILAS (SILVANUS) & TIMOTHY (TIMOTHEUS)

Silas (along with Timothy) is included in the group of apostles by Paul's reference to "we" as apostles when speaking of their ministry.

1 Thessalonians 1:1 – Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Thessalonians 2:6 – Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

APOLLOS

Apollos is not directly referred to as an apostle, but he functioned similarly to other apostles in spreading the gospel and teaching. He was a prominent figure in the early church.

1 Corinthians 1:12 – Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.

Apollos might be included in the broader sense of the term “apostles”.

1 Corinthians 4:6,9 – And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another… For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.

MEANING OF APOSTLE

In the early church, the term "apostle" could be used for those sent by the church as missionaries to spread the Gospel.

📜 APOSTLE apostolos (ap-os'-tol-os)
From G649; a delegate; specifically an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ (“apostle”), (with miraculous powers): - apostle, messenger, he that is sent.

Acts 13:2-3 – As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

Beyond the Twelve, the word "apostle" began to take on a broader meaning to include people who were entrusted with leadership and missionary roles, although they didn’t have the same foundational authority as the Twelve.

Verses Refuting Apostolic Succession

Acts 20:28-30 – Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

Paul warns that even from within the leadership, false teachers would arise. This undermines the idea that succession guarantees the transmission of true teaching. Rather, authority is validated by adherence to sound doctrine.

2 Peter 1:14-15 – Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me. Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.

Peter’s focus was on preserving teachings, not appointing successors to hold institutional authority. There is no reference to a clear succession plan or a necessity of an unbroken chain of leadership authority.

Ephesians 2:19-20 – Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

This verse emphasizes Christ as the ultimate foundation of the Church and suggests that the "foundation of the apostles" refers to their teaching, not an ongoing hierarchical succession of their authority. The "foundation" is seen as once-laid and not continuously relayed through generations of leaders.

1 Peter 2:5,9 – Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ… But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

These passages support the idea that all Christians share in the priesthood through faith in Christ, rather than needing a specific class of ordained individuals to mediate between God and the people. This challenges the necessity of a hierarchical structure with apostolic succession for the transmission of authority.

Acts 20:28-30 – Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

This passage shows that church leadership is entrusted by the Holy Spirit, not through a formal lineage. Some interpret this as emphasizing the spiritual appointment of leaders rather than a continuous line of succession from the apostles.

Galatians 1:11-12 – But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Paul emphasizes that his authority comes directly from Christ, not from any human lineage or apostolic line. This is often used to argue that true apostolic authority derives from divine calling and revelation rather than from an institutional succession.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 – All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Scripture alone is sufficient for the Church’s teaching and governance, without the need for an unbroken chain of apostolic authority. This undermines the necessity of apostolic succession for maintaining the true faith and authority within the Church.

Colossians 1:18 – And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

This verse underscores that Christ is the head of the Church, rather than any human authority figure. Those who challenge apostolic succession emphasize Christ's direct leadership over the Church, rather than any human hierarchy or succession.

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Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.

- The Christian King