What is apostolic succession?

Apostolic succession is a theological concept that holds significant importance in the understanding of ecclesiology, particularly in the context of church authority and continuity. It refers to the unbroken transmission of spiritual authority from the apostles of Jesus Christ directly to the bishops and leaders of the Church through a continuous line of ordination. This concept is rooted in the belief that the apostles, who were chosen and commissioned by Christ himself, passed on their authority to their successors, who then passed it on to subsequent generations.

The idea of apostolic succession finds its basis in several New Testament scriptures. For example, in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus commissions the apostles with the Great Commission: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV). This commission implies a transfer of authority and responsibility from Jesus to the apostles. Furthermore, in the Acts of the Apostles, we see the apostles appointing leaders to continue their work. In Acts 1:20-26, Matthias is chosen to replace Judas Iscariot, indicating an early example of apostolic succession.

The early Church Fathers also emphasized the importance of apostolic succession. For instance, Irenaeus of Lyons, writing in the second century, argued that the true teaching and authority of the Church could be found in those bishops who could trace their ordination back to the apostles. In his work "Against Heresies," Irenaeus wrote, "It is within the power of all, therefore, in every Church, who may wish to see the truth, to contemplate clearly the tradition of the apostles manifested throughout the whole world; and we are in a position to reckon up those who were by the apostles instituted bishops in the Churches, and [to demonstrate] the succession of these men to our own times" (Irenaeus, Against Heresies, Book III, Chapter 3).

The concept of apostolic succession is particularly emphasized in the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican traditions. These traditions hold that the bishops are the successors of the apostles and that this succession is essential for maintaining the integrity and unity of the Church. The Roman Catholic Church, for example, teaches that the pope, as the Bishop of Rome, is the direct successor of the Apostle Peter, who was given a special role by Christ as the leader of the apostles (Matthew 16:18-19).

In the Roman Catholic tradition, the sacrament of Holy Orders is the means by which apostolic succession is maintained. During the ordination of a bishop, the laying on of hands by other bishops who themselves are in the line of apostolic succession is a crucial element. This act of laying on of hands is believed to confer the Holy Spirit and the authority that was originally given to the apostles. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, "The Church, through the bishop, confers the sacrament of Holy Orders on priests and deacons. This sacrament is conferred by the laying on of hands followed by a solemn prayer of consecration asking God to grant the ordinand the graces of the Holy Spirit required for his ministry" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1597).

While apostolic succession is a foundational concept in certain Christian traditions, it is viewed differently by others. Many Protestant denominations, for instance, do not emphasize apostolic succession in the same way. Instead, they often focus on the priesthood of all believers and the authority of Scripture. Martin Luther, a key figure in the Protestant Reformation, challenged the necessity of apostolic succession by emphasizing that all baptized Christians share in the priesthood of Christ. He argued that the true Church is defined by the preaching of the Word and the proper administration of the sacraments, rather than by an unbroken line of ordination.

Despite these differing views, the underlying concern of apostolic succession is the preservation of the Church's teaching and authority. Those who advocate for apostolic succession argue that it provides a tangible link to the early Church and ensures the continuity of apostolic teaching. This continuity is seen as a safeguard against doctrinal error and a means of maintaining the unity of the Church.

In addition to its theological significance, apostolic succession also has practical implications for the life of the Church. It provides a framework for the governance and organization of the Church, ensuring that there are recognized leaders who are responsible for teaching, sacramental ministry, and pastoral care. This structure is intended to reflect the order and unity that Christ desired for his Church.

It is worth noting that the concept of apostolic succession is not limited to the ordination of bishops. In many traditions, it also extends to the ordination of priests and deacons, who share in the ministry of the bishop and carry out their own specific roles within the Church. The laying on of hands and the prayer of consecration during these ordinations are seen as vital elements in the continuation of apostolic ministry and authority.

Ultimately, apostolic succession is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been understood and interpreted in various ways throughout Christian history. It raises important questions about the nature of church authority, the continuity of apostolic teaching, and the means by which the Church remains faithful to its mission. While there are diverse perspectives on apostolic succession, the underlying desire to remain connected to the apostolic foundation of the Church is a common thread that runs through many Christian traditions.

In conclusion, apostolic succession is a theological concept that emphasizes the unbroken transmission of spiritual authority from the apostles to the leaders of the Church through a continuous line of ordination. It is rooted in the New Testament and has been affirmed by early Church Fathers and various Christian traditions. While it is particularly emphasized in the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican traditions, it is viewed differently by many Protestant denominations. Regardless of these differences, the concept of apostolic succession highlights the importance of maintaining the continuity of apostolic teaching and authority within the Church.