Apostolic succession is a term that is often used in the context of Christianity. It refers to the idea that the authority and power of the apostles were passed down to their successors, who then passed it on to the next generation of leaders. This concept has been a central part of Christian theology for centuries, and it continues to be an important topic of discussion and debate among theologians and scholars today.
Definitions
Apostolic succession can be defined as the belief that the authority and power of the apostles were passed down to their successors, who then passed it on to the next generation of leaders. This succession is believed to be a necessary part of the church’s continuity and authority.
Another definition of apostolic succession is the belief that the bishops of the church are the direct successors of the apostles, and that they have been entrusted with the same authority and power that the apostles had.
Origin
The idea of apostolic succession has its roots in the early Christian church. The apostles were the first leaders of the church, and they were seen as having a special authority and power that came directly from Jesus Christ. After the death of the apostles, their successors were seen as continuing this authority and power, and passing it on to the next generation of leaders.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Different dictionaries define apostolic succession in different ways. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the uninterrupted transmission of spiritual authority from the apostles through successive bishops.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the doctrine that the authority of the Christian church derives from the apostles, who were given their authority by Jesus Christ.”
Associations
Apostolic succession is closely associated with the Catholic Church, which places a great deal of emphasis on the idea of succession. However, it is also an important concept in other Christian traditions, including the Orthodox Church and some Anglican churches.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for apostolic succession include apostolic continuity, apostolic tradition, and apostolic authority.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for apostolic succession, as it is a specific concept with a unique meaning.
The same root words
The root words of apostolic succession are apostolic and succession. Apostolic refers to the apostles, who were the first leaders of the Christian church. Succession refers to the idea of passing on authority and power from one generation to the next.
Example Sentences
- The Catholic Church places a great deal of emphasis on apostolic succession.
- The Orthodox Church also believes in apostolic succession, but has a slightly different understanding of it.
- Some Protestant churches reject the idea of apostolic succession altogether.
- The bishop of the church is seen as the direct successor of the apostles, and is entrusted with the same authority and power.
- The doctrine of apostolic succession has been a central part of Christian theology for centuries.