Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

estore Christ's church and correct doctrines and practices to the earth. - ibid.
-- Thus the view is held with some variation by different churches
Mark A. Copeland
C. THE DOCTRINE DEFENDED...
1. Based on Scripture
a. Mt 16:18 - the assumption is made that apostolic succession is necessary for Jesus’
promise concerning the church to be fulfilled
b. Ac 20:17,28 - from this passage some assume authority to govern the church universal
c. 2 Ti 2:2 - this passage is offered as proof of apostolic succession
2. Based on tradition
a. The Church Fathers, who were links in that chain of succession, regularly appealed to
apostolic succession as a test for whether Catholics or heretics had correct doctrine.
- Catholic Answers
b. Those who argued for the doctrine apostolic succession include:
1) Irenaeus (A.D. 189)
2) Tertullian (A.D. 200)
3) Cyprian of Carthage (A.D. 253)
4) Jerome (A.D. 396)
5) Augustine (A.D. 397)
-- See http://www.catholic.com/library/Apostolic_Succession.asp for quotes
[The doctrine of apostolic succession certainly has it advocates. But it is a doctrine with problems upon
close examination...]
II. THE PROBLEM WITH APOSTOLIC SUCCESSION
A. THE DOCTRINE DEVALUED...
1. Based on Scripture
a. Mt 16:18 - if the church universal is the mystical body of Christ, it’s continuation is not
dependent upon a physical succession of church leaders; it requires only the Head
(Christ) and members (Christians)
b. Ac 20:17,28 - this passage only authorizes the authority of elders (bishops) over a local
congregation; no authority is given over the church universal
c. 2 Ti 2:2 - a succession of teachers was the goal; nothing in this passage supports an
unbreakable succession of leaders whose authority was to be unquestioned
d. Ac 12:1-2 - when the apostles James was beheaded, no successor was appointed to
replace him
2. Based on history
a. The appeal to apostolic succession did not appear before A.D. 170-200 - Elwell
Evangelical Dictionary
b. All early succession lists were compiled late in the second century - ibid.
c. It was developed as a means to counter Gnostic and other heresies
d. It became a convenient way to assert validity and authority, taking precedent over
appealing to the Word of God
-- Today, different churches use their “succession lists” to prove their claim to be the
true church; which one are we to believe?
B. THE DOCTRINE DESTRUCTED...
1. An apostasy was foretold by the apostles - 1 Ti 4:1-3; 2 Th 2:1-3; 2 Pe 2:1-3
Topical Sermons 17