Covenant Reformed News – January 2021 • Volume XVIII, Issue 9
This article examines Paul's apostolic authority in 2 Corinthians 10-13, establishing that apostolic office was the highest New Testament position with unique legal authority to speak and act in Christ's name. The author argues that this apostolic authority was limited to the original apostles and their successors, and anyone claiming apostolic authority today is a usurper and liar. The piece serves as a defense against false claims of apostolic authority in the contemporary church.
Apostolic Teaching Authority In II Corinthians 10-13, the apostle Paul battles with false apostles and their followers in Corinth. These false apostles did two things. First, they elevated themselves as if they were great ones in the church. Second, they denigrated Paul as unimposing and inarticulate. In fact, he was not really an apostle at all! Paul begins II Corinthians by reminding the church of his apostolic authority (1:1). Earlier, while an unbeliever, he had been given authority by...