First Clement 42–44: appointment and continuity

Episkopos · Apostolic Succession

The Roman church's letter to Corinth argues that the apostles appointed ministers and provided for approved successors. It objects to the removal of leaders who had served blamelessly.

Primary sources

The church of Rome writes to Corinth:

First Clement traces the appointment of bishops and deacons to apostolic missionary practice.

they appointed the first fruits [of their labours], having first proved them by the Spirit, to be bishops and deacons
— Church of Rome, traditionally associated with Clement of Rome, First Clement (First Epistle to the Corinthians) (Chapter 42), trans. John Keith

Passage context and translation

The Roman church’s letter, traditionally associated with Clement, appeals to apostolic commissioning and provision for ministry in chapters 42–44 while opposing the removal of blameless leaders at Corinth.

Before the excerpt

And thus preaching through countries and cities,

After the excerpt

of those who should afterwards believe.

John Keith translation in Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 9; displayed wording is a clause from chapter 42. The letter is traditionally associated with Clement and speaks as the Roman church’s appeal to Corinth.

Sources and further reading

First Clement, chapters 42–44 (Website)

Related records

1 Clement and Roman appeal to Corinth (Timeline Event)
Rome (Church Center)

All records