What apostolic succession can mean
The historical claim combines continuity of apostolic teaching, local pastoral office, public appointment, sacramental ministry, and communion among churches. Sources for these dimensions are not all the same kind or equally early.
Key points
- A named list follows a see's office holders; it is not automatically a chain naming each consecrator.
- Early writers test succession against the public apostolic faith, not against names alone.
- Some Christian traditions make historic episcopal ordination central; others emphasize continuity of apostolic doctrine and mission without requiring that polity.
Primary sources
Irenaeus argues:
Irenaeus treats public succession of episcopal ministers as evidence against secret apostolic teaching.
we are in a position to reckon up those who were by the apostles instituted bishops in the Churches
Passage context and translation
Irenaeus appeals to the public succession of bishops against claims of secret apostolic teaching.
Before the excerpt
the tradition of the apostles manifested throughout the whole world; and
After the excerpt
and [to demonstrate] the succession of these men to our own times
The Roman church writes:
First Clement supplies an earlier witness to apostolic appointment of bishops and deacons.
they appointed the first fruits [of their labours], having first proved them by the Spirit, to be bishops and deacons
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.