Philip James
Well-Known Member
Just Anyone can say, "I'm approved by the Apostles!" It's pretty convenient because none of them are here to say otherwise
Hello marks,
Indeed. Which is why the Church only recognizes those who have been approved (ordained) by a valid bishop as members of the presbytery, and by bishops to the episcopate.
This is the Tradition of the apostles, as one will find in all the apostolic communities, as St Ignatius, bishop of Antioch (circa 100 AD) demonstrates here:
shun divisions, as the beginning of evils.
Do ye all follow your bishop, as Jesus Christ followed
the Father, and the presbytery as the Apostles; and to
the deacons pay respect, as to God's commandment. Let
no man do aught of things pertaining to the Church
apart from the bishop. Let that be held a valid
eucharist which is under the bishop or one to whom he
shall have committed it.
8:2 Wheresoever the bishop shall appear, there let
the people be; even as where Jesus may be, there is
the universal Church.
(Letter to the Smyrneans)
Peace!