Faith without religion.
Navigating Apostolic Authority: From Paul to Protestants
In a recent discussion on the complexities of early Christianity, the focus was on the role of Paul as an apostle and the interpretation of his writings within the church. The conversation delved into the debate over whether Paul’s writings should be considered scripture, as some Christians reject his teachings, preferring to focus solely on the words of Jesus. This debate is further complicated by the historical context of how Paul’s role as an apostle to the Gentiles was established, despite his Jewish heritage.
The discussion also touched on the early church’s decision to replace Judas with Matthias as the twelfth apostle, raising questions about whether Paul was the true twelfth apostle or an additional thirteenth. This distinction is significant in understanding the authority and legitimacy of apostleship, which traditionally required a direct encounter with the risen Christ.
The conversation expanded to explore the evolution of Christian denominations, from the early church fathers to the schism between Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, and the subsequent Protestant Reformation led by figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin. The Protestant emphasis on scripture as the sole authority was contrasted with the Catholic reliance on tradition and papal authority.
The dialogue highlighted the ongoing struggle within Christianity to balance scriptural interpretation with spiritual understanding, emphasizing the need for love and compassion as central tenets of faith. The discussion concluded with a reflection on the importance of viewing historical religious developments as part of a collective journey toward a more inclusive and understanding faith.