Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 5
The transcript cites Ignatius of Antioch (AD 105) saying, “I do not, as Peter and Paul, issue commandments unto you. They were apostles”; how does this early statement challenge modern evangelical instincts to treat later leaders, scholars, or pastors as having comparable authority to the apostles?
Another way to ask: Ignatius said he couldn’t command like Peter and Paul because they were apostles. How does that challenge the way we sometimes treat pastors, leaders, or scholars like they have apostle-level authority?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The transcript suggests Ignatius recognized a clear, unrepeatable level of authority belonging to apostles like Peter and Paul—authority even a respected bishop would not claim. That challenges modern habits of treating influential pastors or scholars as if their teaching carries the same weight as apostolic “commandments.”
- Ignatius (around AD 105) says, “I do not, as Peter and Paul, issue commandments unto you. They were apostles.”
- The speaker highlights that Ignatius was “bishop of Antioch,” yet still placed himself below apostolic authority.
- This fits the speaker’s broader claim that apostles were “a unique group…an extension of Jesus’ authority for the church.”
- He cites Ephesians 2:19–20: the church is “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets,” with Christ as “chief cornerstone,” implying foundational authority is not ongoing in the same way.
- The speaker treats apostolic writings as binding: Paul’s letters are “the commandments of the Lord,” which distinguishes them from later Christian writing.