In this book distinguished theologian, teacher and writer Francis Sullivan examines the origins and development of the episcopacy in the early church. One of the issues he concentrates on in particular is the church-dividing character of the question whether bishops are the successors of the apostles by divine institution, with the consequence that valid ministry depends on ordination by bishops in the historical apostolic succession. Ecumenical dialogues have produced no agreement on this matter. On the one hand Catholics, Orthodox and most Anglicans teach that episcopal ordination in the apostolic succession is necessary for valid orders and ministry. But Protestants insist that there is no evidence in the New Testament for a divine institution of the episcopate. Using primary sources, Sullivan explores evidence for the development of the episcopate, first in the New Testament, then in Christian writings up to the middle of the third century. His thought-provoking work will be welcomed by professional theologians and serious students of theology, for whom it will prove to be an important resource for further ecclesiological study.
Product Identifiers
Publisher
Paulist Press International,U.S.
ISBN-13
9780809105342
eBay Product ID (ePID)
94749376
Product Key Features
Book Title
From Apostles to Bishops: the Development of the Episcopacy in the Early Church
Author
Francis A. Sullivan
Format
Hardcover
Language
English
Topic
Christianity
Publication Year
2001
Number of Pages
272 Pages
Dimensions
Item Height
229mm
Item Width
152mm
Item Weight
594g
Additional Product Features
Title_Author
Francis A. Sullivan
Country/Region of Manufacture
United States
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