In today’s world, misunderstandings about religious beliefs and practices are common, especially among those unfamiliar with specific doctrines. One such misconception is the assertion that the Apostolic Church, or the Apostolic Faith, closely resembles Catholicism or even the "Open Catholic Church." While the two share certain historical and theological roots, they diverge on many critical points. Here, we will explore why the Apostolic Church is unique, highlighting its core beliefs and doctrines that set it apart from Catholicism.
1. Foundation of Belief
The Apostolic Church traces its beliefs directly back to the teachings and practices of the apostles of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the New Testament. Catholicism, while also acknowledging the apostles, has developed its doctrines over centuries, often incorporating traditions and practices not explicitly found in scripture.
Biblical Basis: The Apostolic Church emphasizes a return to the simplicity of the gospel message as preached by the apostles. Acts 2:42 says, “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.” This verse underscores the foundational importance of apostolic teachings, without the added layers of tradition that Catholicism has accumulated over centuries.
2. Authority and Leadership Structure
The Catholic Church is known for its hierarchical structure, with the Pope at the apex as the Vicar of Christ. This model is seen as a direct line of succession from Peter, whom Catholics consider the first Pope. The Apostolic Church, however, does not recognize papal authority. Instead, it maintains a structure of pastoral leadership rooted in the biblical model of elders and deacons (1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9).
Biblical Basis: The New Testament does not record a centralized human figure over the Church. Jesus himself declared in Matthew 23:9, “And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.” This teaching reflects a rejection of hierarchical titles that elevate one believer over another, promoting instead a model of servant leadership.
3. Doctrine of Salvation
Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone is at the heart of Apostolic doctrine. Apostolic believers uphold the biblical teaching that salvation is by grace through faith, without reliance on additional sacraments or works (Ephesians 2:8-9). In contrast, Catholicism incorporates sacraments as essential components of salvation, including baptism, the Eucharist, confession, and more.
Biblical Basis: The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 10:9, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” This verse emphasizes personal faith and confession as the means to salvation, without the necessity of mediating rituals or sacraments.
4. Sacraments and Practices
Catholicism practices seven sacraments, viewed as outward signs of inward grace. The Apostolic Church, however, acknowledges only two ordinances instituted by Christ—baptism and communion. These are symbolic acts of obedience, not means of grace, in alignment with the Bible's teachings.
Biblical Basis: Jesus instructed his disciples to baptize believers as a public declaration of faith (Matthew 28:19-20) and to observe communion in remembrance of Him (1 Corinthians 11:24-26). There is no biblical basis for additional sacraments as essential elements of the Christian faith. Apostolic teaching holds that one’s relationship with God is established through personal faith, not through institutional rituals.
5. The Role of Mary and the Saints
Catholicism holds a unique position on Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the saints, often involving veneration and prayer to these figures as intermediaries. The Apostolic Church teaches that Jesus Christ is the sole mediator between God and humanity, rejecting the practice of praying to saints or venerating Mary.
Biblical Basis: In 1 Timothy 2:5, Paul states clearly, “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” This verse leaves no room for additional mediators, underscoring the direct relationship each believer can have with God through Christ alone.
6. Tradition vs. Scripture
A core difference lies in the authority of scripture versus tradition. Catholicism places tradition on an equal footing with scripture, while the Apostolic Church adheres to sola scriptura, the principle that the Bible alone is the ultimate authority in all matters of faith and practice.
Biblical Basis: Jesus criticized the religious leaders of His day for elevating tradition above God’s commandments (Mark 7:8-9). The Apostolic Church takes this to heart, upholding the sufficiency of scripture in guiding believers. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 affirms, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
7. Worship Practices and Liturgy
The Apostolic Church tends toward a simpler and more spirit-led worship style, often characterized by spontaneous prayer, prophetic utterances, and praise. Catholicism, however, is known for its structured liturgy and ceremonies, which some may find rigid. The Apostolic approach is based on the biblical model of worship seen in the early church, which was more fluid and less formal.
Biblical Basis: In John 4:24, Jesus teaches, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” This instruction reflects the Apostolic Church’s emphasis on a genuine, Spirit-led worship experience, unencumbered by elaborate ritual.
Conclusion
While the Apostolic Church and Catholicism both trace their roots back to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, they have diverged significantly in doctrine and practice. The Apostolic Church, committed to scriptural authority, emphasizes a personal relationship with God, direct access to Christ as the sole mediator, and the simplicity of the gospel message. These key differences highlight that the Apostolic Faith is distinct from Catholicism, rooted in the Bible and the teachings of the early apostles, without the added layers of tradition or hierarchical structure.
As believers, it is essential to hold fast to the teachings that align with scripture, ensuring that our faith is anchored in the truths of God’s Word. As Paul advised in 1 Thessalonians 5:21, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” In doing so, the Apostolic Church remains grounded in the enduring message of the gospel.
From the Episcopal Desk of
+Martin C. Wilson
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