In the realm of Christianity, the role of an apostle holds significant importance, representing individuals chosen by Jesus Christ to spread His teachings and establish His Church. This paper aims to look closely into the crucial aspect of why every apostle should consider being consecrated as a bishop first, even if they have already been affirmed as an apostle. Additionally, the historical examples of apostles who were consecrated as bishops first will be examined, shedding light on their immense influence and the benefits associated with such a path.
Establishing a Solid Ecclesiastical Foundation
By becoming consecrated as a bishop, apostles position themselves at the core of the ecclesiastical system, which further strengthens the foundation of the Church. This consecration ensures a hierarchical structure, providing stability and order within the apostolic ministry.
The problem arises when individuals who claim to be apostles attempt to operate under episcopal protocol. There is a clear difference it the Apostolic order and Ecclesiastical Order.
The Apostolic Order refers to the order established by Jesus Christ, in which He chose apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to spread His teachings and establish His Church. The Ecclesiastical Order refers to the hierarchical structure of the Church, which includes bishops, overseers, elders, ministers, and deacons. The function of the Ecclesiastical Order is to provide stability and order within the ministry. While apostles operate within the Apostolic Order, they must also operate within the Ecclesiastical Order to ensure a well-organized and functioning Church. The consecration of apostles as bishops helps to solidify this Ecclesiastical Order and maintain its proper structure.
💡 We must be cautious of those who operate in Apostolic order and rely heavily on their gifts, but do not acknowledge the importance of having a solid theological foundation. It is crucial to be grounded in biblically supported doctrine. This is a must, not an exception, for the bishop.
Acquiring Pastoral Skills and Leadership Qualities
The process of becoming a bishop enhances an apostle's pastoral skills, enabling them to guide and shepherd the faithful. The responsibilities associated with being a bishop foster essential leadership qualities, such as accountability, empathy, and wisdom.
Strengthening Doctrinal Understanding
Through consecration as a bishop, apostles gain a deeper understanding of the Church's teachings and doctrines, which contributes to their ability to effectively transmit and safeguard the faith. Episcopal formation should be seen as an opportunity for apostles to immerse themselves in theological study and engage in intellectual discourse, enriching their understanding of Christianity.
Historical Examples of Consecrated Apostles
St. Peter, the first Pope and a consecrated bishop, exemplifies the significance of consecration for apostles. His consecration as a bishop granted him the authority to lead the early Christian community and make crucial decisions, shaping the future of the Church. St. Paul, renowned for his missionary zeal and powerful epistles, was consecrated as a bishop and played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity. His consecration allowed him to establish and oversee several faith communities, ensuring the growth and stability of Christian congregations.
The Benefits for Every Apostle
Being consecrated as a bishop before affirming apostleship provides apostles with a higher level of authority and credibility within the Church. This consecration validates and affirms an apostle's calling, enhancing their influence and impact on the faithful. Consecration as a bishop fosters a stronger connection and sense of belonging to the Church. By aligning themselves with the mission and teachings of the Church through consecration, apostles can better serve and support the faith community. The process of becoming a bishop involves comprehensive spiritual formation, preparing apostles for their future apostolic ministry. This formation equips apostles with the necessary skills, knowledge, and virtues to fulfill their duties as spiritual leaders.
Apostles who are not consecrated and immersed in Episcopal order lack a solid ecclesiastical foundation, pastoral skills, and leadership qualities. They may also lack a deep understanding of the Church's teachings and doctrines, which can hinder their ability to effectively transmit and safeguard the faith. Additionally, they may lack the historical and biblical precedence that comes with being consecrated as a bishop. Without these foundations, apostles may struggle to fulfill their duties as spiritual leaders and may not have the same level of authority and credibility within the Church as their fellow clergy.
⚠️ It is concerning to see Apostles who lack an understanding of Episcopal protocol and unknowingly wear garments reserved for Bishops only. We also observe incorrect and cross-pollinated use of Episcopal language by Apostles to describe apostolic functions. (Consecration is Episcopal language, while Affirmation is Apostolic language.) This emphasizes the importance of Apostles first being consecrated as Bishops and properly catechized, to ensure a proper comprehension of the hierarchical structure and order of the Church⚠️
"Clarifying Misconceptions About Apostolic Attire" By Reginald Delman Thompson
Proper Catechism Explained
Becoming consecrated as a bishop and going through catechism with a properly trained and credible Bishop in the faith provides apostles with several benefits. These include an improved understanding of Christian doctrine, increased knowledge of the Bible, a strengthened spiritual life and faith, an enhanced relationship with God and the Church, an improved ability to share the Gospel, and an improved ability to lead and serve others in the Church.
We must be honest: not everyone will accept you as an apostle. Some people do not believe that there are present-day apostles. While it may not matter to some what others think, it is not the way of Christ and is unbecoming of a leader in the house of God, not to care. The Bible teaches us to have a good reputation both inside and outside the church. Therefore, with your credentials as a duly consecrated bishop, you can, as the Apostle Paul said, "become all things to all men.”
Conclusion
The consecration of every apostle as a bishop first, even if they have already been affirmed in their apostolic calling, holds significant advantages and benefits. This process establishes a solid ecclesiastical foundation, enhances pastoral skills and leadership qualities, strengthens doctrinal understanding, and provides historical and biblical precedence. Therefore, every apostle should seriously consider the option of consecration as a bishop first to fully embody their role as spiritual leaders in the Church.
+Martin Wilson
The College of Sacred Servants, President & Co-Founder
Ecclesia Ecumenical Leadership, Presiding Prelate
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