Truth Unites The Papacy Is Not From God
Oct 15, 2025
Gavin Ortlund argues that the papacy is a human construct rather than a divine institution. He emphasizes the lack of clear succession in the New Testament and analyzes early church dynamics, highlighting collective leadership over singular authority. Ortlund examines pivotal scriptures and historical developments, such as the controversial emergence of papal infallibility and the role of councils. He questions the desire for an infallible voice in Christian unity, suggesting that it may ultimately hinder genuine connection among believers.
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No Petrine Office In The New Testament
- The New Testament contains no notion of a Petrine office or a Roman bishop with universal jurisdiction.
- If such an office existed, we'd expect clear New Testament or immediate post‑New Testament echoes, but none appear.
Peter As Representative, Not Supreme
- Peter functioned as an apostolic leader and spokesperson, not as a supreme, infallible head over other apostles.
- Early patristic readings generally treat Peter's role as representative or shared among the apostles.
Council Of Acts 15 Shows Collegial Decision
- Acts 15 (the Jerusalem council) shows apostles resolving doctrine collegially, not by deferring to Peter alone.
- James even speaks decisively there, undermining claims that Peter exercised exclusive jurisdiction.
