Was the Early Church Infallible? No, That's Not How it Works
Nov 22, 2023
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Joshua Charles debates post-apostolic church infallibility in the early church, challenging views of Clement, Ignatius, and Irenaeus. Topics explore early church hierarchy evolution, nuances of infallibility vs. indefectability, bishop roles in Christianity, apostolic succession, and fallibility under Scripture.
Post-apostolic ecclesial infallibility was not endorsed by early church figures like Clement, Ignatius, and Irenaeus, challenging historical assumptions.
The emphasis in early church writings was on fidelity to apostolic teachings rather than claims of ecclesial infallibility, reshaping views on church authority.
Deep dives
Examining the Early Church's View on Infallibility
The podcast delves into the concept of ecclesial infallibility in the early church, contrasting Protestant beliefs with traditional Christian views. The discussion centers on figures like Clement, Ignatius, and Irenaeus, examining whether historical evidence supports the notion of infallibility. By analyzing specific texts, such as Clement's epistle identifying bishop and deacon roles interchangeably, the narrative challenges the idea of post-apostolic ecclesial infallibility.
Challenging Claims of Infallibility in the Early Church Figures
The podcast critiques claims that early Christian leaders like Clement, Ignatius, and Irenaeus endorsed ecclesial infallibility. By dissecting their writings, including passages on presbyters and bishops, the episode refutes assertions of infallible pronouncements. It highlights how these figures emphasized fidelity to apostolic teachings rather than post-apostolic infallibility, reshaping perceptions on the church's authoritative stance.
Navigating the Evolution of Apostolic Succession
The podcast navigates the evolution of apostolic succession, particularly in the writings of Irenaeus and Tertullian, shedding light on the concept's development. By dissecting the notion of bishop and presbyter roles in early Christianity, the episode challenges assumptions of seamless apostolic succession. It highlights the nuanced understanding of ministry transmission and clarifies distinctions in church leadership through historical interpretation.
Analyzing Solo Scriptura and Ecclesial Infallibility
The podcast juxtaposes solo scriptura with post-apostolic ecclesial infallibility, scrutinizing their theological foundations. Through references to key biblical passages and early church fathers, such as Augustine, the narrative contrasts the authority of scripture with claims of infallibility in dogmatic pronouncements. By emphasizing the primacy of scripture over post-apostolic developments, the episode underscores divergent theological trajectories in Christian doctrine.
In this video I respond to Joshua Charles' claim that post-apostolic
ecclesial infallibility was present the early church, as represented by
Clement, Ignatius, and Irenaeus.
Truth Unites exists to promote gospel assurance through theological depth.
Gavin Ortlund (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) serves as senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Ojai.