Chapter 54 - Apostolic Teaching and Tradition

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“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15-16)

The New Testament provides revelation of both apostolic teaching and apostolic tradition. Although often misunderstood, apostolic teaching and tradition are both inspired of God and thus, equally important. Generally, apostolic teaching reveals church doctrine and apostolic tradition guides church practice.

Jesus Christ directly taught and discipled His apostles. They recorded His teaching and taught it to the early church in ancient Jerusalem. Beyond Jerusalem, apostolic teaching and tradition was passed down to faithful men and eventually recorded in the written form known as the New Testament.

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Exhortations and commands to obey apostolic tradition are frequently discovered in the New Testament. (1 Corinthians 4:14-17; 10:31-11:2; 11:16; 11:34; Philippians 4:9; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 3:6-7; Titus 1:5) They provide general patterns for church practice such as the celebration of the Lord’s Supper as a full meal, governance by consensus, gathering predominantly in the intimacy of the small group environment, etc.

The written Word of God, inclusive of both apostolic teaching and tradition, was designed to lead to the Living Word of God, Jesus Christ. (John 1:1-3; 14; Revelation 19:13) He is revealed through apostolic teaching and personally experienced through the practice of apostolic tradition. Both are communicated in the pages of the New Testament and equally important to the health of the church.

Many in the church have recognized the importance of apostolic teaching but have neglected the practice of apostolic tradition. However, when church practice does not originate from apostolic tradition it is not derived from God but merely historical precedent or the traditions of men.

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