noun
- the quality or state of being apostolic; connection to or descent from the apostles of Jesus Christ.
Usage: primarily used in religious and theological contexts; often refers to the authority or legitimacy of Christian churches claiming direct succession from the apostles
Examples
- The Catholic Church emphasizes the apostolicity of its bishops through the doctrine of apostolic succession.
- Early Christian communities valued apostolicity as a mark of authentic doctrine.
- Scholars debate the apostolicity of certain New Testament writings.
- The apostolicity of the church was a central concern during the Reformation.
- Different Christian denominations have varying claims to apostolicity.