Topical Encyclopedia The Apostolical Church Ordinances is an early Christian document that is part of a collection of writings known as the Church Orders. These texts are significant for understanding the organization, liturgical practices, and ethical teachings of the early Christian communities. The Apostolical Church Ordinances is believed to have been composed in the late 3rd or early 4th century, likely in Egypt or Syria. It is often associated with the Didache and the Apostolic Constitutions, sharing similarities in content and purpose.Content and Structure The Apostolical Church Ordinances is structured as a series of instructions purportedly given by the apostles. It covers various aspects of church life, including the qualifications and duties of church leaders, the conduct of worship services, and the moral behavior expected of Christians. The document reflects an early attempt to codify church practices and ensure uniformity across Christian communities. Church Leadership The text provides detailed guidelines for the selection and ordination of bishops, presbyters, and deacons. It emphasizes the importance of moral integrity and doctrinal soundness in church leaders, echoing the apostolic teachings found in the New Testament. For instance, the qualifications for a bishop align with those outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 : "Now the overseer is to be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach..." Worship and Sacraments The Apostolical Church Ordinances outlines the order of worship, including the celebration of the Eucharist, baptism, and other sacraments. It stresses the significance of maintaining the purity and sanctity of these rites, reflecting the early church's commitment to preserving the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. The document also provides instructions on fasting and prayer, underscoring their role in the spiritual life of believers. Moral and Ethical Teachings The ethical teachings in the Apostolical Church Ordinances are rooted in the moral instructions of the New Testament. The document calls for a life of holiness, charity, and humility, urging Christians to live in accordance with the teachings of Christ. It echoes the exhortations found in passages such as Romans 12:9-13 : "Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another." Significance and Influence The Apostolical Church Ordinances played a crucial role in shaping the ecclesiastical structure and liturgical practices of the early church. It reflects the desire of early Christians to maintain apostolic tradition and ensure the continuity of the faith. While not considered canonical, the document provides valuable insights into the development of early Christian communities and their efforts to live out the teachings of the apostles in a rapidly changing world. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Apostolical Church OrdinancesAPOSTOLICAL CHURCH ORDINANCES See DIDACHE. Library The Meaning Catechetical Instruction. The Emperor's Letter to Eusebius Praising Him for Refusing the ... The Means of Grace The Mediaeval Church in Great Britain and Ireland An Account of the Organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church ... Epistle Lxviii. To Eusebius of Thessalonica. Robert Nelson, his Friends, and Church Principles. Seances Historiques De Geneve --The National Church. The Teaching of the Apostles. Resources What are the 95 Theses of Martin Luther? | GotQuestions.orgApostolical: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |