Definition: Apostolic authority means the true, living and authoritative church leadership in a specific faith (e.g., Roman Catholicism). It signifies an individual who has been appointed by God to guide and establish the church's teachings through oral tradition and formal education. The term was widely used throughout the Middle Ages for leaders who were not traditional clergy or bishops but who had been chosen specifically to interpret the Bible and interpret spiritual matters, often in a local capacity.
closed bracket.
what should be said.