What does the Bible say about the authority of apostles?

The authority of apostles is rooted in the divine appointment by God, as exemplified in passages like 2 Corinthians 10:8 where Paul asserts his authority is for building up the church, not for destruction. This authority was crucial for addressing false teachings and ensuring that the true gospel was preserved among believers. Apostles were appointed to maintain doctrinal purity and provide spiritual oversight, guiding the church in understanding God's truth.

Paul emphasizes that, even with the significant authority given to him, it was not for self-aggrandizement but for the edification of the church. The apostolic authority was meant to encourage faithfulness to the gospel and to protect the community from those who would lead them astray. Just as in the early church, a careful discernment of spiritual authority is necessary for the health and growth of the body of Christ today.