In Christianity, there is a belief that the apostles were the first priests, ordained by Jesus himself. This idea is rooted in various biblical passages and early Christian testimonies. Let’s explore the evidence and reasons behind this belief.
Key Takeaways:
- The Council of Trent declared that Jesus ordained the apostles as his ministerial priests.
- The command to “do this in remembrance of me” is seen as evidence of their priestly role.
- The washing of the apostles’ feet and their participation in Jesus through the ritual washing further support their priestly ordination.
- Early Christian writings by Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch emphasize the role of apostolic succession in the priesthood.
- The belief in the apostles as the first priests is rooted in the concept of apostolic succession and ensures the continuity of the priesthood in the Church.
The Command to “Do This in Remembrance of Me”
The command to “do this in remembrance of me” holds significant importance in the Catholic Church’s belief that the apostles were the first priests ordained by Jesus. This command is seen as evidence that Jesus intended the apostles to offer the Last Supper as a sacrifice, a duty that belongs to priests.
The Greek verb for “do” in this command can be translated as “offer” in the sense of offering a sacrifice. This interpretation is supported by its usage in Exodus, where it describes Moses offering sacrifice as part of the ritual for ordaining Aaron and his sons as priests. By associating the command with the offering of sacrifice, the Catholic Church affirms the priestly function of the apostles.
“Do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19) – The command given by Jesus to the apostles during the Last Supper signifies that they are to offer the Eucharist as a sacrificial offering, just as priests offer sacrifices in the Old Testament.”
The significance of the command is further emphasized by its sacrificial meaning in the Old and New Testaments. In the Septuagint, the Greek word for “remembrance” is used to describe sacrifices of peace offerings that serve as a “remembrance” before God. This further supports the belief that Jesus intended the apostles to offer the Last Supper as a sacrifice, solidifying their role as priests.
| Command | Meaning | Supporting Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| “Do this in remembrance of me” | Offer the Last Supper as a sacrifice | Association with sacrificial offerings in the Old and New Testaments |
The command to “do this in remembrance of me” is a foundational aspect of the Catholic belief that the apostles were the first priests ordained by Jesus. It signifies their role in offering the Last Supper as a sacrificial offering, in line with the priestly function of offering sacrifices. This command, coupled with its sacrificial meaning and supporting evidence from the Old and New Testaments, further solidifies the belief in the apostles as the first priests.
The Sacrificial Overtones of Anamnesis
The command to “do this in remembrance of me” holds significant sacrificial meaning in the context of the apostles’ role as priests. The Greek word for “remembrance” used in this command is imbued with sacrificial connotations in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Septuagint, it is used to describe the sacrifices of peace offerings that serve as a “remembrance” before God. This choice of language suggests that Jesus intended the apostles to offer the Last Supper as a sacrifice, aligning with the duty of priests to make offerings.
This sacrificial understanding is further supported by the ritual context of anamnesis. The act of remembering in the Jewish tradition often involves reenactment and participation in the remembered event. In the case of the apostles, their participation in Jesus through the ritual washing during the Last Supper can be seen as a form of priestly involvement. The Greek verb for their taking “part” in Jesus is laden with priestly undertones, akin to the unique share that Old Testament priests had in God. This further supports the belief that Jesus ordained the apostles as priests through their participation in this sacrificial act.
“The sacrificial nature of anamnesis in the command to ‘do this in remembrance of me’ underscores the priestly role of the apostles. By using language that evokes the sacrificial offerings of the past, Jesus indicates his intention for the apostles to offer the Last Supper as a sacrifice, thus establishing them as priests.”
Ultimately, the sacrificial overtones of anamnesis in the command to “do this in remembrance of me” reinforce the Catholic belief that the apostles were indeed the first priests. This understanding finds support not only in the command itself but also in the ritual context and language used, which emphasize the apostles’ participation in a sacrificial act. By ordaining the apostles as priests, Jesus established a priesthood that continues to this day through the ordained ministers of the Church, who carry on the work of offering sacrifice and facilitating communion with God.
The Sacrificial Overtones of Anamnesis
| Anamnesis | Sacrificial Meaning |
|---|---|
| Septuagint Usage | Describes sacrifices as a “remembrance” before God |
| Ritual Context | Anamnesis involves reenactment and participation |
| Participation in Jesus | Reflects priestly involvement and unique share |
The Washing of the Apostles’ Feet
The washing of the apostles’ feet by Jesus is a significant event that holds potential indications of their priestly ordination. In the Old Testament, the ritual washing of Aaron and his sons played a prominent role in their ordination ceremonies. Similarly, Jesus’ act of washing the apostles’ feet may have been a symbolic act of ordaining them as priests, reminiscent of the washing performed by Moses before Aaron’s consecration to the priesthood.
“If I do not wash you, you have no part in me.”
The statement made by Jesus during the foot washing further suggests their priestly status. The Greek word for “part” used in this statement echoes the “portion” that Old Testament priests were to have in God. This statement may indicate that the apostles have a unique share in Jesus, similar to how the Old Testament priests had a unique share in God. The act of foot washing, therefore, serves as a powerful symbol of priestly ordination and the apostles’ participation in Jesus’ mission.
The ritual washing of the apostles’ feet demonstrates the embodiment of priestly ordination in Jesus’ ministry. The act itself signifies humility, service, and the washing away of sins. Through this act, Jesus sets an example for his apostles to follow, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership in their priestly roles. The washing of the apostles’ feet serves as a reminder of their commission to imitate Jesus’ humility and selflessness in their service to others.
Priestly Portions
Within the context of Jesus’ ministry and the appointment of the apostles, the statement made by Jesus that “if I do not wash you, you have no part in me” holds significant implications for their priestly status. The Greek word for “part” used in this statement carries a deeper meaning, echoing the “portion” that Old Testament priests were to have in God. This suggests that the apostles have a unique share in Jesus, similar to how the priests of the Old Testament had a unique share in God.
“If I do not wash you, you have no part in me.”
This understanding of the apostles’ priestly status is supported by their intimate relationship with Jesus and their participation in his salvific mission. Just as the Old Testament priests had a special role in mediating between God and his people, the apostles have a unique role in mediating the grace and presence of Jesus to the world. They are called to be ambassadors of Christ, bringing the message of reconciliation and offering the sacraments through which the saving work of Jesus is made present.
By having a “part” in Jesus, the apostles are given a specific responsibility and authority that distinguishes them from the rest of the believers. They are entrusted with the ministry of the new covenant, empowered to carry out the work of preaching, healing, and forgiving sins in Jesus’ name. This priestly portion is not just a symbolic gesture, but a tangible reality that defines their role and mission within the Church.
In summary, the statement made by Jesus to the apostles about having a “part” in him underscores their priestly status. Their unique share in Jesus reflects the special responsibility and authority they have been given as ministers of the new covenant. Through their participation in the priesthood, the apostles continue the work of Jesus in preaching the Gospel, healing the sick, and forgiving sins. Their priestly portions define their role and mission, serving as a channel through which God’s grace and presence are made manifest in the world.
Early Christian Testimony
The belief that the apostles were the first priests is supported by early Christian writings from prominent figures such as Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch. These writings provide valuable insights into the role of the apostles and the concept of apostolic succession in the early Church.
Clement of Rome, who served as the fourth bishop of Rome, wrote a letter to the Corinthians in which he discusses the appointment of bishops and deacons by the apostles. This emphasis on the role of bishops as successors to the apostles suggests that the apostles held a unique and authoritative position within the early Church.
Ignatius of Antioch, who was ordained by the apostle Peter, also stressed the importance of the office of bishop and the continuity of apostolic succession. In his letters to various churches, Ignatius emphasized the need for unity and obedience to the bishops, further highlighting their role as successors to the apostles.
These early Christian testimonies provide valuable historical evidence for the belief that the apostles were the first priests and that their ministry was continued through the bishops and priests of the Church. The concept of apostolic succession, as articulated by Clement and Ignatius, ensures the continuity and authenticity of the priesthood from the time of the apostles to the present day.
Table: Early Christian Testimonies
| Name | Role | Testimony |
|---|---|---|
| Clement of Rome | Fourth bishop of Rome | Wrote a letter to the Corinthians discussing the appointment of bishops and deacons by the apostles. |
| Ignatius of Antioch | Ordained by Peter | Emphasized the importance of the office of bishop and the continuity of apostolic succession in his letters to various churches. |
Melchizedek as a Precedent for the Apostles as Priests
The reference to Melchizedek in the Letter to the Hebrews is significant in understanding the priesthood of the apostles. Melchizedek, the first person explicitly referred to as a priest in the Bible, offers bread and wine, similar to Jesus at the Last Supper. This ancient priesthood, known as the patriarchal priesthood or priesthood of primogeniture, existed before the rise of the Levitical priesthood. David, the king of Israel, is also described as a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.
“You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.” – Hebrews 5:6
The priesthood of Melchizedek is unique and distinct from the Levitical priesthood. It predates and transcends the Mosaic Law, pointing to a higher and eternal priesthood that Jesus, as the priest-king, belongs to. The author of Hebrews draws on this precedent to establish the priesthood of the apostles, who, like Melchizedek, participate in both priestly and kingly functions. This understanding elevates the apostolic priesthood as a continuation of the divine plan for redemption and salvation.
Understanding Melchizedek as a precedent for the apostles as priests helps to solidify the Catholic belief in the ministerial priesthood. It highlights the ancient roots of priesthood, going back to the earliest days of biblical history, and emphasizes the unique role and authority entrusted to the apostles by Jesus. Through their participation in the priesthood of Melchizedek, the apostles continue the work of offering sacrifice, proclaiming the Gospel, and shepherding the Church, ensuring the continuity and authenticity of the priesthood throughout history.
| Table: Comparison between Melchizedek and the Apostles as Priests | |
|---|---|
| Melchizedek | The Apostles |
| First explicitly referred to as a priest in the Bible | Ordained by Jesus as his apostles and given the authority to offer the sacrifice of the Last Supper |
| Offers bread and wine | Offer the Eucharist, the sacramental representation of Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross |
| Priest-king, combining both priestly and kingly functions | Participate in both priestly and kingly functions, leading and shepherding the Church |
| Predates and transcends the Mosaic Law | Establishes a new covenant, surpassing the requirements of the Old Law |
| Symbolizes a higher and eternal priesthood | Continues the divine plan of redemption and salvation through the priesthood |
By recognizing Melchizedek as a precedent for the apostles as priests, the Catholic Church affirms the divine institution of the ministerial priesthood and the continuation of Jesus’ redemptive work through the sacraments and the Church. The priesthood of the apostles is rooted in history, tradition, and the biblical narrative, providing a solid foundation for the belief in the apostolic succession and the authority of the ordained ministers in the Church today.
The Restoration of the Patriarchal Priesthood
Jesus, through his redemptive and salvific self-offering on the Cross, restores and elevates the patriarchal priesthood. By establishing the apostles as twelve new patriarchs of the new and eschatological Israel, Jesus continues the patriarchal priesthood in a purified form. The apostles share in the ministry of Jesus, continuing his work of preaching, healing, and forgiving. Through their participation in the priesthood, the entire Body of Christ (the Church) enters into the offering of the Head in the Eucharist.
Jesus’ restoration of the patriarchal priesthood signifies the fulfillment of Old Testament foreshadowing and the establishment of a new covenant between God and humanity. The patriarchal priesthood, represented by Melchizedek, the first priest mentioned in the Bible, predated the Levitical priesthood and embodied the characteristics of both king and priest. Similarly, Jesus, as the eternal King and High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek, institutes the apostles as priests to continue his salvific mission.
This restoration of the patriarchal priesthood is significant in both its continuity and transformation. The apostles, chosen by Jesus to be the foundation of the Church, are elevated as spiritual fathers and bearers of divine authority. Through their ministry, the sacrificial offering of Jesus on the Cross is made present in the Eucharist, where the faithful participate in his redemptive sacrifice. The apostolic priesthood, passed down through apostolic succession, ensures the continued presence of the patriarchal priesthood in the Church and the ongoing participation of believers in the saving work of Christ.
Summary:
- Jesus restores and elevates the patriarchal priesthood through his redemptive self-offering.
- The apostles, as new patriarchs, continue the ministry of Jesus in preaching, healing, and forgiving.
- The restoration of the patriarchal priesthood signifies the fulfillment of Old Testament foreshadowing.
- The apostolic priesthood, passed down through apostolic succession, ensures the ongoing participation of believers in the saving work of Christ.
“The restoration of the patriarchal priesthood signifies the fulfillment of Old Testament foreshadowing and the establishment of a new covenant between God and humanity.”
Table: Comparison of Old Testament and New Testament Priesthoods
| Old Testament Priesthood | New Testament Priesthood |
|---|---|
| Levitical priesthood based on lineage | Apostolic priesthood based on divine appointment |
| Offered animal sacrifices for atonement | Offers the Eucharist as the sacrifice of Jesus |
| High priest enters the Holy of Holies once a year | All priests have access to the presence of God through Jesus |
The Continuous Offering of Jesus’ Self-Offering
Within the Catholic belief, the apostles were ordained as the first priests by Jesus himself. This ordination has a significant impact on the continuous offering of Jesus’ self-offering in the heavenly liturgy. As the high priest of the heavenly Temple, Jesus continues to offer his sacrifice to the Father in heaven. The Mass, considered the heavenly liturgy, makes this offering present and accessible to humanity.
Jesus, at the Last Supper, prayed for the consecration of the apostles, inviting them to participate in his own consecration and continue his work of offering sacrifice on behalf of God’s family. This invitation extends to every Mass celebrated through the ordained priesthood of the New Covenant. Through the ordained priests, the self-offering of Jesus becomes present in the Eucharist, making the sacrifice available for the salvation of humanity.
The Ministry of Reconciliation
The apostles, as ministers of the new covenant, play a crucial role in the ministry of reconciliation within the Catholic Church. They are entrusted with various tasks, including preaching the Gospel, healing the sick, performing miracles, and forgiving sins in the name of Jesus. St. Paul refers to himself as a minister of the new covenant and an ambassador for Christ, highlighting the importance of their role. Through their ministry, they act as mediators between God and humanity, bringing the message of salvation and facilitating the reconciliation of sinners with God.
St. Paul exemplifies the ministry of reconciliation in his letters when he writes, “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us” (2 Corinthians 5:20). This passage emphasizes the apostles’ role as representatives of Christ, bringing the message of salvation and urging people to be reconciled with God. Their ministry extends beyond mere preaching; they actively participate in the work of salvation, guiding believers on their journey towards eternal life.
The apostles’ ministry of reconciliation is closely tied to the sacraments, through which the saving work of Jesus Christ is made present and continues in the Church. The sacraments, such as baptism and the Eucharist, are powerful means of grace that enable believers to experience God’s forgiveness and reconciliation. The apostles, as ministers of these sacraments, facilitate the encounter between individuals and God’s mercy, helping them to grow in holiness and deepen their relationship with Him.
The Role of the Apostles Today
While the apostles themselves are no longer physically present, their ministry of reconciliation continues through the successors of the apostles, namely the bishops and priests. Through the laying on of hands in the sacrament of Holy Orders, bishops and priests are ordained to continue the ministry of the apostles. They share in the apostolic authority and are entrusted with the task of shepherding the faithful, proclaiming the Gospel, and administering the sacraments.
The ministry of reconciliation is not limited to clergy alone, but it is a call for all believers to participate in the work of evangelization and reconciliation. Each member of the Church, through their baptism, is called to be a witness of Christ’s love and mercy in the world. By living out their faith and sharing the Gospel, they contribute to the ministry of reconciliation, helping others to encounter God’s transformative grace.
Apostolic Succession
The concept of apostolic succession plays a crucial role in the belief that the apostles were the first priests ordained by Jesus. Apostolic succession refers to the passing down of the authority and ministry of the apostles to their successors, the bishops and priests of the Church. This succession ensures the continuity and authenticity of the priesthood from the time of the apostles to the present day.
Apostolic succession is rooted in the early Christian testimonies of Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch. These early Church fathers emphasized the importance of the office of bishop as the successor to the apostles. Through the laying on of hands, the bishops and priests continue the ministry of the apostles, preserving the teachings and traditions of the Church.
“The apostolic succession ensures that the apostles’ authority and ministry are passed down to the present day.”
Apostolic succession is not only a matter of succession of bishops but also of priests. The priesthood is conferred upon priests through their ordination by bishops who are the successors of the apostles. This hierarchical structure ensures that the authority and ministry of the apostles are transmitted through the generations, maintaining the unity and continuity of the Church.
| Table 1: Succession of Bishops and Priests in Apostolic Succession | |
|---|---|
| Bishops | Priests |
| Council of Trent | Pope Francis |
| Pope Francis | Cardinals |
| Cardinals | Archbishops |
| Archbishops | Bishops |
| Bishops | Priests |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Catholic belief is that the apostles were the first priests, ordained by Jesus through his command at the Last Supper. The command to “do this in remembrance of me” is seen as evidence of their priestly role, as is the washing of their feet and their participation in Jesus through the ritual washing. Early Christian testimonies, the precedent of Melchizedek, and the concept of apostolic succession further support this belief.
The apostolic priesthood continues today through the ordained ministers of the Church, who share in the ministry of Jesus in preaching, healing, and forgiving. Through the sacraments, the saving work of Jesus Christ is made present and continues in the Church. The concept of apostolic succession ensures the continuity and authenticity of the priesthood from the time of the apostles to the present day.
By understanding the role of the apostles as the first priests, we gain insight into the foundation and structure of the priesthood in Christianity. The apostles’ participation in Jesus’ sacrificial offering, their ministry of reconciliation, and their continuation of Jesus’ work in the heavenly liturgy all highlight the central role of the priesthood in the life of the Church. Their unique share in Jesus and their ordination as priests set the foundation for the sacramental ministry that continues to nourish the faithful today.
FAQ
Were the apostles the first priests?
According to Catholic teaching, the apostles were ordained as priests by Jesus himself at the Last Supper. Their priestly role is supported by various biblical references and early Christian testimonies.
What is the significance of the command to "do this in remembrance of me"?
The command is seen as evidence that Jesus intended the apostles to offer the Last Supper as a sacrifice, which is a duty belonging to priests. This interpretation is supported by biblical parallels and the sacrificial meaning of the Greek word for “remembrance”.
How does the washing of the apostles’ feet relate to their priestly ordination?
The washing of the apostles’ feet by Jesus is seen as a possible indication of their priestly ordination, as it parallels the ritual washing performed in the ordination of Old Testament priests.
What does Jesus’ statement about having "no part" in him signify?
Jesus’ statement suggests that the apostles have a unique share in him, similar to how Old Testament priests had a unique portion in God. This further supports the belief in their priestly status.
What do early Christian writings say about the apostles as priests?
Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch both provide testimonies about the apostles appointing bishops and deacons, emphasizing the importance of apostolic succession in the Church.
How does Melchizedek relate to the priesthood of the apostles?
Melchizedek, the first person referred to as a priest in the Bible, offers bread and wine, similar to Jesus at the Last Supper. This ancient priesthood serves as a precedent for the apostles’ priestly role.
How does Jesus restore and elevate the patriarchal priesthood?
Through his redemptive self-offering on the Cross, Jesus restores and elevates the patriarchal priesthood, establishing the apostles as new patriarchs of the new and eschatological Israel.
How is Jesus’ self-offering made present in every Mass?
Jesus’ self-offering to the Father in heaven is made present in every Mass through the ordained priesthood of the New Covenant. The Mass is considered the heavenly liturgy where Jesus’ sacrifice is offered for the salvation of humanity.
What is the ministry of reconciliation and how does it relate to the apostles as priests?
The apostles, as ministers of the new covenant, participate in the ministry of reconciliation, which includes preaching the Gospel, healing the sick, performing miracles, and forgiving sins. They continue the saving work of Jesus in the sacraments.
What is apostolic succession and its significance?
Apostolic succession refers to the continuity of the priesthood from the apostles to the present day through the laying on of hands. This ensures the authenticity and continuity of the priesthood in the Church.
