BACK TO THE APOSTLES

“The wall of the city had twelve courses of stones as its foundation, on which were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.” –Revelation 21:14

The holy city, the Church in glory, is founded on the apostles (see also Eph 2:20). This gives us an objective criterion for recognizing the Church founded by Jesus. The Church founded by Jesus can historically trace herself back to the apostles through the ordination of its bishops.

By recognizing Jesus’ Church, we know who to believe on such critical matters of faith and morals as:

• Do we receive the Body and Blood of Jesus in Holy Communion?

• Is Baptism necessary?

• Is marriage a sacrament?

• Is the Sacrament of Reconciliation from the Holy Spirit?

• Do I have to be holy to go to heaven?

These important matters and others are disputed by some Christian leaders. The Church is the only answer to human limitations, disagreements, and confusion. We must recognize the Church Jesus founded. This makes the apostles and their successors especially important. Love the Church and her apostles.

PRAYER: Father, may I love the Church and lay down my life for her (Eph 5:25).
PROMISE: “You are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” –Jn 1:49
PRAISE: St. Bartholomew, one of the twelve foundation stones of the Church (see Eph 2:20; Rv 21:14), powerfully intercedes for us. He brought the Good News to India and Armenia.