Did Christ establish a visible, teaching Church?

Apologetics Inspiration of the Holy Scripture
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Yes. The New Testament and the early Church show the Petrine ministry, bishops/presbyters, sacraments, and teaching authority that secure unity.

  1. Biblical basis: Christ promises Peter the power of the keys (Mt 16:18–19), sends the Eleven with universal authority (Mt 28:18–20), and confirms a binding teaching office (Lk 10:16).

  2. Apostolic practice: In Acts 15, the early Church gathers in a conciliar manner; the judgment is presented as the decision of the Holy Spirit and the apostles.

  3. Early Church witness: Ignatius of Antioch testifies to the normativity of the bishop in unity with presbyters and deacons; in Irenaeus, apostolic succession appears as the criterion of true doctrine.

Scripture (EÜ): Mt 16:18–19; Mt 28:18–20; Lk 10:16; Acts 15:28.

Fathers/Teachers: Ignatius; Irenaeus; Cyprian.