apostolisches

Apostolisches is the German adjective meaning “apostolic” or “pertaining to the apostles.” It derives from the Greek apostolos and is used to describe things related to the apostles, their teaching, or their authority within Christian contexts.

In theological and ecclesiastical usage, apostolic reference often concerns the idea of apostolic succession— the belief that church authority is transmitted in an unbroken line from the original apostles. The term is also linked to the Apostles’ Creed, known in German as das Apostolische Glaubensbekenntnis, a foundational statement of Christian faith attributed to early apostolic teaching. Churches and communities may describe themselves as apostolisch to signal continuity with the apostles’ teaching and practice.

The term also appears in the names of some Christian groups, particularly in German-speaking regions, where denominations or congregations identify as Apostolische Kirche or Apostolische Gemeinde. In these contexts, “apostolisch” can denote a focus on the offices or ministries of apostles and prophets or on Pentecostal-Charismatic expressions of faith. This usage varies widely and is not universal across Christianity; some groups emphasize ongoing apostolic leadership, while others stress doctrinal continuity with the early church without endorsing contemporary apostolic office.

Overall, apostolisch signals a connection to the authority, teaching, or tradition associated with the original apostles, with meanings that range from doctrinal and liturgical references to denominational self-identification within different Christian streams.

See also: apostolic succession, Apostles’ Creed, Apostolic Church, Pentecostalism.