A Christian may, as a matter of faith, theologically reject certain dogmas taught by a church—such as the doctrine of apostolic succession—without this amounting to irreverence toward Christ. This is especially relevant in the case of Protestants, who, following their tradition, may hold the view that Christ governs His Church through the Word and the Spirit rather than through a singular hierarchical succession of leaders. The rejection of a dogma, particularly when undertaken in good faith and with sincere conviction, is not inherently a rejection of Christ, but rather a reflection of a differing understanding of how His authority is expressed within the Church.
However, this theological rejection is sometimes confused or taken further than intended. Some, in rejecting a doctrine, go on to believe they must reject the person who represents or embodies that teaching—such as the pope or other church leaders. This can lead to error, especially when such rejection fails to recognize Christ’s presence in His Church or the legitimacy of its leadership as established within that church’s communion. While one may rightly question or reject specific theological claims, going beyond that to reject a leader entirely—especially one who faithfully governs in Christ’s name—can become spiritually problematic if done without due reverence. Such rejection, if rooted in pride or dismissiveness, may verge on disrespecting Christ Himself, particularly when the leader is acting within a church that bears Christ’s name and gathers true disciples.
This is not to say that such leaders possess apostleship in the strict sense. Apostleship, as seen in the New Testament, involves a direct commissioning by Christ and often a personal encounter with the risen Lord. Modern church leaders—bishops, priests, pastors—are not apostles in this foundational sense. Rather, they are governors and stewards, entrusted with the care of the Church and the preservation of apostolic teaching, not the original eyewitness commission. As such, rejecting their authority is not equivalent to rejecting Christ’s apostles, but it can still be serious, depending on the spirit and intention behind the rejection.
Scripture offers guidance on respecting those who labor in the Lord's service. Verses like 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Hebrews 13:17, and Romans 13:1-2 urge believers to honor those in authority and to submit to them, insofar as their leadership reflects God’s will. The Church, as the body of Christ, makes His presence tangible through word, sacrament, and governance. Disregard for the legitimate order of the Church, especially when done with arrogance or disdain, may ultimately lead to a rejection of Christ’s own ordering of His people. There is a line between faithful theological critique and spiritual irreverence. Staying on the side of reverence, humility, and discernment is crucial, especially in disagreements over leadership and authority within Christ’s Church.
