Where Is the Magisterium in the Bible?

The Magisterium, the teaching authority of the Pope and the bishops in union with him, is illustrated in various places in the New Testament.

All of the apostles have the power to bind and loose (Matt. 18:15-18), but only St. Peter—the first Pope—had “the keys of the kingdom of heaven,” illustrating his primacy re: teaching and governing in leading the Church (Matthew 16:18-19).

We also see the teaching authority of Peter and the apostles affirmed in the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20) and in Acts 2:42.

For a deeper treatment of the subject of the Magisterium, see my “Pentecost and the Papacy” article and our tracts “Pillar of Fire, Pillar of Truth” and “Scripture and Tradition”.