# Succession Of Doctrine.

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Here the words of Tertullian are applicable. He
says: “The Christian church is called apostolic not
just because of the succession of persons, but on account
of the kinship of doctrine, since she holds the
doctrine of the apostles.” Lib. de praescript, etc.

This doctrine every one who boasts[43](/en/stories/mm-footnotes/part-5/#Footnote_43) of the true
succession, must prove from the true apostolic writings,
as the means by which the church was originally
instituted, subsequently established, and maintained
through all times (we speak of the Christian
and evangelical church). Therefore, this doctrine
must necessarily, also in these last times be the mark
of the true succession.

Now, if this is united with the common succession
of teachers, we have everything that is necessary for
the demonstration of the true church. This stands
so fast that it cannot reasonably be disputed, much
less, refuted.

The question now will be, in what church the true
apostolic doctrine has been held from the beginning,
26and is still held; which is a privilege boasted of by
many. We leave it to them, and content ourselves
with the testimony of our conscience, compared with
the holy Gospel of Christ and the faith of the holy
church, of which mention is made, throughout, in
the ancient church histories.

To give evidence, then, of the faith professed by
us, we declare, that we believe in our heart, and
confess with our mouth:



## Original source

[Read this passage on Project Gutenberg](https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/65855/pg65855-images.html#FNanchor_43)

[Edition details](https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/65855)

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