Even in the first century we see the apostles acting with authority, interpreting Scripture and binding the faithful to their decisions.50 Only if they had been established by divine authority would they have the right to do this; the New Testament records that they did have that right.51 This same magisterium is found today in the Catholic Church, having continually exercised the authority Christ gave it. Since the Church is fully protected from error by the power and grace of God,52 the faithful can fully assent to it, trusting that it accurately teaches God’s saving truth.
