But some of the sect of the Pharisees who believed rose up, saying, “It is necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.” So the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter. Acts 15:6-7
Throughout the provinces of Greece, there are held in definite localities those councils gathered out of the universal churches. By means of these councils, not only are all the deeper questions handled for the common good, but the actual representation of the whole Christian name is celebrated with great veneration. Tertullian (c. 213, W), 4.111
If, at any time, any subject of investigation among us should not be clear, let us go to Jesus with all unanimity in regard to the question in dispute. For he is present where two or three are gathered together in His name. He is ready by His presence with power to illuminate the hearts of those who truly desire to become his disciples. Origen (c. 245, E), 9.483
We should deal with the problem of the lapsed by gathering together for counsel an assembly with bishops, presbyters, deacons, confessors, and the laity who stand fast. Cyprian (c. 250, W), 5.310
When the persecution had quieted, and opportunity of meeting was afforded, a large number of bishops . . . met together. . . . And lest perhaps the number of bishops in Africa might seem unsatisfactory, we also wrote to Rome concerning this thing, to Cornelius, our colleague. He himself was also holding a council with very many bishops, which had concurred in the same opinion as we had held. Cyprian (c. 250, W), 5.328-329
It is evident that men of that kind may not rule over the church of Christ. . . . This is especially so since Cornelius also, our colleague, a peaceable and righteous priest [bishop of Rome] . . . has long ago decreed with us and with all the bishops appointed throughout the whole world that men of this sort . . . were prohibited from ordination. Cyprian (c. 250, W), 5.371
Dearest brethren, when we were together in council, we read your letter. Cyprian (c. 250, W), 5.375
We have thought it necessary for the arranging of certain matters, dearest brother, and for their investigation by the examination of a common council, to gather together and to hold a council, at which many priests were assembled at once. Cyprian (c. 250, W), 5.378
When we had met together, being bishops of the province of Africa and of Numidia and numbering seventy-one, we established this same matter once more. Cyprian (c. 250, W), 5.379
Just as a heretic may not lawfully ordain or lay on hands, so neither may he baptize, nor do anything that is holy or spiritual. . . . All of which we confirmed some time ago in Iconium, which is a place in Phrygia, when we were assembled together with those who had gathered from Galatia, Cilicia, and other neighboring countries. Firmilian (c. 256, E), 5.392
On the first of September, a great many bishops from the provinces of Africa, Numidia, and Mauritania met together at Carthage, together with the presbyters and deacons. And a considerable part of the congregations were also present. Seventh Council of Carthage (c. 256, W), 5.565
A divine and sacred provincial synod, gathered together at Rome by Stephen, the blessed martyr and father, which excommunicated those in an African synod. Roman Council of Stephen (c. 256, W), 5.653
In the most considerable councils of the bishops, I hear it has been decreed that those who come from heresy should first be trained in [orthodox] doctrine and then should be cleansed by baptism. Dionysius of Alexandria (c. 262, E), 6.102
Let a synod of bishops be held twice a year. Let them ask one another the doctrines of piety, and let them resolve the ecclesiastical disputes that happen. Apostolic Constitutions (compiled c. 390, E), 7.502