Oriental Orthodox churches affirm Peter's confession of Christ and his foundational role in Matthew 16:18, but they emphasize the collective foundation of all apostles together. The church is built on the college of apostles and their faith in Christ.

Oriental Orthodox theology affirms apostolic authority and succession but rejects both papal supremacy and development of ecclesiastical monarchy. The bishops are understood as successors of all apostles collectively, maintaining apostolic authority in conciliar and collegial fashion.