Frank Viola’s book concludes with a look at the nature of apostolic authority. He makes the point that we often look at Paul (particularly) as being a very authoritarian leader. Examining his writing, however, we find appeals, arguments presented, and references to fellow workers such as Timothy and Titus as ‘sons’, writing that Titus, for example “has gone to you of his own accord” (2. Cor. 8:17).
This ties in with Paul’s statement about apostles in 1. Cor. 4:9, “For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like men condemned to die in the arena.” That does not sound like someone professing great authority in his position.
In summary, Who is your covering? gives a good insight into the meaning of many of the New Testament’s statements about authority. Even though I did not agree with everything he said, the book was thought-provoking. It is well worth reading.