Bible Question:
Steve, I realize that there is a structure in today's church systems. But Shannon was not having a bible study in a church building. She was having it in her home. The pastor as an authoritive leader is not the authoritive head in her home. So how far do you think we must carry that pastor's authority into our homes in other areas? Overseeing a body of believers and watching out for their spiritual well-being would not give that person the authority to make all decisions for the individuals in a particular body of believers. Would one need his permission to study as a family as well? I guess I didn't know that anyone thought all groupings that study Bible together are under some other person's authority, pastor or otherwise. I thought God was our central authority when it comes to understanding His Word. Since spiritual things can only be understood by those who are spiritual ... Are we in trouble on this forum for not getting a pastor's permission to discuss or study Bible? :) |
Bible Answer: There, It depends on if the Bible study is part of the church. Some have Bible studies as part of a small group of the church. Others have a Bible study that do not have other church members, or a very few. If there are more than a few members, I would take a dim eye on the group - the authority of the church was not condidered important. Would one need his permission to study as a family as well? No, but if we add another couple of families - it is a small group and should be part of the church. The goal is to get people into church, even if I was doing my study for my neighbors, coworkers, et al Steve |