Bible Question:
Steve, I guess I'm still asking the question because the answer doesn't seem biblical. Can you give me concrete scripture that says anyone (man or woman) needs an elder's permission to study bible in their home (alone or with others) or to share the gospel with others? It seems to me that you have been indoctrinated into "man's religious structure" of the church rather than God's Word in this area. |
Bible Answer: Greetings There! If I might interject a practical point, I would speak to this issue. I head up our church's small groups ministy. From that perspective, I see two issues concerning this question, not one. 1) Issue One: Does someone need a pastor's permission to lead a Bible study? I would say no to this question. Anyone can study the Bible with whomever they want at anytime. 2) Issue Two: Is the Bible study being conducted under the authority of the church? If this is the case, then we have a different situation. All of our "offical" small group leaders are required to participate in training , oversight, and accountabilty programs. As such, they are very much under the ministry umbrella of our church. So, if Shannon is simply leading a Bible study in her home, I would say she has every right (even the responsibility) to do so. However, if she is conducting in the name of the church, she should be under their authority and oversight. I hope this helps! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |