Bible Question (short): Preachers with titles wrong? |
Question (full): My pastor just became an "ordained bishop". It was a "Big" occasion. I was told (since I chose not to attend)that several ministers came and poured oil, laid hands on him,and "prophesied" over him. He was given a royal blue fringed banner to wear around his neck. Embroidered on it are the words bishop and his name. He wears or has it with him when he preaches. We have "elders" in our church and I believe they serve the same function as a bishop. When I have mentioned this, some people take offense that I would equate a bishop with an elder. I also believe that words like bishop, prophet, apostle, evangelist, pastor, etc. are functions, not titles. They are what people do. The bible never mentions these functions in front of a name, e.g. it was Paul, the apostle; Jeremiah, the prophet; Philip, the evangelist. My heart is grieved at so many of the so-called preachers today who want these titles in front of their names. My pastor has become very "successful" during the past 10 -13 years that he has been my pastor. I do see a tremendous change in him. He also teaches that one can lose his/her salvation, and that one is cursed with a curse if one does not tithe. I do not believe either of the latter. I am seriously considering attending another congregation...but I realize that I will never agree with everything someone teaches. What would you do? Bereaniam |