Bible Question:
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 |
Bible Answer: Rom 13:7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; HONOUR to whom HOUNOUR. What would I do, obey the scriptures Jesus said to Mary in Luke 10:41...Thou art careful and troubled about many things. 1Cor 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Philippians 2:12...Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 1Pet 2:13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake... Rom 10:15 ...How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel... llTim 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. I pray that God will give you peace. John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. lCor 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. May God Bless You!! carol |