Bible Question:
Thanks Mommapbs As I got responses for scriptural support for an Elder governed church, this is a follow up question asking for anyone that may have a scriptural basis for a Pastor or Congregation governed church, or for anything else concerning a proper NT church government structure. Thanks! retxar |
Bible Answer: "Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, selfcontrolled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach," 1 Tim 3:2 BUT - above reproach does not mean infallible! As the body being led, we must keep this in mind as we hold them accountable! Also, as the "overseer" the Pastor recognizes each of his flock and their gifts; he is the steward of these as well. The following is a piece I wrote called "The Family Business" which you may find interesting: The Family Business If we don’t use our spiritual gifts, we are robbing the body of Christ – Beth Moore Once a upon a time there was a father who wanted to secure his children’s future so he decided to buy a business; this would enable him to provide an employment opportunity for his entire family. The father evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of each child and saw to their training and education. This would equip his children for the jobs he had prepared for them to do. Finally, the day arrived when the father had all his children in place at the business he had bought. He was proud of his children and their accomplishments. The father knew that their skills would be essential for the future of the company and he looked forward to working with them on a daily basis. However, as the father surveyed the company's year-end earning report he was disappointed. There was little growth and no profit. Upon investigation, the father discovered that his employees were unable to accept the leadership that he had provided. They refused the gifts, talents, expertise and training the father had so carefully invested in his children. The employees were ignorant – unable to understand that the success of the company would ultimately benefit everyone! The father’s dream of a family business faded. And one by one, his children left to seek a place of service where their gifts were welcomed and appreciated. Recognize the spiritual gifts that God provides in others. And . . . Use them or lose them! |