Does the N.T. tell us that a local church should operate under Elder Rule or Congregation Rule?
Answer Great question. Paul asks his young evangelists to appoint Elders in every place. But, these were not Elders as we see in many denominations or congregations today. These men were spiritual guides or overseers. What we have today in most traditional Christian churches is more like a board of directors over the corporate institution. Nothing like what Christ taught his leaders to be. His leaders are servants, not dictators. In Texas, we know there is a huge difference between cattle drivers and shepherds. The term Elder in scripture means “more than the rest.” Many assume “older than the rest.” And it does carry the essence of meaning more spiritually-mature persons. Since we see persons sought out to be “deacons” in the New Testament Book of Acts (who were given oversight of the daily food distribution) that had to have the quality of being “full of the Holy Spirit.” We can assume Elders must be men “more full” of the Holy Spirit than all the rest. Elders are spiritual guides an
Related Questions
- Timothy 3:5. In speaking of a local elder in a local congregation, Paul wrote Timothy: "For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the CHURCH OF GOD?
- Why are local church discipleship/training programs becoming increasing popular?
- What is OMMAs relationship to the local church?
