[wmfights]

I thought the very first churches were basically autonomous.

They were. The churches selected their Elders and Deacons. It was after the Apostolic Era ended that there began to be a push for a hierarchal system. The justification for this was to combat heresy.

As with all things that man does to try and improve on God's plan it didn't work out.

[Campion]

The churches selected their Elders and Deacons. It was after the Apostolic Era ended that there began to be a push for a hierarchal system.

Then why does St. Paul direct Titus to "appoint presbyters in every town"?

Maybe that "push" started with the Apostles themselves.

[Forest Keeper]

FK: "I thought the very first churches were basically autonomous."

They were. The churches selected their Elders and Deacons. It was after the Apostolic Era ended that there began to be a push for a hierarchal system.

OK, thanks much for the confirmation. I knew I remembered your saying that before. :)