Posted on 01/07/2018 1:17:40 PM PST by tiredofallofit
But that chain of authority is often not so clear in the church world, especially amongst non-denominational evangelicals. If a man or woman steps up behind a pulpit and speaks to us authoritatively on matters of theology, why do we automatically accept this authority? Is it because we like what we hear? Or do we validate the authority because the pastor’s interpretation of the Bible jives with our own understanding? But who are we to even make that judgement? Why is our interpretation of the Bible any better than the person sitting next to us on the pew? And if we disagree with an aspect of the pastor’s views, do we have a right to question him? Or do we have to accept what he says because we have already consented to his authority?
(Excerpt) Read more at runningawayfrommychurch.com ...
From his congregation, the Body of Christ.
The fact that THE SON OF GOD INSTITUTED the office of The Word and Sacraments also in the New Testament cannot be doubted. The church has been commanded to call and install ministers, and to this has been added, in the first place, the promise that GOD APPROVES of those who have been called by the voice of the church (my emphases)
-Martin Chemnitz
Where did Paul get his authority?
A Pastor has no authority, he is given a responsibility by the Head of the Church, Jesus Christ. Authority implies control, and the ability to mete out punishment. A Pastor is simply a Shepherd keeping his flock safe and fed. Mostly with the knowledge of the Word, but also feeding the physically hungry of his flock.
>> If a man or woman steps up behind a pulpit and speaks to us authoritatively on matters of theology, why do we automatically accept this authority?
I don’t automatically accept his (or her) authority. I accept their calling to say something and listen. If their teachings are valid in accordance with Scripture, then I accept their teaching. If their leadership is in accordance with Scripture, then I accept their authority.
Not tough, not “slippery” at all. If the chain of authority is not clear, it’s probably because it isn’t present.
You can find the clear chain of proper authority in the One, True, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church founded by Christ Jesus.
But they speak and spread the truth as they know it.
Nail on head...
What authority?
Speak for yourself, please. You might “automatically”accept someone else’s authority, but “we” do not. Generally being a civil person, I will give such a person the benefit of the doubt upon initial introduction, but if/when my ‘BS’ detector starts going off I will not hesitate to question ANYONE.
I disagree with you, but don’t want to debate it. So I’ll just ask how much time have you spent pouring over the Scriptures to verify the claims of Rome? Are you a Berean in the spirit of Acts 17? Have you truly considered other views on Rome’s claims? I don’t matter, so those are questions for you to answer to yourself, not to me. Most men aren’t honest, even with themselves. Most men don’t study. Most men put their eternal souls in the hands of others. Most men are fooled spiritually. The Bible teaches there is a way that seems right to men, but the end thereof is death. On what basis did Rome convince you?
Excellent point.
Paul and Barnabus received the laying on of hands from the Church in Antioch and were sent forth. Paul, of course, met Christ on the road to Damascus but he still needed to be sent out by the church.
The article specifically mentions non-denominational churches. That is where authority becomes an issue because often there is very little outside accountability.
But by attending a church are we not putting ourselves under that person’s authority? How many people ever question that authority?
Are you commending this? Should truth be spread as they know it or as it is?
Actually, they are quite easy. Christ did not make it hard for His followers.
Christ told, and Scripture contains the answers:
First, Christ wanted us to be ONE in faith and beliefs: “I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. 1Cor 1:10 Unfortunately, many Christians cannot agree on what the meaning of the word “is” is, as in “This IS my body”
Second, Scripture tells us what is the "pillar and foundation of Truth” And a hint – it is not Scripture - “But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.” 1Tim 3:15
Third, Scripture tells us a little about that Church Christ established - “Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Mat 16:17-18
Now what Church had Peter as its first leader?
I know there are may opinions on authority, but please use Scripture to support your opinion.
Welcome to Free Republic
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.