Individual Soul Liberty

What is ISL?
In a nutshell the doctrine of individual soul liberty (ISL) is the teaching that every individual has liberty over their own soul whether saved or unsaved. This is a biblical Baptist distinctive. Baptists should view this blessed doctrine with much satisfaction. According Edward T. Hiscox, it can not be said of Baptists since they have been called Baptists that they ever persecuted anyone for holding to other religious beliefs (cf. Principles and Practices for Baptist Churches p. 493). “Is it not true…” one may ask, “…those Fundamental Baptists want the whole world to be converted to biblical Christianity?” Yes! It is true, but while we do wish the whole world would be saved our evangelism technique is neither by coercion nor persecution! Rather, it is by persuasion, we pray, present the gospel, and God gives the increase.

What ISL is Not!

ISL is not justification for disobeying Scripture.

The Believer
A believer may choose to obey or disobey God’s Word, but disobedience is not justified. “My Bible calls it SIN!” (Sketch Erickson)

The Unbeliever
An unbeliever has liberty to remain in unbelief, but is not free from the consequences.

No one has the right to do as he wishes without regards to others. This is especially true for believers (see Romans 14).

Here are some examples:

I may have the freedom to drink wine, but not to get drunk.(Ephesians 5:18)

While at a Jewish Bar mitzvah (when it is recognized that a boy becomes a man) I do not want to offend my Jewish friends by not drinking a glass of wine which they have provided for the occasion. So I partake… I have NOT sinned!

However, if there is a certain sister in Christ with me who has a particular weakness in the area of drunkenness, then I will abstain so I do not offend her. I will be as gracious as possible not to unnecessarily offend anyone, but I am bound to those in Christ first… I have NOT sinned!

ISL is Not Short for Island!
We are not a law to ourselves. I can’t go driving my Neon through traffic like it’s a bumper car track or a rollercoaster ride. In the church I can’t just go on my own little soapbox and expound it to the death (usually the death of the doctrine, or the death of the learners, not the death of me).

We are a church, individuals banned together for the common purpose, to glorify God.

• To Exalt Christ
• To Edify the saints
• To Evangelize the lost
• To Encourage one another

My Liberty and Your Liberty!
My liberty does not take for granted nor infringe upon the liberty of others. Some one said, “Your liberty to throw punches ends where my nose begins!”

Unprovoked, and out of the clear blue sky, a customer of mine announced in a harrumph, “I believe in homosexual marriages, a woman’s right to choose an abortion for any reason, and that it’s OK to burn our flag!” My response, “Hi [Tom], I couldn’t disagree with you more on each of those issues, but I would fight for your freedom to express your opinions.” This ended the discussion and left him scratching his head. I think it threw him off a bit that I didn’t get on my moral high horse and gallop all over his twisted “beliefs”. The point is: it is hypocritical to desire liberty for oneself and not extend it to others.

ISL and the Priesthood of the Believer
We have covered The Priesthood of Every Believer in another post. ISL has also been called the doctrine of the priesthood of the believer practically considered. (God’s Blueprint for a Church, K.H. Good, RBP). I like that idea because no one has more liberty than those God calls His priests. K. H. Good makes an interesting observation about the Reformers who spoke out against “…priestcraft that began in the third century abscessing in the apostasies of Rome’s rituals.” Yet, “…the development of the doctrine of conscience never reached its full application. …this principal was latent with the Reformers but not emergent.” (K.H. Good p.91; cf. Calvin’s Institutes Vol. II page 141)

Puritans fleeing a church-controlled state came to the new country and began to set up a church-controlled state. Our look at ISL would not be complete if we did not mention Roger Williams and the roll he played in establishing a separation of powers. However, this will fit in nicely with the second S in our BAPTISTS acrostic when we will put “separation of church and state” under the spotlight. If you wish you may read A PLEA FOR RELIGIOUS LIBERTY by Roger Wiliams (also see Edward T. Hiscox Prop. III).

What is your view of freedom? Some hold the obnoxious idea that freedom means one can do as one pleases, but this leads to bondage. Truly, freedom is doing as one ought to do, not “whatever pleases me”, but “whatever pleases God”! This is true freedom and leads to true happiness and joy.

Stay salty,
Brother John

Why must I be “Saved” to Join Your Church? or ...Saved (Regenerated) Church Membership!

And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:47)

Are local Baptist churches committed to snobbery?
Is it reasonable to ask a perspective member to give a believable, personal, testimony of their conversion? The biblical distinctive of Saved Church Membership is another concept that separates biblical Baptists churches from other denominational groups. The fact is that historically this doctrine is more important to Baptists than baptism by immersion. Let me explain…

There are two senses of “church” in the NT, the invisible/universal church, and the visible/local church.

The Invisible or Universal Church
Theologians have found the concept of the invisible or universal church (i.e. all those who have trusted in Christ from the day of Pentecost to the rapture or catching away). It is deemed the invisible church because one can not look at another and know if that he/she is saved. It is the universal church in the sense that it encompasses all true believers regardless of their time in history, the location, and the name which their group calls its self.

The Visible or Local Church
Theologians have also found the concept of the visible or local church. It is visible because one can see others who meet together and profess to be saved. It is called local because it meets in a locality. It is the Tenth Presbyterian, Church of the Cross Methodist, West Broadway Baptist Church, Shadow Mountain Community Church, or some such name.

In Contrast
Some churches such as the congregation I grew up in, Fairgreen Presbyterian Church teach that the wheat and the tares (saved who can’t be sure they are saved, and the unsaved who can’t be sure they are saved) grow up together in the covenant community and that God would straighten it all out in the end. The proof text for this idea is… Matthew 13:24-30 ESV usually from the RSV:

Another parable he put before them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. And the servants of the householder came and said to him, `Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then has it weeds?' He said to them, `An enemy has done this.' The servants said to him, `Then do you want us to go and gather them?' But he said, `No; lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. Let both grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.'"

It is suggested that the “church” is inclusive. That is, it includes anyone who wishes to join, or anyone who has grown up therein (eg. me, my parents, my grandparents, my great grand parents, my great, great grandparents etc.) Anyone? Yes anyone! However this is misleading, it serves as an example of the saying, “a text out of context is a pretext.”

A Fuller Explanation
Later in that same chapter, Jesus clearly explains the parable to His disciples (incidently, we also have the explanation Matthew 13:37-43 ESV). The field is not the kingdom, not the covenant community, not the church. Jesus said, "The field is the world..." (v.38) Christians are not to go about the world claiming dominion, or pestering and persecuting till others believe, but by prayer and persuasion explaining the good news so that others become responsible to believe! Once one becomes a child of God by being born again into God’s family (BTW the Bible never speaks of the grandchildren of God, or great grandchildren etc.) they are a part of the church (invisible/universal). The next step for a child of God is to become a member of a church (visible/local). One is not a member of the church preceding salvation. A local church should not receive unbelievers into their fellowship! One my say, “That’s a dogmatic statement, how can you say such a thing?” I can say such a thing for three simple reasons: the original language indicates this, the NT dictates this, and reason predicates this.

The Original Language Indicates This
The Greek word ecclesia, which is a means a “called out group” in the classical sense, characterizes citizens that were called out of their homes into a public place. In the biblical sense it refers to those called out of the world unto God. God’s church is made up of those called out of the masses to God and for God. The body of Christ (the invisible church) is composed of believers and I hope you will agree that the local church should reflect this model.

The NT Dictates This
Fifty days after Christ’s resurrection was the day of Pentecost. On that day Peter the apostle (NOT the Pope) preached a powerful message of good news! Christ’s death, burial and resurrection (Acts 2:14-36). On that day God began the church, the body of Christ: all who believed from that day till the end of the age. The church of Jerusalem (NOT Rome) was founded that day. If we break it down further, we can see that Acts 2:41 describes the events on the “Day of Pentecost” while vv. 42-47 describe events of the weeks and months that followed. In v.47 we read that God added to the church such as should be saved. Those who were saved were baptized and added to the church. There is no example in Scriptures of a believer refusing to be baptized and join a local church.

Reason Predicates This
I asked my ABF why it is important that we admit only those who give a credible testimony of personal salvation. One quoted, Amos 3:3 “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Another quoted from 2Cor.6:14 “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?” Another said, “Unless we are on the same page, we would not be working as a team.” This prompted another who asserted “An unbeliever may have different agendas than believers do…” The discussion continued to snowball, “Unbelievers might want to use and influence others to fulfill a social program instead of the great commission… we could lose our focus and forget our mission.” Good answers! There were other answers given too. We had a good discussion time that day. The answers were all reasonable. Saved church membership is reasonable because it unifies the members, it gives us a sense of family and brings us into full responsibility to one another (see my wife’s post here. This was also part of our discussion at that time too).

This is a very practical, biblical, Baptist distinctive. What are some commitments or obligations of members in your church toward the Pastor/s and other members? How may this be applied to business meetings? In what ways do you value this concept? Perhaps you do not like it … tell me why. Use Scripture whenever applicable. :-)

In His fellowship,
Brother John

Two Offices: Pastor, the First of Two Offices

"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood."
(Acts 20:28 )

Churches have many different titles for their spiritual leaders: pastor, deacon, elder, bishop, archbishop, cardinals, prelates, vicars, presbyters, presidents, prophets, priest, apostles, nuns, monks, pope, but which of these titles is or are bible based offices? Biblical Baptists recognize only two offices; the office of pastor, and the office of deacon. The office of pastor and the office of deacon are not really distinctives of Baptists; almost every church has a pastor and deacons. The biblical distinctive is that Baptists have only two offices within the local church, pastors and deacons. Biblical Baptists recognize no church offices outside of or over the local church other than pastors and deacons. The so called offices of cardinals, prelates, vicars, priest, nuns, presidents, and pope are not found in the NT. The aim of this post is to highlight the first of the two church offices of biblical Baptists; that is the office of the pastor.

I will make some preliminary remarks as to the office of the pastor (not to be confused with the spiritual gift of pastor*). I will then discuss the qualities of the pastor NOT the qualifications of a pastor and then move to the functions of a pastor, I will round it off with how these leaders should be treated by those they serve. Many of my readers are aware that I am speaking of the distinctives of biblical Baptists and it is not my intent here to do otherwise.

In His care,
Brother John

*I have reserved the spiritual gifts issue for other posts one of which is linked above and here.

Preliminary Remarks as to the Office of the Pastor

In making some preliminary remarks as to the office of the pastor, I assume that it is understood (for the most part) that it is usually the pastor/s or deacon/s who also serve as treasurer, trustee, and other offices that are necessary to conduct the "business” side of a local church (cf. Acts 6:3)

It is important to state that an office is not a spiritual gift*, and a spiritual gift alone does not qualify anyone for an office (cf. The Particular Gifts).

An officer is one who is elected or appointed to an office or position of authority or a certain function under authority. In a Baptist church the pastor must be a church member and his calling must be affirmed or recognized by a vote of the church (cf. Acts 6:5).

Pastors are given a trust to perform the task or duty to be carried out with the authority of the church. This has to do with the “hats he wears", or "the titles he bears". What then are these titles he bears? There are three titles for this office; they are pastor, elder, and bishop.

Pastor
Poimen GK, means shepherd and is used of those who care for sheep (cf. Luke 2:8) It is also used in the NT of church leaders (see Eph. 4:11). Related words are the noun "flock" (poimnion) and the verb "to feed" or "to shepherd" (poimaino). In John 10:11, Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd (poimen). Compare this 1Peter 5:4 where Peter refers to Christ as the Chief Shepherd. Both of these examples speak of Christ's care for His people. We may think of Him as our Good Pastor and the Chief Pastor. Similarly, the verb poimaino, "to feed" or "to shepherd" can mean "to pastor" when ministy to people are in view. This is exactly the case when Jesus told Peter to, "...feed [His] sheep." John 21:16.

Elder
Presbuteros GK. Suggests one who is older wiser and or more mature. I believe a young man who demonstrates characteristics of maturity and wisdom may also fill the office of elder. What do you think are marks of maturity and wisdom? Why does a pastor have to be mature? How does maturity develop?

Bishop
Episcopos GK, refers to an overseer, one who leads and give direction. What are some areas in a local church a pastor should oversee?

This is one office with three titles. It is proper for me to speak of pastor De Courcy, elder De Courcy, or bishop De Courcy. (cf. Acts 20:17-38; Titus 1:5,7a; 1Pet.5:2; 1Tim.5:17) Actually, he prefers bishop, but his wife and friends call him Philip.

In His fellowship,
Brother John

*Teaching of spiritual gifts may be accesed in the achives of June and July 2006 of The Earnest Contender.

More Preliminary Remarks as to the Office of the Pastor

I feel a bit more explanation may be warranted on this topic. Even as I am offering this reintroduction I anticipate further questions as to the biblical office of pastor. I am not speaking here of a non-biblical, worldly pattern that perhaps some are inclined to embrace, this may come into better focus as we move to the qualities not the qualifications of a pastor. Let's bear with one another on this. May I remind you my purpose here is not exposing unbiblical views and there are plenty of them. Neither is it my intent to express here the various legitimate patterns as there are many . Instead, I am expressing the biblical Baptist view.

Hear the Word...

Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

1Timothy 3:1-7; This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Titus 1:5-9 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

1Peter 5:1-3; The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock.

I can almost hear one of my brothers saying "Break it down for 'em Oblio!"

I'll do my best...

The Verse
Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock1, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers2, to feed3 the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

The Words
1 poym'-nee-on Neuter of a presumed derivative of poym'-nay a flock (literally or figuratively): - flock, fold.; a flock, that is, (figuratively) group (of believers): - flock. (Strong's)

2 ep-is'-kop-os From epi or ep-ee' and skopos; a superintendent, that is, Christian officer in general charge of a (or the) church (literally or figuratively): - bishop, overseer. (Strong's)

3 poy-mah'ee-no From poimēn; to tend as a shepherd (or figuratively superviser): - feed (cattle), rule. (Strong's)

I previously pointed up that, the Greek word poimen means shepherd this is where we get our word pastor. This can be discovered from Vine’s, Strong’s, Thayer’s, Zophiadite's, or my new favorite resource e-Sword.

The Context
In the text above Paul is exhorting some elders from Ephesus (Acts 20:17) He is confident that his mission was complete before moving ahead in God’s plan for him (Acts 20:27).

The Explanation
Let’s note that Paul indicates that it was the Holy Spirit that made (the Greek here can mean made, appoint, or ordain) them overseers not an apostolic laying on of hands or appointment. Paul is telling these elders that the Holy Spirit made them overseers (bishops) in other words the apostles may have had a formal recognition of these men of God, but it was the Holy Spirit that ordained them. These, recognized elders who the Holy Spirit ordained as bishops are then told here to feed (pastor) the church of God.

The Point
This text uses three words to denote one group of men performing three aspects of the same office. The elders were also the bishops and their job was to pastor.

Bear all this in mind as we unfold the next passage

The Passage
Titus 1:5-9 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders1 in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop2 must be blameless, as the steward3 of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

The Words
1 pres-boo'-ter-os Comparative of presbus (elderly); older; as noun, a senior; Christian "presbyter": - elder (-est), old. (Strong's) This term denotes wisdom and a level of maturity.

2 ep-is'-kop-os ...a superintendent, that is, Christian officer in general charge of a (or the) church (literally or figuratively): - bishop, overseer. (Strong's)

3 oy-kon-om'-os ...a house distributor (that is, manager), or overseer, that is, an employee in that capacity; by extension a fiscal agent (treasurer); figuratively a preacher (of the Gospel): - chamberlain, governor, steward.

The Context
Paul is instructing Titus, one of his protégées. By this time Titus was seasoned in the work of ministry and it is apparent that he had the spiritual gift of administration. Paul, therefore, wrote, "For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders1 in every city, as I had appointed thee..." Paul then mentions some character traits we will call qualities (more on this later), then declares "For a bishop2 must be..." again linking eldership with the bishopric. One may ask, "What are these elder/ bishops to do?" Paul would then answer that they are to be, "Holding fast the faithful word as [they] hath been taught, that [they] may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers."

The Explanation
If you will allow me some liberty to cross reference with what we have seen in Acts 20:28 we can conclude that these elder/ bishops were to act as shepherds feeding the flocks.

The Point
If you see in what I see in this passage too, then you can agree that once again we see one office with three descriptions.

The Passage
1Peter 5:1-3; The elders1 which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder2, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed3 the flock4 of God which is among you, taking the oversight5 thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over6 God's heritage, but being examples to the flock4.

The Words
1 pres-boo'-ter-os This has been covered above.

2 sumpresbuteros ...a co-presbyter: - presbyter, also an elder.

3 poimaino ...to tend as a shepherd (or figuratively superviser): - feed (cattle), rule.

4 poimnion ...a flock, that is, (figuratively) group (of believers): - flock.

5 episkopeo ...to oversee; by implication to beware: - look diligently, take the oversight. Bishop

6 kat-ak-oo-ree-yoo'-o ...to lord against, that is, control, subjugate: - exercise dominion over (lordship), be lord over, overcome.

The Context
Peter here is exhorting elders reminding them and perhaps himself that they are on the same team and on the same level in other words though Peter has apostolic authority, and though here he is speaking ex-cathedra he is no Pope! He identifies himself as a co-elder. It was important for the readers to understand this, at that time, although empire-wide ban on Christianity had not yet taken place they were still oppressed, living godly lives among pagans. BTW its important for those who read this letter today to understand this instead of exulting Peter we need to keep our sight on the archipoimen, the head shepherd: - chief shepherd, Jesus Christ.

The Explanation
Paul is not the only apostle that speaks of this one office of elder/pastor/bishop. Here we see the elders being exhorted to pastor the church and being careful in their bishopric not to be overlords. Peter set forth an example referring to himself as a co-elder.

Conclusion of Preliminary Remarks
The Holy Spirit co-Author of the passages above used three words to describe this one office. Perhaps He did so to give us a fuller idea of what this office involves. Pastor points to the care, feeding, protection and comforting of God's people. Elder emphasizes that he is mature, sound in the faith among God's children. Bishop bears marks of one who guides, directs, and give oversight to God's church. We most often use the word pastor because it is the most endearing of the three.

I hope this further exlination helps others to see that Baptists derive thier pattern from the Bible.

Stay salty,
brother John

The Qualities of the Pastor, NOT the Qualifications of a Pastor

The office of a pastor is misunderstood by many.
Some may view the pastor as one who carries the load of the church. To some he is an employee of the church to perform certain spelled out duties such as a CEO, and/or CFO. To others he is the president of the board of directors that call themselves deacons (another misunderstood office). The Bible points up that a being a pastor is not so much about what a man does, as much as it is who he is. It’s not his position in the church described, it is his profession of Christ defined. It’s not about his certified qualifications, it's about his character qualities. Some may ask, "What is a biblical pastor?” To answer this question our appeal must be to the Scriptures.

If this were an expositional piece on Acts (and it is not) one may perhaps lay it out like this:

Paul's Example to Pastors (please read Acts 20:17-27).
Note: Paul is not using mere words here. Paul is not being haughty, with a "looking down his nose" attitude. Instead, Paul has lived the life he is talking about. Paul is a fine example of a pastor. May God raise up more like him in our day.

Paul's Exhortation to Pastors (please read Acts 20: 28-35).
Note: Keep in mind that Paul is exhorting these elders in words also. Paul is bringing to their memory what he did and how he has lived, etching in their mind the training they have received (v.31). Paul is saying in effect, "...this is how to be a good minister ... so be a good minister!" You and I can, and should be good ministers in our day.

These thoughts of Paul were expanded, and delivered to one of his young protégés... Timothy.

This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (1Timothy 3:1-7)

Paul parallels these thoughts when he addressed the following shipment to another one of his protégés, Titus,

If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (Titus 1: 6-9)

Let's unpack these thoughts of Paul so we too can value the tenacity of our pastor/s. BTW taking a closer look is not the same as inventing hidden meanings in our texts. There is plenty, enough here in plain, normal language to convey just what the Holy Spirit intends.

In 1Timothy 1:5; 3:1; 4:9; Titus 3:8; Paul uses the exact same segue from one thought to the next. It is, in effect, an introduction to a new body of ideas he wishes to convey. It is Paul's way of arresting our interest so we will pay attention to what will follow. He comes out like the quickest draw in the west, with two six guns bold and blazing... "This is a true saying..."! The word in the Greek is pis-tos' it means, "objectively trustworthy; subjectively trustful: - believe (-ing, -r), faithful (-ly), sure, true." (Strong's) With our attention captured, and focused on what follows Paul says, "...if a man..." (ei tis GK. it means "any man." I take this to mean any man: when this was first written, when this was first read, when it is being read in our day, and when future generations read it till the Lord comes) "...desire the office of a bishop..." (Strong's says, "episkopē ...specifically [means] the Christian 'episcopate':- the office of a 'bishop', bishoprick, visitation.") ...he desireth a good work."

In both letters it is clear that Paul is speaking about the office, position, responsibility, or, more biblically, the stewardship of a bishop.

This is a true saying, if a man (ei tes, any man) desire (oregomai) the office of a bishop, he desireth (epithumeō) a good work. The fact that the first word translated "desire" oregomai is in the middle voice and carries the meaning, to stretch oneself, that is, reach out after (long for)... and the second word translated "desire" from epithumeō to set the heart upon, that is, long for (rightfully or otherwise):- covet, desire... lends credence to the proposal that this is a permanent office of the church that any man through the church age may desire. "What kind of work is it?", one may ask. It is a good work! John Darby has commented on this saying, "The apostle next points out to Timothy the qualities necessary for a bishop or a deacon... He supposes here that there were some who desired to undertake this work. It was a good work." (Synopsis of the Old and New Testament J. N. Darby) I would add that, "...it still is a good work!"

Think about it...
The qualities of a pastor are then listed. These should be plain enough to understand; read them trough carefully. Highlight the one's that are in both passages note the ones that are not. It may also be worth while to notice the positives and negative (eg. what a pastor is and what a pastor is not). See if you agree with me that a biblical pastor is who a man is not what he does. It is who a man is (inwardly) that determines what he does (outwardly) not the other way around.

In His fellowship,
Brother John

The Vote

In Acts 1:26 we read:

“And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.”

The word numbered is sugkatapsēphizō

Thayer Definition:
1) be depositing a ballot in the urn (i.e. by voting for) to assign one a place among, to vote one a place among
2) to vote against with others, i.e. to condemn with others
Part of Speech: verb

In Acts 14: 22-23 note:
“Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.”

The word ordained is cheirotoneō

Thayer Definition:
1) to vote by stretching out the hand
2) to create or appoint by vote: one to have charge of some office or duty
3) to elect, create, appoint
Part of Speech: verb

The role of the local churches not the apostolic office is emphasized in Acts 18:16-24

...thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care
into the heart of Titus for you. For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but
being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you. And we have sent with
him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches; And
not that only, but who was also
chosen [or voted, cheirotoneō as we have
previously looked at in Acts
14:23] of the churches to travel with us with this
grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and
declaration of your ready mind: Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in
this abundance which is administered by us: Providing for honest things, not
only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. And we have sent
with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things,
but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.
Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellow helper concerning
you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches,
and the glory of Christ. Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the
proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.

Doing church, as instructed in 1Corinthians, should be decent and orderly (cf. 1Cor.14:40). If you are a member of a local church you have a responsibility to God and the church to fast pray and vote, this is how the church moves forward.

In His fellowship,
Brother John

The Qualities of the Pastor Delineated

These should be plain enough to understand:

1Tim.3:1-7
"A bishop then must be blameless..." NOT SINLESS, all the pastors said, "Amen!"

"...husband of one wife..." there may be some debate on what is meant by "one wife", it is not my purpose here to debate this.

"...vigilant..." the Greek word for this means, "vigilant". Webster's says, "Watchful; circumspect; attentive to discover and avoid danger, or to provide for safety."

"...sober..." means clear minded. A pastor needs to be a clear thinker.

"...of good behavior...", or orderly [in conduct].

"...given to hospitality..." Dear pastors (who may be reading this post) are you inviting?

"...apt to teach..." this may include the spiritual gift of teaching, but the quality is in the word "apt". In other words instructive.

"...not given to wine..." Thayer's says,"given to wine, drunken", is the meaning.

"...no striker..." Pastors should not be quarrelsome.

"...not greedy of filthy lucre..." I am no longer surprised when well dressed "pastors" beg for a seed of faith offering (meaning one's life savings) from the pulpit, or from a TV or radio audience, with the "promise" of prosperity quoting, "...it is better to give than to receive...". I don't know anyone who has ever received a check from any of these religious shysters who live like kings.

"...patient..." You want me to leave the pastors alone and move on to the office of deacon right now... don't you?

"...not a brawler..." Webster's says this is "A noisy fellow; a wrangler." Not contentious would be a better rendering, meaning not given to angry debate; not quarrelsome. In other words, pastors, don't be an argument waiting to happen.

"... not covetous..." Not avaricious, in other words not greedy of gain; nor immoderately desirous of accumulating property, (esp. that which belongs to others).

"...One that ruleth well his own house having his children in subjection with all gravity..." The charge here is that a man must be able to establish and maintain order in his home. The man must be the head of his home and must have the respect and honor of his children which will be apparent by their behavior. Why is this important? The following verse explains...

"...For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God...." Here is where the Bible puts the shoe leather to the pavement. Paul encapsulates all he has said up to this point and makes it very practical indeed. If you are a pastor (or if you desire to be a pastor) you have the responsibility, duty, and mandate to be one in your home as your first and primary priority. Paul's statement plainly says you are to rule your house and implies that this how to properly care for the church of God! The word care (Gk.epimeleomai) is a verb or action word it means to care for (physically or otherwise):-take care of. This word seems to be unique to Paul and his companion Luke. It is the word employed in Luke 10:34-35 the context of which is the good citizen. It is a pastoral word. This is all the more true when speaking of the oversight of the church of God.

"...Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil..." You may be talented, gifted, hold a prestigious position in your field of expertise, but if you are a new believer, or if you are immature in your faith... you are not yet ready for this office! If, however, you desire this "good work" pursue it! How? First become a pastor in your character, then home, then the church.

"...Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil...." The pastorate is not for those who can't do anything else very well. It is for those who by virtue of doing well have a good reputation outside of the church.

I once asked a former Sunday School teacher how he could treat people so harshly in his position as vice president of a small company and yet act so charitable at church. His reply: "This is work, not church! There is a difference." Yes, there is... your reputation is important outside of the church as well. God cares how we treat unbelievers, not just the variety that visit the church service. God cares about how we work. He cares about how we conduct business. Listen, brothers and sisters, God's reputation is on the line too! He's living in your life to draw others to Himself, not just so He can be glorified by means of your personal satisfaction in Him. This may fly in the face of some popular theological idea, but this is the Word of God! Not many of us are as satisfied with God's purpose for trials as we are saatisfied with a juicy steak; that's OK. He is still just no mater what He serves us, and how we respond to everything matters. This is especially true of pastors.

The Parallel Passage

Titus 1: 6-9
"If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly." (v6.)

Paul here throws children into the mix. He says that it is important for pastors to have faithful (our word pis-tos' remember? objectively trustworthy; subjectively trustful) children on the positive side. On the negative side they are to be of such character that they would not be accused of being profligate or being abandoned in moral principle and in vice. Children of pastors should be "good kids" not insubordinate, or disobedient. Why is this? What do you think? Is this because children are reflective of parents? Could it be because a pastor has enough to deal with in his church, so he doesn't need added burden of the constant care of bratty kids? Is it proof that he rules his house well?

"...For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God..." (v.7a)

We have seen in 1Timothy that blameless does not mean sinless. Paul mentions it twice here in Titus. In conjuntion with his wife and in conjunction with stewardship. "There are two things Satan will use to bring down a pastor..." an old timer used to tell me, "...women and money." Brother pastor (reading this post) fly from these unsatisfying luers. Brothers and sisters (reading this post) pray for your pastors, that Satan would not cause them to fall. This is not funny bussiness left for sitcoms... this is Christ's reputation! Again, and quietly, I urge the saints to pray for their leaders.

"...For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre..." (v.7)

Does any one see a conection here? I know for me, I get the most ticked-off when I don't get my way... that is, when I think I deserve to get my own way yet don't. I also know some guys and gals (not that you, dear reader, fall here) that, when they don't get thier own way, they get angry, then cling to the bottle, or pick a fight. The pastor is not to behave like a hocky player, nor a brawling drunk! He is, however, to be...

"...a lover of hospitality [fond of guests] a lover of good men [fond of good, that is, a promoter of virtue: - love of good men.], sober [curbing one’s desires and impulses, moderate as to opinion or passion], just [rightious], holy, temperate [strong yet self controled]. (v.8)

The pastor is to be "...Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught..." (v.9a) Why?

"...that he may be able by sound doctrine [healthy, uncorrupt, true, teaching that flows from a faithfull hermenutic of Scripture] both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers." (v.9)

Why would God want "any man" to do this? Drop down to Titus 1:13, "...that they may be sound in the faith..."

The prophet Jude wrote, "Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." (v.3)

Think about it...

This is the ministy.

Stay salty,
Brother John

The Fuctions of the Pastor

Pastor… this is one office with three titles. The words bishop, elder, and yes, pastor, are used interchangably in the Bible (cf. Acts 20:17-38; Titus 1:5,7a; 1Pet.5:2; 1Tim.5:17). For a review of this biblical expose’ see this post. We have also made lengthy exposition about the character of the pastor here and here if one should wish to read more.

The very words employed by the Holy Spirit are suggestive of the various functions of a pastor. One of the pastor’s primary concerns is to care for the sheep. He is to feed the sheep. He is to protect the sheep. He is to lead the sheep. This involves planing and executing Spirit controlled direction. This must be done with patience and determination. Being a pastor is not for the weak.

One of the pastor’s primary concerns is to care for the sheep.
It is the view of this Baptist, that a pastor should be free from the cares of this world as much as posible. This is one reason the apostle Paul wrote, 1Co 9:9 and 1Ti 5:17-18 Let me reiterate… one of the pastor’s primary concerns is to care for the sheep! This means he is not to be out looking for work ... not under sinks, fixing cars, selling “stuff”, walking a beat, delivering a route, flying a plane, building bridges, designing “things”, paving roads, or repairing military jets. A pastor should not have to be a tent maker! If those in Corinth were really spiritual they would not have to be told “…who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?” (v.7) Paul writes as though this was something that should have been plain to them. Paul gave no less than nine (9) examples of how this should work out, can you lift them from the text? When a church is obedient to her Lord they will have a mutually symbiotic relationship with the pastor that God ordains to lead them.

The pastor, being free from the cares of this world, will be able to view the sheep as one of his primary concerns.

He is to feed the sheep. That is, provide spiritual nourishment. This involves timing, training, and teaching.

He is to protect the sheep. That is, be on the look out, ready to defend from the wolves and bears of ungodly fads, false teaching, and worldly practices.

He is to lead the sheep. That is to set a course and follow it through. A pastor is to be a leader not a pusher. He must go out ahead of the flock and take them were he already is, not tell them were to go. A flock of sheep cannot, and will not, be able to follow one who is standing still. Sheep will wander.

One of the pastor’s primary concerns is to care for the sheep. Feeding, protecting, and leading involves planning and implementing Spirit-controlled direction. This must all be done with patience and fortitude. A favorite book of mine that details the function of the pastor is by A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 by Phillip Keller.

One of the pastor’s primary concerns is to care for the sheep. Feeding, protecting, and leading involves planing and executing Spirit controlled direction. This must all be done with patience and fortitude. One may ask, “How is this worked out in real life?” We may draw several principals from the Word of God on how this is to be done. Besides his own family, the sheepfold of a local church is only one of the pastor’s primary concerns. There are at least two other responsabilities that should take top priority in the man of God’s choosing, even abbove his calling as a pastor. These two functions are…

Next post: The Top Two Priorities of a Pastor

The Functions of a Pastor: Part Two

The sheepfold of a local church is ONE of the pastor’s primary concerns. We have noticed that a pastor is to feed, protect, and lead the sheep. This involves planning and executing Spirit controlled direction. How is this to be done? There are at least two other responsibilities that should take top priority in the man of God’s choosing, even above his calling to the "office of pastor". These two top priorities will serve to answer how a pastor is to feed, protect, and lead the sheep. We will draw these principles from the Word of God.

Acts, as you may know is a historical book of the birth and growth of a new organic phenomenon called the church. The church is both an organism and an organization. Acts 6 describes one of the early growing pains of this new organism:

And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. (Acts 6:1)

“What can be done?”, the young church must have been asking. The wise apostles had an idea…

Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. And the saying pleased the whole multitude… (Acts 6:2-5) [Emphasis mine]

The apostles had great wisdom in this matter and realized that this organism needed further organization. They called the church to a Baptist business meeting to present the situation and propose the solution. The whole multitude of disciples somehow, and we are not told exactly how, expressed their approval. What principals can we draw from this passage? What are the primary priorities of a pastor? What are the tools the pastor should employ to feed, protect, and lead the church of the living God?

They are listed for us in the above passage. Yes, it is true that Acts 6:4 is speaking specifically of the apostles; however it offers practical application for pastors as well. The two top priorities of a pastor should be prayer and the ministry of the Word.

Prayer

Nothing can sustain powerful preaching like prayer. There have been many books written on the subject of prayer, and much could be said on this topic. It is my conviction that one can not grow much without this line of communication, that God has so graciously opened up, for all who trust in His finished work on Calvary. This is no less true for pastors. What it all boils down to is this, talking and communing with God. I recommend any of the following books to the reader on the topic of prayer:

Power in Prayer (C.H. Spurgeon)
Pray (Ben Haden)
Praying With Authority (Theodor H. Epp)
Sense and Nonsense About Prayer (Lehman Strauss)*
Spiritual Warfare (R.C. Stedman)
The Necessity of Prayer (E.M.Bounds)
The Power of a Praying Wife (Stormie Omartian)**
The Reality of Prayer (E.M.Bounds)
The Teaching of Jesus on Prayer (Lewis MacLachlan)
What God does When Men Pray (William Carr Peel)

The two top priorities of a pastor should be prayer and the ministry of the Word.

The ministry of the Word of God

The pastor of a church should be skilled in the ministry of the Word of God. That means, perhaps among other things, and or along side of other interests, he needs time to pray and be ministered to, through the Word. Acts 20:28 gives this admonition, "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood."

A pastor needs to spend time in the Word if he is to be effective in the ministry of the Word. A pastor will:

Read the Word
Study the Word
Teach the Word
Preach the Word
Live by the Word

Perhaps one reading this has a desire to be a pastor, such a one desires a good work! If one is called to preach he is also called to prepare. Preparation occurs in a variety of ways, we dare not limit God. For some it may mean Bible collage and/or seminary. It may involve mentoring from a more mature believer. If you have a desire to preach you may gain experience by volunteering at a local mission, take a friend with you to offer realistic and constructive criticism. Do some street preaching, or ask to conduct services to nursing homes (this usually involves a team). Most importantly be yourself, develop your own homiletic. On this topic I would recommend the book, Lectures to My Students (C. H. Spurgeon).

A pastor is to feed, protect, and lead a congregation in the onward and upward God given direction. That is why I believe the top priorities of a pastor are prayer and the ministry of the Word of God. It is best, in my view, if a church can afford to pay their pastor/s. The idea is that a pastor be unencumbered as much as possible by the cares of this world. However, there are Baptist pastors who support themselves with employment as well. In this situation the church, then, should take further responsibilities to support their pastor. The way a pastor is treated by the church is so important. Sheep support their shepherds in many ways, they are not vicious animals... have you ever heard of an attack sheep? In a latter post we will look at the flip side of being a pastor, that is, the treatment he is to receive from the church.

* My personal favorite, especially for those who like an easy and simple and practical read.
**Good one for the ladies.

Two Offices: Deacon, the Second of Two Offices

For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. (1Tim.3:13)

Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. (Phil.1:1-2)

Without appology, biblical Baptists recognize two offices; the office of pastor, and the office of deacon. These two offices are not really distinctives of Baptists; almost every church has a pastor and deacons. The biblical distinctive is that Baptists have only two offices within the local church*, pastors and deacons. Biblical Baptists recognize no church offices outside of, or over the local church. The aim of this post is to highlight the second of the two church offices of biblical Baptists; that is the office of the deacon.

The Etemology

A. Diakonos

Thayer Definition:
1) one who executes the commands of another, especially of a master, a servant, attendant, minister
1a) the servant of a king
1b) a deacon, one who, by virtue of the office assigned to him by the church, cares for the poor and has charge of and distributes the money collected for their use
1c) a waiter, one who serves food and drink

Part of Speech: noun masculine or feminine

Simply put the word diakonos means servant or minister. English translations of the Bible sometimes translated this word, and other times transliterated this word. The words “servant” and “minister” are examples of the word translated. When it is transliterated the word employed is deacon.

In the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, the noun deacon only appears twice (see the key verses above). The possible and probable reason for this is that the translators used the word “deacon” when they believed that the context referred to the office of deacon, and “servant” or “minister” when they felt the context indicated a more general use of the word.

B. Diakoneō

Thayer Definition:
1) to be a servant, attendant, domestic, to serve, wait upon
1a) to minister to one, render ministering offices to
1a1) to be served, ministered unto
1b) to wait at a table and offer food and drink to the guests
1b1) of women preparing food
1c) to minister, i.e. supply food and necessities of life
1c1) to relieve one’s necessities (e.g. by collecting alms), to provide take care of, distribute, the things necessary to sustain life
1c2) to take care of the poor and the sick, who administer the office of a deacon
1c3) in Christian churches to serve as deacons
1d) to minister
1d1) to attend to anything, that may serve another’s interests
1d2) to minister a thing to one, to serve one or by supplying any thing
Part of Speech: verb

The verb diakoneo means “to serve” or “to minister” it is thus translated about 30 times in the NT. In 1Tim.3:10 and 13, however, it is rendered “use the office of a deacon”. Here again, the translators of the KJV must have felt that the context dictated a distinction between a servant in general and the office in particular.

C. Diakonia

Thayer Definition:
1) service, ministering, especially of those who execute the commands of others
Part of Speech: noun feminine

The texts we will use for this study contain some form of the Greek word diakonos. These verses (with the probable exception of Acts 6:1-7) do not necessarily speak of the office proper; they do, however, use the same word (or form of it) that is transliterated elsewhere as “deacon”. These passages and their contexts will help us understand what a biblical deacon is and what he does.

Having seen the etymology we are now in a better position to look at the texts on the deacon’s qualifications (or qualities), and his responsibilities. This we will do if God permits in future posts as we continue to focus on the second of the two church offices of biblical Baptists; that is the office of the deacon.

In His fellowship,
Brother John

*Disclaimer: Since these two offices are found in the NT, a local church must have both offices to conform to a Scriptural pattern. That is not to say that it is wrong to have other offices within a local church such as treasurer, trustee, Sunday School Superintendent, as the need arises, but the Bible doesn’t insist on these and they are not to be equated with the two under examination. It may also be presumed, for our purposes here, that these other "offices" are often filled by pastors and/or deacons.

Two Offices: Deacon, the Second of Two Offices (part 2)

We are continuing our focus on the second of the two church offices of biblical Baptists; the first, as you recall is the office of pastor the second is the office of the deacon. Having done the etymology on the word deacon, we are now prepared to look at the texts on the deacon’s qualifications (or qualities), and his responsibilities.

The Qualifications (or Qualities) of the Deacon

Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. (Acts 6:2-7)

Many scholars agree that this passage describes the birth of the office of the deacon. This is where the apostles charged the church to… “choose” (NIV) or “select” (NASB) "...seven men who would tend to the business of “serving tables”. What kind of men were they to be? Did the apostles suggest they be men who had successful carrier paths? Can you imagine the apostles saying, “choose seven financially successful men. We think you should get, a banker or two, an attorney, a couple of wealthy land owners, an entrepreneur, and what about a carpenter? Naw, get an Oil man instead… that should do it.”? This may seem somewhat humorous, but sadly it seems, even Bible believing churches look to these outward experiences of men to determine their qualifications. However, if the passage above is indeed speaking of deacons (and I believe it is), then the church should pay attention to the qualities mentioned to determine the metal of a man. We see here that they are to be “…men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom.” (v.3)

The development of this progressive organism called the church was given further instruction in 1Timothy 3:7-13; The adverb “likewise”, is held by some to refer to the office of bishop (eg. like the office of a bishop, the office of the deacon is to…), to others it is applied to the bishops standard of quality (eg. just as the bishops must be blameless, etc. so deacons must also be blameless etc.). Either way, deacons, “are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.” (1Tim.3:8-10; NIV)

The Responsibilities of the Deacon

J.N. Darby makes an interesting observation in his Synopsis of the Old and New Testaments,

It will be noticed that the apostle speaks
of the wives of deacons, not those of bishops (except to say that these must be
the husbands of one wife only). Bishops had a charge, in which they were
occupied with souls and exercised authority in the church, in which women were
not to act. Deacons were necessarily occupied with family details and
circumstances. In these women might well be concerned and often very useful. In
the spiritual cares of elders they had nothing to do. It was requisite therefore
that the wives of deacons should possess qualities which would cause their
husbands to be respected, and at the same time guard themselves from becoming
busybodies and tale-bearers.

This points up the fact that deacons had an important role in the life of the early church, and they do in the life of churches today too. Their responsibilities then and now, is to serve the pastor/s and the local church.

I asked our ABF class “In what ways do our deacons serve the pastor/s and the people of EBC?” We came up with this list of the ways deacons have touched our lives personally:

Visitation; prison, hospitals, homes of visitors, and shut ins
Caring for the widows and the needy
Assisting in the administration of ordinances
Keeping up the building and grounds of the church property
Assisting many in financial accountability and stewardship
Assisting in the programs and functions of the church
Advising and assisting the Pastor/s on various matters
Interviewing candidates for membership
Advising the church in various matters (to many to list here and maintain any interest)
Assisting the pastor/s and the church in seeking pastors to fill certain areas as needs may arise

These servants free the pastor/s to minister in areas of higher priority (i.e. prayer and the ministry of the Word of God), and help the church organize in other areas. In reality deacons are servants to the pastor and the church.

One last note, deacons:

Serve not dictate!

Serve not govern!

Serve under not over a pastor!

Minister not master!

Can I hear a deacon say, “Amen?”

Controversy: At the Earnest Contender Blog???

Elder Rule vs. Congregational Authority

My pastor, bishop Philip De Courcy, and I have found some room for a bit of disagreement between us. No! It’s not the kind that separates friends. I didn’t call him names and he didn’t give me a black eye. We just have a different perspective of the role of elders and deacons in our Baptist church. Now I am not trying to hang out the dirty laundry for the neighbors to see. I do want readers to understand that there can and is room for disagreement among friends. Perhaps you, dear reader, would like to engage and tell me how you feel. I may not always respond, but I’m sure there are those who would. Then again that may be assuming an awful lot.

Let me say up front I reject the "elder rule" model of government in favor of a "congregational" model (to greater and lesser degrees). I do not think that the whole church needs to weigh in on all decisions. However, I do think the church should be informed and led. I do believe that the church (including the elders and deacons) should finalize major decisions such as affirming her officers, selecting and sending out missionaries, and of course spending (if the amount exceeds the amount I have in my wallet, NOT). I think officers should then serve/lead in their God given capacities and in the dignity of their office. I also muse that the church be open to paid and/or non-paid, non-seminary trained elders, and that a significant amount of ministry should be to train (disciple) such men for His service. My pastor and I are really not too far apart on these ideas. Have you noticed that I repeat the phrase "I think" alot in this post? What do you think?

If you would like to hear his take visit pastor’s archives and help yourself to any of these messages.

Another brother and faithful elder has also helped me work through some of my views. You can read all about it at Anvil and Fire.

Brother Joe, who is an all-round great guy, offered this wisdom. You can always find followship at Joe's Jottings.

Think about it...
What is your view, elder rule or congregational authority?

Separation of Church and State

Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's. (Matthew 22:21)

We have been working down our acrostic of the biblical distinctives of Baptists. We have seen the importance of each one of these biblical distinctives:

B A P T I S T S

We now come to S for Separation of Church and State. How do I feel about this issue? Well let me put it this way; I wear my feelings on my shirt.

Separation of church and state is perhaps one of the most readily accepted distinctives of biblical Baptists both within and without Christendom. We enjoy our religious freedom in the United States of America. We have been blessed in this nation with religious liberty because some have felt that it was and is important enough to live and die for, work and fight for. Indeed it is! The U.S. armed forces defend our freedom and for this reason our present troop’s and the veterans of every era deserve our respect and honor. They are the defenders of our liberty NOT the ACLU! Don't get me going... but do check out this fine post on the ACLU.

We should not forget, however, that this idea did not just come up one afternoon in some congressional think tank. It was not a mere proposal drafted by a political party and voted on because no one had anything better to do one day. This is the doing of almighty God! All freedom loving nations owe their allegiance to Him. Just how did God accomplish this providential feat?

My temptation here is to give details about men of God, such as Roger Williams: The “Windmill in the Low Countries”, John Clarke: “A Lively Experiment… With Full Liberty in Religious Concernments”, Isaac Backus: “A Door Opened for Equal Christian Liberty”, and John Leland: “The Liberty I Contend for Is More than Toleration”* All of whom were (at least for some time) Baptists. Since others have done that work I will restrain myself and express the biblical distinctives of Baptists on the separation of church and state. This will be a biblical approach not a political approach. Here's an outline to get you thinking...

I. What Is Separation of Church and State?

II. What Does the Bible Say about Separation of Church and State?

III. What about the First Amendment and Separation of Church and State?

IV. How Can Government Control the Churches?

V. What is the Christian's Responsibility to Government?

VI. What is the Government's Responsibility to the Church?

My hope is that this will be an edifying and thought provoking topic for all, not just Baptists.

*I recommend the book “Baptists and the American Tradition” by Robert C. Newman.

What Is Separation of Church and State?

I What Is Separation of Church and State?

Separation of church and state means that the church will not control the government and that the government will not control the church.

a) There should be no union between the church and the state.

b) The state should not control religious affairs.

c) No religion should control governmental affairs.

This does not mean that Christian’s should not respect, sustain, and obey civil government as long as it does not violate the conscience or biblical convictions. It does not mean Christians should not get involved in government. Christian reader, we should at least pray and vote.

God has ordained three institutions: Family, in Genesis 2:20-25, God planned and blessed marriage/the home. The church, in Matthew 16:18, Jesus states He will build His church. God also established civil government.

Dr. L. Duane Brown, recognized as an authority on church trends and movements, articulates the establishment of civil government,

After Adam disobeyed the commandment of God and was cast out of the Garden of Eden, children were born to Adam and Eve (Gen. 4, 5). There were no social rules to follow and much wickedness developed because every man followed his own conscience. Soon the human race was completely corrupted except for Noah and his family (Gen. 6:5-8). Following the flood, God established a covenant with Noah (Gen.9) which included civil government. Its basis was the ultimate human retribution of capital punishment (Gen.9:5-6). Nowhere in Scripture has God rescinded this principle. (Biblical Basis for Baptists pp. 41, 42 RBP)

This means that churches should submit to governmental regulations intended to protect the health and safety of the public, but the government must not interfere with the beliefs and practices of a church or its ministries.

Separation of church and state, once again, means that the church will not control the government, and the government will not control the church.

The Bible and Separation of Church and State?

II. What Does the Bible Say about Separation of Church and State?

A. Caesar V God (Matt.22:15-22)
Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk. And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men. Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?

But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? Shew me the tribute money.

And they brought unto him a penny.

And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?

They say unto him, Caesar's.

Then saith he unto them,

Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.

In our text we see the Pharisees and the Herodians united (normally they are in opposition to each other) attempting to corner Jesus in a riddle for the purpose of reducing or eliminating His influence. They probably spent along time conjuring up this question “Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?” Feeling very smart, they might have said gleefully among themselves, “If Jesus answers, ‘Yes.’, we got him he will certainly anger the Jews and they will no longer accept anything he teaches. If on the other hand He says, ‘No.’, we got him because the loyal Romans will be angered and could and will probably accuse Him of rebellion against the government.” How disappointed they must have felt. Here, they were sure they had come up with the question that only God Himself could answer.

After Jesus was given a penny, and asked whose image is on it, they acknowledged that the image on it was that of Caesar. Then Jesus made this statement, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.” This must have made these professional religionists drop open their mouths because… “When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left him, and went their way.” (v.22)

There is so much one could extrapolate from this little passage, yet to stay on topic let me offer this morsel of application lifted from this text. There are two separate spheres for our respect and support, church and state. Christians today, have the duty and privilege to obey God and country!

God has ordained both the state and the church each with distinct and separate purposes. Romans 13:1-7 outlines the purposes of the state, while the church’s purposes are outlined in Matthew 28:19-20. These passages demonstrate the differing God-intended functions of church and state.

B. Earthly kingdom V Heavenly kingdom (Jn. 18:28-40)

John 18:28-40 is the account of Jesus standing before Pilate preceding His crucifixion. Jesus told Pilate: “My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.” (v.36) Jesus was acknowledging His kingship, but also that His kingdom was not presently (at that time) of this world, if it were His servants would fight for His deliverance. Since His kingdom had not yet been established in Jerusalem He would not permit them to fight.

God intends church and state to be kept separate until the King of Kings comes back and establishes His earthly kingdom.

C. Man’s authority V God’s authority

The apostles were jailed for proclaiming the gospel and commanded by the authorities not to teach in His name (see Acts 5:17-29). God delivered them from prison and via His angel, told them to keep preaching. The next morning the apostles were right back at the temple teaching. They were brought before the council for interrogation and asked, “Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name?” The response, “We ought to obey God rather than men.”

The apostles recognize the existence of two spheres of authority, God’s and man’s. We also see the way a believer should respond when faced with conflicting demands. When the human authorities make demands that call for disobedience to God, we must follow the example of the apostles and “…obey God rather than men.”

It is clear from the Bible that there are two yet separate spheres of authority God’s and man’s. The Christian today has an obligation to both. We should do our best to obey both, however, when faced with conflict we should always obey God over man. This goes back to our statement that, the church will not control the government and that the government will not control the church.

Think about it...

What are some ways you have obeyed both?

What are ways you have had to obey God rather than man?

Stay salty,
brother John

The First Amendment and Separation of Church and State?

The First Amendment’s intent was unmistakably to keep the
government from interfering with religion.

III. What about the First Amendment and Separation of Church and State?

The biblical concept of separation of church and state became part of The First Amendment to the United States Constitution, partly because of the influence of Baptists. It reads in part, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof…” This Law governs our nation in matters of church-state relations.

Notice if you will the phrase “Congress shall make no law…” few today understand that the First Amendment was to be applied to the federal government only, that it’s intent was to keep the government from establishing any denomination as officially sanctioned or forbidding any denomination free exercise thereof. (Both of these occurred in England, but that is another story.) A number of of the original thirteen states had their own established religion, a state church. The states did not want to loose their power to establish or prohibit a religion to the newly formed federal government of the United States of America.

Thank God this has changed in the last 200 (+) years. Now neither an individual state nor the federal government can establish or prohibit religion. Sadly, however, the First Amendment is often interpreted by some to mean that God must be kept out of government all together. This was not at all the intent! “Prove it.” You say. One needs only to visit Washington D.C. to see the inscriptions on many of the public buildings and monuments. God is clearly spoken of in speeches and actions of many of our national leaders (this is true even today). “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed in our money.

The First Amendment’s intent was unmistakably to keep the government from interfering with religion. However, one may ask, "Should Christians get involved in government?" Allow me to quote brother Joe Scoggins, “Indeed, we should, especially in a democratic republic, be extremely involved in guiding the thoughts of elected officials, voting for or against them and preventing them from instituting a state religion.” Amen!

I encourage my readers to visit a fellow Letter Carrier, and a good friend of mine at maildad for some practical ways to get involved in the communities around us.

Stay salty,
Brother John

Think about it...
What are ways you and I can get involved in government?

What ways can we affect our communities for good?

What can we do to encourage godly politicians?