The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum HowWouldYouAnswerThis?

Marie,

Ashamedly, I read through that entire comments section of that blog. I would have to agree that one of the Pastor's responsibilities is to "equip the saints for ministry", i.e., to be active in their congregation and without according to the gifts the Spirit of God has given to each. However, I'm with Tom Chantry who I believe saw/felt a movement to neutralize the unique OFFICE OF ELDER (and Deacon by default) so that what one is left with is one large mass of equals with a man appointed to be an "Enabler"; ya gotta love/hate that term, don't ya?

The harsh bifurcation which some denominations/churches practice, e.g., many of the Dutch Reformed varieties (cf. "Domini So-and-So") where there are Elders and all the rest is unwarranted from a biblical standpoint. However, the idea that there are no distinctive offices within the Church where men are called apart in order to serve first and foremost God and then the people of God is an equally odious trend happening today. When I read the NT, it isn't an "either/or" distinction but rather a "both/and" distinction. There IS a unique, honorable and austere OFFICE in the Church called, "Elder, Pastor, Bishop, Presbyter" who has been given by God certain distinct responsibilities and authority, who is and must also be a believer and a minister among the people.

Okay.... I'm done!

In His grace,