An elder speaks

[Jim]

In several threads on apostolic church structure and oversight of the local assembly there were requests to hear from elders who are baptized in Jesus' name and filled with the Holy Ghost who currently serve in a collegial eldership. I submitted a post with objections to collegial eldership to a man who currently serves in a collegial eldership. His response is copied below with the post of objections I sent to him copied below his response.


Response:

1. A single Bishop in every church? Where is that in the Bible? The truth is that in every single local church in the Bible we see a plurality of elders. The word Bishop is not a good translation of the Greek EPISKOPOS. The better translation is overseer, which speaks of the elders’ function. As men were anointed to see over the local church's functioning in the Spirit, they could then shepherd those believers with practical help. Notice the order, _ 1st seeing out of which comes pastoring _ (Acts 20:28). None of this has to do with an official position, it has everything to do with Holy Spirit anointing.


2. There simply is no Biblical basis for considering James the sole Bishop in Jerusalem. The fact that God anointed him to make a final observation in the Acts 15 debate, doesn’t then give him some official position from which he then would always have the final word. Such thinking is simply organizational. Christ’s body was never meant to be an organization with men holding official positions.


3. Paul, by the time of his death had recognized that the church world was in fact, quickly leaving its apostolic foundation (2Tim. 4:2,3). All of Asia was deserting him (2Tim. 1:15). Rev. 2,3 reveals the Asian churches with a clear measure of decline. Since collegial eldership simply cannot work without humble men deferring to each other along with the Holy Spirit giving the wisdom to come to one mind, it simply is not preposterous to think of men rather quickly giving away to one man in each place the right to make final decisions. It is much easier to do that and doesn’t require the level of constant humility and vigilance that collegiality requires. The truth is, people generally feel more secure in a defined and organized structure where they know who is in charge and generally what is going to happen next in a meeting. It is very easy to fall into such thinking ourselves - those of us who have seen the vision of gathering around the living Christ, to wait upon Him for direction in meetings as well as for the final word in an eldership dilemma. In fact, I've seen men slip from a place of preaching the centrality of Christ in which oversight is given by a plural group of men, to a place where they began to articulate one elder being more "equal" than the others - all in a matter of a few years. It simply is much easier to build something "successful looking" quicker that way. It's easier to get things done (especially things I want done) quicker if I'm in charge. When these men did so, they did not see themselves as deceived. They simply justified what they were doing by (rather unsuccessfully I might add) trying to portray James as a senior Bishop type minister in the Jerusalem church. For one to think that something like that couldn’t happen rather quickly all across the early church, indicates that he doesn’t yet see the importance of this truth in the Scriptures as well as the intensity with which Satan hates it. True plurality of elders is but a symptom of the regaining, in some measure, by Christ of His central role in His house. The truth is that men standing in the place of the Chief Shepherd (as senior pastor) in His own house is one of the great high places (Grk. HUPSOMA - high thing see 2Co.10:5) raised up against the knowledge of God in every place. True apostolic authority is beginning to address this again in our day. But bringing the thoughts of leaders into the obedience of Christ, _ many who are more persuaded by tradition than by the simple clear teaching of Scripture, is going to take some time. Historically, the first thing lost in apostolic teaching was this issue of Christ’s centrality; it will be the last restored. When His headship is again restored in practical expression, I believe He will come for us, for He will have been first fully welcomed back into His rightful place in our midst.


4. Here is a main problem. The brother here is finding safety in the traditions of the church and the historical record of how the church has functioned over the years. While we should always learn from history, our safety must be found in the Lord Himself and in His word. The truth is that the Holy Spirit has come to guide us into all truth (Jn. 16:13). That means there must be truth to be revealed in our future. But the brother here seems uncomfortable with that very prospect!


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Let's remember that the Lord not only hates the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, Rev. 2:6,15 (which literally means "conquerors of [over] the people") but he likewise spews out the Laodiceans (literally "rule by the people").

Revelation 3:14 And unto …the Laodiceans (rule by the people) write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness…
15 …thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.
16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

What am I saying? Two things.
1) Simply to beware of "reactionary" doctrine that swings the pendulum from one (unbiblical) extreme to the other because of a few bad experiences, or personal biases.
2) We are in the latter days of the Laodicean age- so beware of that!

For example, it has been noted-

"Nowhere do we find local assemblies operating under the leadership of a single man holding supreme authority."

This statement, though appearing accurate, is in reality quite misleading. Sole men- yes, In point of fact we do find actually nothing but a Single Bishop in absolutely every historically documented church from James at Jerusalem until on past Constantine. On the other hand, as to "supreme authority"- no, of course not, with the exception of those such as Diotrephes.

The Bible exposes the source of this kind of subtlety-

Acts 13:10 …O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?

2 Corinthians 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

Note these events in Acts-

Acts 15:13 And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me…
15 …it is written…
19 Wherefore my sentence is…

Acts 21:17 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
18 And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present.

(Note: this James, the brother of Jesus, was not only the sole Bishop of Jerusalem, but was also referred to as an apostle by Paul- Galatians 1:19 But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother.)

You see, it is a false dilemma to say there were plural elders in the churches and therefore couldn't be a sole bishop, because in Jerusalem, there existed both James the (sole) Bishop, and all the elders!

The simple, historical (if not undeniable) fact is that James was considered by all, including the Apostles, to be the (note: singular) Bishop in Jerusalem. Let us remember that Jesus Christ Himself planted the Church in Jerusalem…

Hebrews 8:1 …We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;
2 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.

Point being, there are those in these last days of the Laodicean Age, who would like to have us attempt to align toward a model of the church, not after that which the Lord pitched in Jerusalem, but after a vague interpretation of what may have been! That is, an undefined, undisclosed "hierarchy" (or lack thereof) in latter churches that we supposedly can see a "glimpse" of in the "development" of latter churches but only according to the interpretations of men.

Remember this point well- if the New Testament church was actually built upon an Apostolic foundation of MULTIPLE BISHOPS in every congregation, (and not on the absolutely unanimous historical record of "one city, one church, one Bishop") then, in fact, the Apostolic laid foundation of churches spread throughout the known world somehow became UNIVERSALLY corrupt, and that practically overnight, without any resistance whatever being historically recorded.

That would be quite a phenomenal feat! That ascribes an awful lot of persuasive power to the enemy of truth!

With that thought in mind, consider how many centuries of DOCUMENTED infighting, name-calling, anathematizing and ultimately bloodshed that it took to impose the Trinity doctrine (which wasn't even completely defined until Thomas Aquinas, remember) and you will begin to see the enormity of the allegation that the church changed from a collegial eldership to a sole bishopric, allegedly by the sleight of men, and that by the time Ignatius and Polycarp (students of the Apostles) began writing their epistles!

Such a thought is absolutely preposterous, and should be recognized for what it is- an insult to our intelligence!

2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you…
10 …them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, …despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.

[Jim]

Jude 1:3 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.
4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men…
8 Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities.


But I'm not saying there were man-made organizations like we have today in the book of Acts either! I'm just saying- we need a return to a true Apostolic Acts church, no more, no less, and certainly not the mere opinions of men- either Nicolaitane or Laodicean!

Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith…

1 Corinthians 12:28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

Acts 1:20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.

[Jim]

Apostolic and Prophetic Foundations Don Rumble

The Apostolic Task


Gathering Unto Men or Unto Christ?


Paul’s initial topic in his first epistle to the Corinthians concerns how an unhealthy view of the importance of men had divided the church at Corinth. Some were saying that they were “of Paul,” some “of Apollos,” and so on. Chapters 1 and 2 of the apostle’s letter reveal why there is no basis to elevate men in such a manner.

For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; that no flesh should glory in His presence. (1Cor. 1:26, 27, 29)

The foundation of a church is not based on the might nor the wisdom of men; it is based on Christ who is both the power and wisdom of God (1Cor. 1:24). Whenever a leader expresses godly wisdom, it is easy for others to think that he is very wise. If he is not quick to give all glory to Jesus, the foundation is obscured. Jesus is not seen as the source. People are then attracted to the speaker more than to Him who is the Wisdom of God. This leads to God’s people gathering around men rather than being built upon Christ. Paul made it clear to the Corinthians that it was not his wisdom or power that established them.

I was with you in weakness...my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom...that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. (1Cor. 2:3 - 5)

The wisdom seen in Paul was of God. The world simply could not understand it. Such wisdom has not so much to do with the qualities of the man speaking as it does with the One anointing him to speak. If ministries are not faithful to point this out, they will build followings around themselves and the Church will be weakened.

Today, such man-centeredness is a very real problem. In any given locality, we can find sects and groups, each with its own prominent leader(s). The united house of God is not in evidence; instead, divisions abound in the Lord’s Church. It is interesting to note that Paul began his epistle by dealing with this topic instead of the problem of sexual immorality (1Cor.5). I wonder how many in our day really understand this priority. It appears that none of the other truths of Paul’s letter to Corinth could be adequately covered until this issue was first addressed.

Today, many Christian leaders are urging the Church to be more involved in social and political issues. Our responsibilities to the society in which we live are emphasized without seeing how our divisions undermine the message of life that society desperately needs to hear. We must come back to this foundational issue.

In city after city, there does not exist a united church. The divisions, sects, and groupings of God's people do not express the glory of God’s house. It is no wonder the world considers the Church as irrelevant. We misrepresent God when we do not express the oneness of God!

How can our answers concerning social problems (or any other problems) have much impact when we do not function properly as His Church? We have settled for something less than God intended. This is not to minimize our responsibility to speak out concerning sin in society. However, we should first reexamine our foundations and give primary attention to the apostolic vision of the headship and centrality of Christ in the construction of God's house.


The Two-Fold Apostolic Task


The unity that God is restoring to His people today is not expressed in uniformity but in diversity. He is establishing His character within each of His diverse children so that with all our varied giftings and personalities, we will not divide from each other but reflect the oneness that exists in Him. He is building His house for eternity. Foundational to this is the restoration of apostolic and prophetic ministries (Eph. 2:20, 21). The unified nature of the Church will become increasingly evident as God again raises up these two “ascension gift ministries” to serve His people. Unity in the Body of Christ may well be the most important objective of apostolic ministry. The Lord will not release the fullness of His authority and power to a divided, disunited Church.

Let us consider the apostolic task. The word “apostle” means one sent forth on a certain mission. Men were consistently sent on specific missions in the early Church: Paul and Barnabas from Antioch (Acts 13:3, 4), Judas and Silas from Jerusalem (Acts 15:22, 27), and Peter and John from Jerusalem (Acts 8:14).

Clearly though, the most significant apostle was Jesus, who was sent forth from the Father (Heb. 3:1). He is the perfect pattern for revealing the apostolic function. As we consider His ministry we are able to understand what constitutes apostolic servanthood. He was sent with a two-fold task.

First, His ministry among men before Calvary:

I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. (Jn. 17:4)

Secondly, His ministry for men at Calvary. There Jesus declared;

It is finished! (Jn. 19:30)

These two objectives should identify the work of every apostolic servant.

1. In Jn. 17:4 Jesus said that He accomplished His work. What was this work? It was to accurately represent His Father on the earth. This was His first task. No matter who He was with - the religious system of His day, a sick child, the multitudes, Satan, or His twelve apostles - Jesus always represented God perfectly.

He who has seen Me has seen the Father.... (Jn. 14:9)

...He has explained Him. (Jn. 1:18 NASB)

Similarly, the first task of apostolic ministries is to accurately represent their Sender! Notice that Paul never referred to himself as an apostle of Antioch; he was an apostle of Jesus Christ. He was not called to represent and duplicate the experience of Antioch everywhere he went; his objective was to reveal Christ as the foundation, builder, and central figure of the house of God.

We are not called primarily to represent a religious system or even a local church; we are ambassadors of Christ. We must represent His interests in the earth and not our own. To the degree personal desires and interests become mixed with our ministry, we cease to be apostolic. Too many men today come into various cities and towns with their own agendas. They want people to submit to their perspective of what God is doing (or what He is going to do now that they are in town!). True apostolic servants will seek to ascertain what Jesus was doing in that area before they arrived. After recognizing this, they will endeavor to align their efforts with His.

2. Jesus' second task was to lay down His life as the foundation stone upon which the house of God would be built. In His death He was the stone which the builders rejected. However, through His Father’s predetermined plan He became the chief cornerstone of His house (1Pet. 2:7). Even though He was rejected by the religious leaders of His day, He was choice and precious in the sight of His Father (1Pet. 2:4).

God has purposed to build upon Him a house that will reflect the strength and glory of its foundation. Accordingly, the second task of apostles is to lay down their lives in service unto God so as to accurately unveil Christ the foundation. (We will look at this in more depth later.) When they do, what will be built through their ministries will not reflect their opinions, their ideas, their methods, their aspirations or even their interpretation of His instructions to them. It will express Him! He desires to raise up in every place an accurate, unique corporate expression of Himself. For this task, God must raise up men who recognize their total inability to build anything for Him.

Thus says the Lord, “Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool. Where then is a house you could build for Me? And where is a place that I may rest? For My hand made all these things, thus all these things came into being,” declares the Lord. “But to this one I will look, to him who is humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My word.” (Isa. 66:1, 2 NASB)

A truly humble and contrite servant who recognizes the total impossibility of building a house for God will keep his hands off what the Lord is constructing. He will recognize, point to and join in with what God is bringing forth but will refuse to organize what he thinks ought to come forth. Finally he will take no credit for what emerges from the Spirit’s ministry.


Lord, forgive me for when I have constructed in Your Name those things that were more an expression of my heart than of Yours. I lay down at Your feet all my own perspectives of what I believe You are going to do. Cause me to be more in love with Your person than with my opinions concerning You. And help me to discern the difference. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

[Jim]

Apostolic Attributes


Apostles and the Apostolic Church


Perhaps it can be said that prophets are concerned with the manifestation of God’s glory in His house, and apostles are consumed with building God’s house in such a way that His glory will abide in it. If there was only prophetic input, the church might be a bit chaotic. The house of God is not a mob of people each doing “his own thing.”

There is a correct way to build so that order is preserved with the spontaneous prophetic moving of the Holy Spirit. Structure does not bring forth life, but life does give structure. Correct building will be marked by the order and structure that springs from His life. Much of what has been built in Christendom needs adjustment. There is a great need for those with insight on how to build.

Apostles are ones who are sent (Grk. APOSTOLOS - “one sent on a mission”). They are not pastors, teachers or evangelists who travel. The idea that apostles are local leaders who have attained a certain level of experience is without basis in Scripture. For example, it is possible for a young man such as Timothy to be an apostle (1Thess. 1:1; 2:6). On the other hand, God may choose to expand a man’s heart, give him an apostolic burden, and release him to travel after he has been faithful pastorally in a local church for a number of years. That is His prerogative. The point is that an apostle is unique, with a specific calling, burden, emphasis and function. He will have unique insight into the mystery of the person of Christ and will seek to unveil Him as the foundation of God’s house. There is indeed more to being an apostle than simply having a traveling ministry (Eph. 3:4, 5).

This is not to say that pastors or teachers cannot travel in an extra-local capacity in the Body of Christ. If the whole Church is to be apostolic in nature, then obviously pastors, teachers and evangelists must be apostolic as well. Apostles will impart the grace of God as the Lord causes the whole Church to become apostolic. However, that will not make everyone in the Church an apostle.

What exactly is an apostle? It is clear that teachers teach, pastors pastor, evangelists evangelize and prophets prophesy. But how does one apostle? This term is unique when considered alongside the other four ministries. For example, Paul and Barnabas came from a group of prophets and teachers (Acts 13:1). It is likely that Paul was one of the teachers (2Tim. 1:11) and Barnabas one of the prophets. His original name was Joseph and he had been given the name Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”) by the twelve (Acts 4:36). Since encouragement is a key ingredient of prophecy (1Cor. 14:3), this could suggest a prophetic ministry in Barnabas. Yet both of these men became apostles (Acts 14:14).

This indicates that in New Testament times, an apostle would function as either a prophet or a teacher (or more probably as any of the four other ministries in a local church) before moving out apostolically. Yet not all prophets and teachers necessarily became apostles. For example, there is no record that Agabus - who was a prophet - ever became an apostle, even though he traveled among the churches. Thus, apostleship is a unique calling from God.

This raises a question: How does an apostle who has previously functioned as a teacher differ from one who is simply a teacher? There must be unique and identifiable elements of the apostolic ministry. Listed below are a few important attributes of all ministries. Let us consider how they apply specifically to apostles.

* Apostles are men of revelation. Obviously, anointed teachers will function by revelation as well. However, apostles will have a dimension of revelatory insight that will bring a foundational impartation of Christ to those listening.

...when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit. (Eph. 3:4, 5)

That which comes forth from their ministry will reflect the anointing of the Holy Spirit and not just mere methodology. Indeed, they are to be men of the Spirit. Their concern is not to find out “what works.” Rather, their consuming passion is to see Christ revealed on the earth in corporate expressions of His life. This is why divine order is such an important issue to them. They do not seek to establish proper structure so they can accomplish what they want; rather they desire God’s order implemented so that Jesus may be revealed in great diversity all across the face of the earth.* Whatever hinders this must be confronted and set aside. They do not seek a place for themselves; they want only to assist in the construction of the house God is building for Himself.

The reason they plant churches is not so they can expand their sphere of ministry; rather, they seek to see Him extend His kingdom both in and through His people. Having a large ministry is simply not their priority. If there is an increase of their realm of influence, it will merely be the by-product of the Lord increasing His government (Isa. 9:7).

Some men are considered to be apostles because they have been gifted in an administrative capacity. One reason for this is our tendency to admire those “who can get the job done.” Everyone loves a winner. It is often impressive to God’s people when men “take the bull by the horns” and get things accomplished. In other words, many want more than talk; they want action. It is fine to preach about mystical things like the love of God, but how do we take it in practical terms to the world?

Men are often thought of as apostolic whenever they are able to bring theological truths into concrete activity and mobilize others to follow them in their particular burden. However, God’s requirements of builders in the construction of His house are very specific. There is more involved than simply doing impressive works in the name of the Lord. Above all, it is crucial that one be called of God to be an apostle.

* Apostles are called by God. One cannot just decide on his own to have such a ministry. God sets the members in the body just as He desires (1Cor. 12:18). Notice how Jesus chose the twelve.

And He went up on the mountain and called to Him those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him. Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons. (Mk. 3:13 - 15)

The first priority of the apostle should be to spend time with the Lord. The message he carries will be formed in this place of intimate relationship with Christ. How can one be sent representing another if he does not take the time to wait and hear what is on His heart? Thus, apostles are preeminently men of relationship. Their time with Him takes precedence over everything else.

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. (Acts 4:13)

The lack of consistent intimate time with the Lord is probably the primary reason why many men propagate principles at the expense of imparting life. This is not to imply that teaching biblical principles is wrong; we do this whenever we minister His word. However, when we know what is on His heart for the moment, we can rise up to speak in His Name with the full power and anointing of His presence. There simply is no valid substitute for hearing from the Lord.

Since the very message we are called to convey is a Person, we must take time to behold and consider His glory, His beauty, His grief, His love, His righteous indignation, His purpose. The foundation to be laid is a Person! The Spirit we have received ...searches all things, even the depths of God.(1Cor. 2:10 NASB)

Theology is not about the study of the things of God; it is the study of God Himself! This requires as much (if not more) time on one’s knees as it does in books. Plumbing the depths of His heart is the necessary prerequisite to the miraculous event of communicating Him to His people. Any ministry of power to others will then come as a reflection of this priority. Many have done miracles in Jesus’ name. This does not mean they were apostles. In fact, it may not even mean they extended God’s kingdom.

Many will say to Me in that day, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?” And then I will declare to them, “I never knew (Grk. GINOSKO - this word implies a relationship) you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!”(Mt. 7:22, 23)

Intimate communion and relationship with the Lord was the missing ingredient in the ministries of these individuals. They moved in the gifts God gave them, but they did not walk in the close fellowship with Christ that true Kingdom ministry requires. Thus, they worked lawlessness. In other words, they did what seemed best to them - and did it in His name. God has not called us to do “what seems best to us.” He has called us to obey Him. The fact that God moved in power through spiritual gifts operative in their lives did not indicate His approval of their motives, methods or character. This is why Jesus instructed us to evaluate ministries by their spiritual fruit and not by their words or spiritual gifts (Mt. 7:15 - 23). Thus, signs and wonders by themselves cannot be the distinguishing feature of apostles.

[Jim]

* However, it is also clear that apostles are to be men of power. Jesus sent out the twelve to preach, cast out demons and heal the sick (Mk. 3:13 - 15). It seemed that wherever the apostles of the New Testament ministered, the power of God was consistently manifested. The Kingdom we have been called to extend cannot be brought to bear on society through words alone. We must have the power of God permeating our words, our prayers and our songs.

For the kingdom of God does not consist in words, but in power. (1Cor. 4:20 NASB)

Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. (Acts 2:43)

Truly the signs of an apostle were accomplished among you with all perseverance, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds. (2Cor. 12:12)

* Apostles are bondservants (2Cor. 4:5). They do not see themselves as more significant than others; they consider others more important than themselves(Phil. 2:3). They do not seek to be served, but to serve others that they might come forth in all God has ordained for them.

...And I will not be burdensome to you; for I do not seek yours, but you. For the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls...(2Cor. 12:14, 15)

In our day, a father might work and save over many years so his child could attend college. So also Paul saw his calling to pour himself out that the Corinthian believers could come into all that God desired for them.

Some leaders believe that the people are to serve them and fulfill their vision for the local church. Any other vision than the one in the leader’s heart would only produce a “di - vision.” In other words, division comes from failure to support the goals in the heart of the leader(s). My question is, What if the vision in God’s heart for that fellowship is greater than what is seen by the leader(s)? (By the way, it always is.) Overseers are not to be threatened by the emerging of Christ’s perspective through other members of the body.

On the other hand, neither must there be any rebellion in the hearts of God’s people because leadership has only a limited view of the Lord’s purpose or a different view than they have. Both pride and rebellion are addressed when true apostolic men lay a foundation of servanthood. All believers will be challenged to not only serve each other but to hear from one another. Elders especially will be envisioned to set the example of servanthood! They will lead the way. Such an approach to leadership will result from the influence of the apostle’s bondservant heart.

By definition, a bondservant is simply a slave (Grk. DOULOS). He does not belong to himself any longer; he is the property of another. His whole life is given to the purpose of seeing his Owner’s vision (not his own) come to pass. He is aware that his Owner may speak through anyone He chooses (even a donkey if necessary!). When that occurs, obedience is always the proper response. A bondservant will not seek to perpetuate his own aspirations and desires. As James Garrett has written,

...no one fully understands lordship nor fully experiences lordship, without grasping the principle of the “DOULOS”. (1) There always will be pressure on us to do other than and more than what God has called us to do. (2)

He goes on to say:

There are two words in the Greek New Testament that make us aware of two different “wills” of God. The first is the word BOULEE. This word and its derivatives tend to be used for God’s irresistible will - His plan or purpose. This is going to be accomplished and nothing can prevent it.

The second word is THELEMA. This word tends to be used in the sense of “wish,” or “desire.” God does not always get His wish or desire. For instance, it is not God’s wish that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (1Tim. 2:4, 2Pet. 3:9). (3)

However, it is obvious that many will not repent and so will perish.

As those who want to please the Lord and do His will, not only do we bow our knees to His sovereign purpose, but we long to bring joy to His heart as we embrace His wishes.

* Apostles are placed in the church first and exhibited as last.

And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers... (1Cor. 12:28)

For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. (1Cor. 4:9)

How can it be that the one ministry God sets first in the Church would be displayed as last? Yet this expresses the way of the Lord. Did He not say that the first would be last? When He began construction of His eternal dwelling, He started with twelve men whom He named as apostles. When He commenced to reach out to the Gentile world, He sent an apostle to the house of Cornelius. When He began to establish churches among the Gentiles around the Roman Empire, He sent the apostles Paul and Barnabas. Soon prophets and teachers were also appearing on the scene with increasing frequency. How is it then that the one ministry Jesus set first in His Church would end up being viewed as last?

Apostles are mindful that God's value system differs significantly from man’s. In order for His house to reflect His personality and values, it must be built with a strict adherence to His tastes and desires. However, leaders who are constrained by the opinions of others will ultimately fail to build God’s house according to His plans. What others think of them will affect their response to the Lord. Clearly, the values and methods of man have long contaminated the house God is constructing. It simply does not reflect heaven as it should. However, God intends to reveal the glory of His value system on the earth.

How does one work with the Lord to this end? Probably the greatest hindrances are insecurity and the fear of man in the hearts of Christian leaders. The tendency is to see the cost of obedience and then pull back. When men give themselves unreservedly to the Lord and His ways (as bondservants), they will suffer persecution (2Tim. 3:12). Sadly, this often comes from religious people who think they are rendering service to God. The primary reason they bring opposition is because their values and tastes are threatened by the structural changes sought by those with insight into God’s heart. Thus, apostles by the very nature of their call will be seen as insignificant and irrelevant by many (those who are comfortably entrenched in their own perspectives of divine order). In such an atmosphere, apostles will say with Paul:

We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! Even to the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure it; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now. (1Cor. 4:10 - 13)


Lord, we present our lives to You afresh, even right now. We want to be Your bondservants. Send us anywhere to serve in any capacity or to speak any word that is in Your heart for us to express. Lord, teach us Your ways that we may learn what is valuable to You. Cause us to become an accurate reflection on the earth of Your value system. We desire for men to look at us and not be misled concerning Your priorities. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

[Jim]

Sweeping Away the Dust


Laying the Foundation


The Lord takes longer to build His house than His people often feel comfortable with. He plans to live in it forever. Therefore, He builds according to His own specifications.

God’s “specs” have to do with the hearts of His people. Bringing heart attitudes and motives into line with His holy character always takes longer than assembling and tuning a “well oiled machine.” Those who are more concerned with quick results than with seeing that the holiness of God emerges in His people will take shortcuts and, in the end, will wind up with something other than what God intended. Remember, the goal is to reveal Christ. Apostles will endeavor to reveal Him as the foundation and builder of God's house.

...having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone... (Eph. 2:20)

...as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation....For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.(1Cor. 3:10, 11)

This verse makes it clear that the foundation stone has already been laid. It was being set in place way back in the days of Isaiah.

Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, a costly cornerstone for the foundation. (Is. 28:16 NASB)

Old Testament history reflects the activity of God in clearing away the ground and setting the stage that He may lay His perfect cornerstone into place. The question we face is, How do we lay a foundation that has already been set in place by God?

Again, the issue is not so much that we work for God as it is to cooperate with Him in His activity. We must recognize Christ in His proper God-given place in the midst of His people. God has designed His Church to be built upon His Son. But a major problem in the Church is the “dust” that religion has piled up concealing the Rock beneath. We must sweep aside everything that obscures Him! Many things, such as fear, insecurity, religious tradition, selfish ambition, jealousy, competitiveness and confidence in our own abilities will hinder the unveiling of Jesus Christ as Lord in the Church.


Removing Strongholds: False Teachers


There are many strongholds in the Church that have been constructed in the minds of God’s people. These inhibit the revelation of the Lord in our midst. One of the functions of apostolic men is to help us recognize and remove these hindrances.

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. (2Cor. 10:3 - 5)

False teachers had come to the Corinthians and undermined Paul’s authority. The strongholds that had been constructed in the minds of the believers through heretical teaching had not only produced doubt in them concerning Paul (2Cor. 10:10, 11), but they had obscured God in their midst. These strongholds (fortresses) were lofty things or high places (Grk. HUPSOMA - “height” cf. Rom. 8:39) that were raised up against the revelation of God among His people. This is one of Satan¹s primary objectives - to prevent God from receiving His proper recognition first in the Church and then also in the world. However, there is emerging a clear trumpet sound that Christ must come to have first place in everything - especially His own Church (Col. 1:18). He must break forth in our midst!

The restoration of the Church is not simply a restoration of certain truths and ministries to God’s people. It is the restoration of God’s Son to His rightful place in our midst. Divine order is reflected when a people on the earth give to the Son the same place of honor and authority that the Father has given Him in the heavens. Paul set out to recapture the thoughts of the people and bring them into obedience to Christ. Apostolic declaration of God’s word has the effect of exposing whatever is exalted among God’s people and thereby obscuring the Lord.


Strongholds and Insecurity


Where do these high places come from in our midst? Have we constructed some of them ourselves? Rather than blame false teachers (obviously that can be one source), let us repent for the ones we have erected. Many of us have gone through traumatic experiences (child abuse, rejection, parental neglect, etc.) that have produced insecurity in us. As a result, we have built strongholds of defensiveness, judgmental attitudes, anger and self-centeredness as places of security. We must recognize that Jesus Himself can be our only stronghold. He is our port of refuge (Ps. 62:8; 91:9)! We must run into Him, abide in Him - and there find safety.

The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. (Prov. 18:10)

Whenever we construct anything in which to find security, we are establishing a false stronghold, an alternative to God. This is where idolatry comes from. Idolatry in the Church has its roots both in our pride, as well as in our doubt that He will be to us all that He has promised.

For example, greed is idolatry (Col. 3:5). When we do not trust God to be our sufficiency, we turn from Him and in our pride gather an abundance of material goods to make us feel secure concerning our future. Physical wealth can never bring the inner assurance that only the Lord can give.

Not only have many individual Christians sought safety in material wealth, many churches have done so as well. It is expressed something like this: “We must have a nice building in which to meet if we would be a successful church in this city.”Nice buildings to meet in can be a blessing. Clearly though, the thought pattern that a local church must have a building in order to impact its city is a stronghold that God wants to tear down.

The problem lies in our insecurity concerning what God has said about our identity. He identifies us as His people. However, many in our society (including some Christians) think of the church as a physical building. Church is a place you go to. If one “goes to church,” then it is important that “the church” reflect our heavenly priorities. In other words, we must put much time, effort and money into building something that “brings glory to God.” However, the Scriptures teach that God does not dwell in buildings made with hands. He is glorified when we submit to His Spirit as He works His nature and character into our lives. The result of misdirected priorities concerning buildings is that more and more attention is given to these natural edifices than to Him who is the Builder of His eternal dwelling.

[Jim]

The Organization


Another stronghold (or high place) in our midst is the need some believers have for titles and organized structure. Again, whatever we construct to give us a sense of identity and safety is an alternative to Christ who is to be our only refuge.

Our tendency is to seek distinctiveness and usefulness by fitting into the defined positions of an organization. However, our true identity is found only as we abide in the presence of the One who created us. He has a unique place of service where He wants to meet with each of us. His purpose is to carve out from heaven a particular niche in His house for every one of His children and then woo us individually to Himself in that special place - so that where He is, there we may be also (Jn. 14:1-3). The key to finding our individual sphere in God’s house is simply that we pursue Him!

Too often, His efforts to build His house in this manner are hindered by our attempts to “bring order.” The false sense of security that comes from our endeavors to bring definition to a struggling group of believers is a stronghold that hinders the unveiling of the One who alone brings true peace and corporate formation. The Holy Spirit must be released in our midst to build His house; He must be free to set the course toward divine structure.

This is not to say that the local church is to be an aimless chaotic gathering. While a brand new group probably will appear somewhat haphazard, the divine pattern will emerge over time as God’s people submit to His leading within them to serve. Local leadership will oversee this process. Apostolic and prophetic input can be a tremendous help during this time as well.

Apostles will not only seek to understand what the Lord is doing, but be sensitive to how the Holy Spirit wants them to guide, admonish, fine-tune, etc. It is precisely during this time of corporate structuring that the tendency to organize by human ability will be strongest. It must be resisted. Remember, we are to recognize what Jesus is bringing forth, rather than simply organizing what most quickly “gets the job done.” What the Lord establishes through His life will then reflect His headship instead of the organizational and administrative skills of men. We flirt dangerously with idolatry when we do not understand these things (Gen. 11:4).

The Church is to express the character and nature of God. Just as Jesus represented the Father, so we are to represent Him. This is the essence of being an apostolic people. The alternative is idolatry.

Scripture forbids us to make any graven image in the likeness of God. Since He is infinite, how could finite man ever create anything that could adequately explain Him? It would always fall short of His glory and misrepresent Him. Yet this is precisely what we do when we attempt to corporately build through our own strength a work in His Name. Then, when we say, “This is what God is like,” we guarantee His judgment upon our endeavors. The end result is often an organization with members who are more devoted to and identified with it than with Christ.


Beholding His Glory


The greatest “instrument” God has given to bring us corporately into the image of Christ is Himself. His promise to us is that as we behold Him, we will be changed.

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. (2Cor. 3:18)

I always interpreted this verse as a promise to individuals. While this is certainly valid, it was not Paul’s primary thought. The Corinthian church was in need of major adjustment. While they had obeyed the apostle’s first letter to put out of the church the unrepentant immoral man (1Cor. 5:1 - 5), they had not properly recognized his response of sorrow and repentance. To minister to them, Paul began to contrast the Old Covenant of death, condemnation and impermanence with the New Covenant of eternal glory and righteousness (2Cor. 3:1 - 11).

When he looked at the Corinthian church, he could not see the abiding glory of God resting upon them as he desired. Yet he spoke with great boldness and hope concerning what God had promised (2Cor. 3:12). There would come forth a people ministering the Spirit and glory of God on the earth. One thing he refused to do was to be as Moses, who put something over his face to disguise the fact that the glory was fading.

...unlike Moses, who used to throw a veil over his face to hide from the gaze of the children of Israel the passing away of what was but transitory. (2Cor. 3:13 Weymouth)

Today, churches have often put on external
“veils” to convey to the world and other believers that the glory is in their midst when in fact it has faded. However, theological degrees, beautiful buildings, clerical robes and talented musicians are no substitute for the glory of God. How much better it is to face up to the reality of emptiness than to communicate falsehood. The bottom line is that we either have His glory permeating our gatherings or we have artificial alternatives that mask our barrenness. These may seem impressive to men but they have no power to change lives.

To this day, the same veil that was upon Moses lies over the corporate heart of the nation of Israel (2Cor. 3:14, 15). That “veil” communicates to the Jewish people that the glory can still be found in the law of Moses. However, God is moving today and revealing His Son among them and...when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. (2Cor. 3:16)

The result is both liberty in the Spirit and a taste of the glory of God that is found in the face of Jesus Christ (2Cor. 3:17, 18; 4:6). Paul goes on to say that this was the hope for the Corinthian church. As they would all come (both Jew and Gentile) into the presence of God and behold His glory, they would experience corporate transformation.

Today, God’s glory is the only hope we have for the churches we serve. Too many believers think of Church restoration in terms of simply having gifts of the Spirit, effective evangelistic programs, and some measured function of the five-fold ministries (apostles, prophets, etc.). However, a restored Church will only emerge when all “veils” have been removed. We must stop portraying to others a false picture of an abiding glory when we have substituted many things in its place. We must repent for supplanting the power of God with the strength of man. We must see our total inability to build God’s house in our own power and face up to our barrenness. Then as we turn to Him with an unveiled face we will behold and be transformed into the image of the One we are viewing. God will not be satisfied with anything less than the image of His Son in us. Jesus is our goal.


Lord, sweep away in my own personal life any stronghold that I have constructed as a part of my personality for a place of security and refuge. I know that it will only hinder the revelation of You in my life. Bring forth a purity of expression of Your Spirit in me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

[Jim]

Losing
Control


Breaking Out of Our Comfort Zone


What does it mean for Jesus Christ to be the foundation of a local church? Simply this: everything must depend on Him! Our human insecurity causes us to build in such a way that, just in case He doesn’t “come through,” the work can still go on. Knowing how to have good meetings, whether or not God moves in our midst, is a sign of human religion. How foolish we are to continue in such activity.

We know we should be totally dependent on the Lord; yet something within us pulls us away from this. We somehow entertain the idea that our efforts will guarantee the success of His kingdom. The truth is that He alone is the guarantee that His efforts will succeed. Our hope must be in Him (1Tim. 1:1).

Christianity is to be a miraculous experience of God’s life. If His manifest presence were to be suddenly withdrawn from a local church, all “business as usual” activity should stop while the people seek for a fresh outpouring of His Spirit. Nevertheless, instead of building this way, many leaders endeavor to “keep the ball rolling.” Human effort actually increases! As a result, the tendency is then to try to control meetings, the focus of what is ministered, where people should relate, etc. It is true that oversight does involve watching over the flock of God, keeping error out, and warning younger sheep about situations where they could stumble. Clearly though, godly oversight is not control.

Human nature tends to wield too much control over what goes on in Christian gatherings. Our corporate times together in the river of God are spent with the water up to our ankles, knees, or waist (Ezek. 47). It feels so good to “touch bottom,” enjoy the water of life and only go as far as is comfortable. However, the river cannot take us anywhere until we totally trust Him and launch out to where it is impossible to stand.

When we abandon ourselves to Him, the whole work rests solely on Him - and we lose control! At this point, meetings will begin to go in directions that the eldership did not plan beforehand. God does not always “read the bulletin” prior to the gathering to make sure He is in order. Our attempts to keep Him within our “comfort zone” not only reflect our pride, they will consistently be inadequate. He is always breaking out of man-made constraints to express Himself more fully.

Jesus did not fit in the comfort zone of the Pharisees. He was just too different from what they were expecting from their Messiah. They were more comfortable with their interpretation of what Messiah ought to look like than with the reality of God Himself in their midst. When He walked out of the temple declaring it to be desolate of God’s glory, many did not understand the importance of what was occurring. Similarly, many Christian groups have experienced a diminishing of God’s manifest presence in their midst and have not understood either the significance or the reasons why.


Who’s Preserving Whom?


As with many Jewish leaders of the first century, it is a tendency of some builders in our day to reject the Cornerstone.

The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. (1Pet. 2:7)

It is not that they reject Him as their Savior, but as the One on whom their whole ministry rests. In other words, they often get more enamored with results than with the process. “What works” can become more important than endeavoring to walk in harmony with God’s Spirit.

However, if God is building for His own eternal habitation, then the way in which His house is constructed is of paramount importance to Him. We must allow Him full access to the gatherings - so that He may bring His perspective of what the interior of His home ought to look like. Often though, it is easier to opt for “order” and a measure of God’s glory than to let go and allow God’s people to respond spontaneously to Him.

His life will produce what some might view as disorder - but which is, in reality, the beginnings of a corporate move into new dimensions of God’s order. We cannot structure the house of God! He alone is able to do that. He knows the unique place where each of us belongs. He knows the dormant grace that is in the hearts of those who have not been able to emerge in ministry because the structure of their local church afforded no opportunity.

Of course, this is not to say that we are not to recognize and suggest certain practical tasks that need to be prayerfully accomplished for the benefit of the local church. However, it must be the Holy Spirit who confirms in people’s hearts where they are to serve.

Some may say, “If I don¹t maintain control, the work will fall apart!” But it is better to have God shake the work today and find out what will not stand than to wait for His return and find out too late that what was built has fallen.

Many feel that they preserve the life of God by what they have built. They look at their leadership, their home groups, their prophetic musicians, etc., and think, “Hallelujah, God’s life is flourishing in our city.” In reality though, what we build does not preserve His life; rather, it is His life that preserves us (Rom. 11:18; Jn. 15:4, 5). Where do we place our trust? Is it in our structure, our teachers, pastors, apostles, home group leaders and musicians? Or, is it in Him who is the life of His people?

Our human tendency is to get things turned around. While we desire to see His house built in our midst, we too easily fail to believe He will build it. So we put our hands on the work of the Lord and bring our strength to bear in “maintaining order.” Jesus gave us clear warning concerning man’s inflexible attempts to contain His Spirit. He said His new wine would destroy old wineskins. In trying to hold on to what we have, we guarantee that we shall lose it! On the other hand, inflexible corporate structures of themselves are not the primary problem; they are merely symptoms of old wineskins. First and foremost, God is after our hearts.

There is much prayer for revival today, yet many of us will be shaken when it comes. Many leaders will either endeavor to squelch it because it will upset their “normal” way of functioning and leave them without control, or they will try to grab hold of what God is doing and redirect it in a way more agreeable to their own concepts of church order. We must let go of the reins to have the freedom which God requires to restore His many-membered body. What the Lord seeks to do in the Church is to reveal new dimensions of His glory that will both surprise us and amaze the world!


Jesus Christ, the Sufficient Foundation


It would be foolish for anyone to believe he fully understands what God is raising up. Our insight is limited, for....we see in a mirror, dimly.... (1Cor. 13:12).

This raises an obvious question. How do we build in anticipation of a God who refuses to do things our way? Very simply: we must build on a foundation that anticipates all that is to be built on it.

If one plans to build a small doghouse, he doesn’t need a very large base; if he intends to erect a magnificent mansion, then a sufficient foundation must be set in place. The house that God is presently building is beyond what the whole Body of Christ (including its apostles and prophets) can conceive! How then are we to proceed?

If we simply minister our interpretation of who Christ is to people (dispensing information), then what is built will be limited by the limited definition we bring to the foundation. On the other hand, if we impart Christ Himself through our lives and teaching, God’s people will seek to increasingly know and respond to Him. Then, as all of us come more into harmony with Him, He will bring definition to the corporate structure of God’s house.


Administering the Mystery


Paul understood God’s strategy and gave himself to proclaiming the unfathomable riches of Christ (Eph. 3:8). He preached and disseminated wealth that he discovered by revelation hidden in the Son. People were then drawn to the Lord Jesus to begin plumbing the depths of His person.

The treasures in Him were and are beyond human capacity to grasp. Something that is unfathomable is so deep that it is impossible either to understand with a finite mind or to communicate with a finite language. Yet this was the task before Paul - and it lies before us as well. Preaching the gospel is not hard; it is impossible! Apart from the anointing and grace of God, we will only give information. Even if that information is biblically accurate, it will not bring the power of God to bear on the hearers. What we then build corporately will reflect the limitation of our human understanding. However, God wants the Church to reveal His Son! Therefore God raised up Paul to

...bring to light what is the administration of the mystery, which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things. (Eph. 3:9 NASB)

God does not want the mystery of His Son hidden from the eyes of the world forever. He has a plan to administer it on the earth. Is it that He will raise up a few mighty prophets who will reveal the great mysteries of God’s Son? Or perhaps some powerful intercessors will gain the insight we need. Or maybe a housewife? What do the scriptures say?

...to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places. (Eph. 3:10)

[Jim]

God intends to reveal His multi-faceted wisdom to both the seen and unseen realms through His people! This precious treasure will only be disclosed as the whole Church is released to bring whatever facet of insight each member is carrying within. Jesus must be released to speak in our midst through whomever He desires. This is “according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Eph. 3:11).

Of course, this does not negate the need for loving oversight of the gatherings. God wants those who are spiritually mature to train His people to become increasingly accurate in hearing and obeying Him.

When fellowships are formed and controlled by our hands we can only expect shakings; when they are fashioned by His life, we can expect glory and the revelation of God’s manifold wisdom. Because He does love us, He will shake everything we have built that can be shaken so that we have the opportunity to repent and build correctly.

From Scripture we see how apostolic ministries of the early church were concerned with building properly. The apostolic burden today is to be the same - that God's house be constructed correctly. Even though much has been erected in the name of Jesus, it all falls short of God’s ultimate intent. Mixture abounds. The Lord is going to root this mixture out of His Church. It may be difficult to let go of what we have grown accustomed to. However, if we desire His glory, we will make the necessary adjustments.


Lord, first root the mixture out of my heart and then out of that which I do in Your name. Cause there to be a purity of Your life springing forth in me and in the fellowship of believers of which I am a part. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

[Jim]

Apostles, Elders And the Local Church


Who is the Greatest?


Too often, the pastors, teachers and leaders of worship all stand out in our assemblies while Jesus is not always so evident. It is easy for the saints to focus on ministries rather than the Lord when our meetings are “professionally run.” God is dealing with us to give His Son the preeminence in all that we do. How few speak in this manner:

...neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. (1Cor. 3:7)

All too frequently, men imply how much they are needed, not how insignificant they are. It is so easy to create an impression in others of how indispensable we are even as we minister in His name. This weakness in our humanity speaks loudly of insecurity and pride.

For when one says, “I am of Paul,” and another, “I am of Apollos,” are you not mere men? What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one. (1Cor. 3:4, 5 NASB)

If the Lord had not given opportunity, none of these men (or any of us) would have been saved. The Church is the result of God giving men the opportunity to believe the gospel. And the gospel is preached because God gives men the opportunity to share what He has done in their lives. The Church is the result of a divine “set-up”; we are in Christ by His design. If God had not created the situations where truth was proclaimed and received, there would be no churches. This perspective of God is key to ministering wisely in His house. Without it, we are prone to elevate men in an ungodly way.

I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. (1Cor. 3:6)

Notice Paul’s emphasis on God’s operative grace among His people. Men can plant and water, but without the miracle of life within the seed, there would be no growth. If one plants rocks in the soil, what can one hope to harvest? The best programs to evangelize and train men in the Church are useless apart from His life. The maturation process is miraculous, both individually and corporately. The life of God can never be reduced to a method. While principles may apply in training others, in the end God will be glorified for what He has done in their lives.

Some point to “church planting” as the most important element of church growth. “There would not even be a local church here if it were not for that man’s ministry,” they say. “Why, he broke the ground! He rooted out the weeds and planted seed when there was no local church at all. Obviously he is the most important one. He is ‘the father’ of the work.”

Others point to the one who waters. “If he had not come along when he did, the church would have withered long ago. When he brought the water of life, there was a great blossoming! Fruitfulness and fragrance abounded after his input. Obviously, he is the most important.”

What do the Scriptures say?

So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. (1Cor. 3:7)

If we read this in a slightly different way without changing the meaning, it could say, “both he who plants and he who waters are nothing.”

We have allowed man to occupy too important a place in our thinking. As a result, the preeminence of Jesus has been undermined. Two significant problems we face in the Church today are both the insecurity of prominent men and the prominence of insecure men.


Apostles and Elders


The apostolic foundation of local churches facilitates the headship of Christ, because it involves a collegial group of elders who oversee the work.

So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed. (Acts 14:23)

Notice, Paul did not remain and function as an “arch-elder”; he commended them to the Lord. Jesus is the head of each local church. Apostles do not hold a hierarchical position of authority over the churches as a mediator between them and God. Their desire is to see local churches founded on Jesus Christ and overseen by a group of elders. Then they can move into new territory in order to see new fellowships of believers established. If they decide to settle down for a season in a local church, they must become a functioning accountable member of the eldership there. The only place in Scripture where we see apostles recognized as a distinct group among the elders is the church at Jerusalem.

So the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter. (Acts 15:6)

Of course, Jerusalem was a unique church. This was the only place on earth where you had the twelve apostles of the Lamb as part of the leadership! It is probable that the presence of such well known men brought its own unique problems. I am sure the tendency to elevate them in an inordinate way was quite strong. Consider the following quote.

One result of fearing man is to develop an unhealthy elevation of leaders. The teachers of mixture who came among the Galatians probably had this attitude toward the apostles in Jerusalem. In his letter, Paul takes time to underscore the humanity of those apostles. Why did he do this? Obviously, he was endeavoring to undo something that had been imparted to the Galatians. Paul was not maliciously exposing sin but underscoring their humanity as he “brought them down a few notches” in the eyes of the Galatians.

But from those who were of high reputation (what they were makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality) - well, those who were of reputation contributed nothing to me. (Gal. 2:6 NASB)

The men of reputation here included Peter, James and John (Gal. 2:7-9).

Paul also recounts an incident where Peter stumbled much like the Galatians were now doing (Gal. 2:11 - 14).

When men are elevated in an unhealthy way, God will see to it that they are brought down a few notches in our eyes. This is a fearful thing. However, it is a safeguard both for the church and for those in leadership.


True apostles in our day will not see themselves as greater than others; they will consider others more important than themselves (Phil. 2:3; Rom. 12:10).

[Jim]

Honoring Jesus as the Head


When a group of men stand together as elders under the headship of Jesus, the inherent diversity in leadership provides for a more complete servanthood oversight. The elders have the protection of peer-level relationships; good shepherding care can be more consistent and effective when there is a team of men sharing responsibility.

The apostolic man who laid the foundation for the local church must not interfere with the headship of Jesus by functioning as a “second head” to the work. There is only one head of any expression of Christ’s body: Jesus.

Some have said that the gifts of the Holy Spirit operative in the Church are to express the body of Christ, while the leaders (the five-fold ministry, the apostles, etc.) are to reveal the headship of Christ. Such thinking is dangerous. Instead of leaders seeing themselves as simply part of Christ's body with distinct giftings and responsibilities, they begin to see themselves as uniquely joined to the Head. The basis for clergy - laity distinction is established.

The truth is, leaders are part of the Body of Christ like everybody else. Their role is to oversee the people as each individual member hears His voice. Of course it is clear that God will speak through the elders to the church. But it is also true that He will speak through the church to them. We must honor the ministry of the Holy Spirit in our midst. God has sent Him to reveal the headship of Christ among His people.

When the Lord speaks, even if it is through the youngest member of the fellowship, all must submit to Him. We do not simply submit to a man who holds a certain “position” in our midst (even if he is an apostle). However, when the Lord anoints him to address us - which will occur frequently because of the nature of his calling - then the headship of Christ is being revealed. When there is a proper understanding of the Holy Spirit's central role in revealing Jesus to His people, a spirit of control has no ground from which to operate in our midst. Elders will then move in an authority that reflects servanthood.

After laying the foundation at Corinth, Paul did not commend the church there to the “ministry team of elders” as those representing the Head; he entrusted them to Christ.

Some have said that the overseers of the local church are the head of that group as a husband is head of his wife. Thus, as the wife is to submit to her husband, so the church is to submit to the local eldership. However, for any overseer(s) to take such a position is to usurp the place that belongs only to the Lord Jesus, the One who gave His life for His bride.

Scripture teaches that the husband - wife relationship reveals the union between Christ and His Church, not the relationship between the elders and the church. The elders are part of that church and must be as submissive to the headship of Christ as any other member of the body.

For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. (2Cor. 11:2)

In light of this, it is also important to remember that God’s will is for the flock to give proper honor and recognition to those who walk before them as examples.

And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. (1Thess. 5:12, 13)

Obey (lit. “be persuaded by”) your leaders, and submit to them; for they keep watch over your souls, as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.(Heb. 13:17 NASB)

God requires elders in His Church to be faithful men. They are called to stand before His people as examples of holiness, faithfulness and commitment to Christ. When believers slack off in their passion for the Lord, those in oversight will be stirred to intercede for them. They will speak out of their own times of intimacy with the Lord as they seek to inspire the saints toward greater love and obedience to Him. When they see and hear believers in their care misrepresenting Christ, they will seek Him concerning whether or not to admonish them and, if so, how to go about it.

In all such ministry, they must accurately represent God’s heart and not their own frustration, impatience or anger. Ultimately, God will hold them responsible as those who must give account. Their accountability primarily will have to do with how obediently they responded to the grace of God in their lives to express His heart to His people. Believers should honor those called to this task and make it easy for them to come with instruction and admonition from the Lord. Such a heart in the people makes an elder¹s task a joyful and not a grievous one.

On the other hand, if an elder is not open to a corrective word from even the youngest saint in the gathering, how is he an example for the very type of behavior he expects from the people? All of us must be open to the Lord’s word no matter who it comes through. However, elders will have grace in their lives to care for the flock from a perspective of oversight. In other words, they will carry something of God¹s heart for the whole group and not for just a few of the members.

The overseers of the church in every locality should consist of a collegial band of men called as elders from that area. These men cannot be independent; they must see their need for one another, come together in friendship, and commit themselves to serve in oversight of God's house under His presiding Shepherd (senior Pastor), the Lord Jesus Christ.

...and when the Chief Shepherd (Grk. ARCHIPOIMEN) appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. (1Pet. 5:4)

If apostolic men retain an “official governmental” status to the churches they father, they will undermine the collegial overseers of the assemblies. Local elders in a fellowship should seek to stand together with the leader(s) of other local churches in the area, thus forming the body of men responsible for God’s house there. An apostolic man who has fathered a local church will always have a special relationship with the believers. But the authority he has in their midst will not be official in nature; rather, it will reflect family relationship. His words will carry weight because of his proven love for those saints. They will know he has not gathered them unto himself to become part of his group of churches; he has built them upon Christ.

Apostolic men from different geographic locations who relate to various fellowships in a particular area should encourage and promote unity between those local churches. When apostolic men do not do this, there will be a continuation of the same divisions that existed before they first arrived. How then have they contributed to building the house of God?

Men who build something other than God’s house (a sect, a movement, a "stream") are not functioning as master builders. A master builder is concerned with God’s one house, and he knows that the correct pattern to build by will only be fully revealed in each locale as each member is built upon Jesus Christ as the foundation. He will completely give himself to the task of keeping the Lord Jesus central both in his own ministry and in the churches he serves. Finally, he will ensure that nothing in his own heart or building methods undermines God’s work of uniting His people in the Spirit.


Lord, move in our day to cause all the “stream” and movements of Your people to begin to see beyond the river banks of our particular brand of Christianity. Center us in Your Son, gather us into Your presence and reveal Your glory both in and through us for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

[Faithchild]

Jim, are you really interested in this stuff? Or do you just enjoying flashing your picture 11 times in a row? Ha! Hey, I didn't know you lived in the rich man's town of Foley, AL! I placed you with Dave Huston & The Glorious Church Crew up north! My graphic designer/book packager lives in Theodore, AL (Genesis Communications / Brian Banashak) across the bay from you!

[Jim]

Faithchild,

If you strain your memory, you may remember that I met you for the first time at a meeting in Fairhope, Alabama (1996?). I spend as much time as possible in Carlisle, but I am still based here on the Gulf coast.

I will defer to your wisdom to discern my motive for the posts in this thread.

Any comments on the content of Don Rumble's response to the post I sent him or his other writing above?

God bless,

Jim

www.GloriousChurch.com

[Faithchild]

Jim, my "wisdom" only remembers that the pastor would never have me back and we went out to Pizza Hut! (Maybe I should waddle over to the food thread!) I think I remember giving away Bro. Tingle's newspaper.

[Jim]

Faithchild,

I now know the key to jogging your memory; tap into the eating experience that is the anchor for the related experiences.

Pizza Hut sounds right. You did come for a second meeting which was a few months after I met you.

God bless,

Jim

www.GloriousChurch.com

[bishop1]

Brother Jim;

How did you manage to put all of your posts on while I was trying to answer the first post?
I Like That Idea.
I have just finished writing a book.
Can You Show Me How To Post It On This Site Like You Just Did ?

[committed]

Bro. Jim,
My son-in-law is assist. pastor in Grand Bay, Al......I love Alabama, and Foley is a nice town. My husband worked for 2 1/2 months at the Rohr/Goodrich plant in Fairhope in 1996. I love the spirit of the saints of God in the Mobile area.....way more friendly than here in California!

[Jim]

committed,

The people in this area are very friendly and community relationships and ties are much stronger here than I have experienced in California (I lived in San Francisco for 26 years).

I know some of the saints in Grand Bay and will likely be visiting a home church meeting there soon. I probably will meet your son-in-law when I visit the group as I understand he is leading the home group ministry.

I am driving 130 miles each way for fellowship in Wiggins, Mississippi home church meetings as this has been the closest apostolic home churches I have found in our area. I was excited to learn that the assembly in Grand Bay is moving into home churches.

For the last two years I have been working with a friend on the west side of Mobile in supporting and preparing him to plant a home church assembly. He has begun the first meetings and they are going very well.

God bless,

Jim

www.GloriousChurch.com