Expert: Rev. Robert Woods - 2/21/2008

Question
QUESTION: I mean no disrespect or for you to be taken aback, because I'm not attacking. I want to know where it is written in the bible that man has the authority to dictate what goes on in the churches. Because, all I can find is Jesus saying that he's been given all authority in heaven and on earth. And if he has 'all' authority then that leaves none for man-kind. Man has decided to do many things in the form of worship and remembering that the gospel contradicts, i.e. (baptizing babies and children, "speaking in tongues" (and other various gifts of the spirit), only taking the Lord's supper when we feel like it. I personally think it's a shame. So, I guess my point is, and I've already stated it is, "If Christ has all authority, then why are their boards of trustees that are so called over the church". The last time I checked in Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus made it quite clear that he was given all authority. Thank you for your time and may God bless you.

ANSWER: Blessings and thank you for your question.

Jesus did say that all authority was given to Him.  However, Scripture does say that their is to be "true" leadership in the church.

Ephesians 4:11 It was he (Christ) who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,
Eph 4:12 to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
Eph 4:13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Eph 4:14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming.
Eph 4:15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Eph 4:16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Scripture also point out that their are 2 lay offices (elders and deacons) of the church.  Scripture does not set aside for finance committees or trustees.  So why do we have them?  Most churches have trustees to fulfill obligations set forth in corporate law or IRS obligations.  

Scripturally, deacons were instructed to take care of $ matters.  

You are right when you say our worship is messed up.  Jesus said that we would worship in Spirit and in Truth.  If you really want to know what the Bible says about worship, then get Joseph Garlinton's book, "Worship: the Pattern of things in Heaven"  ISBN:  978-1560431954

BLessings



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: If I truly want to know what the Bible says about worship, shouldn't I read the Bible? Perhaps part of the problem with the Church today is that we're spending so much time reading people's commentaries on the Bible that we forget to read the Bible itself. And not to pick you apart or anything but Jesus said that "God is Spirit and those who worship him MUST worship in Spirit and in Truth" not would.

I also think I should clarify my question. The Bible shows a clear example for autonomy among congregations. Why then are there committees or trustees over several congregations dictating what is acceptable regarding finances and/or worship? You even stated yourself that "Scripturally, deacons were instructed to take care of $ matters." And lastly, there isn't a single corporate law or IRS obligation that would prevent a congregation from fulfilling the scriptures with the positions of leadership that God set aside for us.

Answer
Blessings and thank you for your followup.

While nothing is better than the Bible, my suggestion for Garlington's book is that I have found no one better who has been able to sum up all that the Bible says about worship, that is heavenly worship.  

Now I am a baptist.  I don't believe that ANYONE outside the local church should have authority over that church.  Remember, Baptists join conventions to cooperate in missions not to have a governing board over them.  So I guess we agree there.

I don't really like committees either, but quite often, committees are formed for specific projects or goals.  While this might not be scriptural, it isn't non scriptural either.

When it comes to the IRS, you obviously haven't been in a church audit.  The IRS comes down on organizations and churches which do not have a clear board of directors (which most churches call trustees).  I also have been part of establishing para-church organizations and I know that in order to establish a 501(3)c, you must have a board of directors.  Jesus said to pay Ceasar, and Paul said to obey authorities as long as laws don't violate God's word.

Now I realize that we may disagee.  But I still would encourage you to read Garlington's book. Keep striving to seek God's will.  May the Lord Bless you Richly as you serve Him.