Expert: Mrs. Priscilla Lyons - 10/7/2011

Question
Hello,

Our church split recently because our Pastor was retiring after nearly 50 years of service and he selected his own replacement and told us that he would be the next pastor because this is what God told him to do.  We tried to go along with his decision because he has proven himself to be truly a man of God and have taught us God's and has been truly a good leader.  However the person he selected does not speak the word of God - he mixes it with worldly things and put on a good show for entertainment but at the end of the sermon it feels just like that (a show).  When some of the member decided this was not right and started to question the Pastor regarding his selection he will not discuss it, he would not meet with the congregation.  It was his way or no way.  Later we found out the the church had no by-laws in place.  We ended up going to court in order to have even a special meeting called so that bylaws could be established and have the right to vote on our next pastor.  Now that it has been voted on and both of them are gone a board of directors was establish and we are in the process of establishing bylaws. What role should the board play as to the chairman of the Deacon board.  Should the board select the next pastor or should it be something that the church do as a whole.  Things have gotten really crazy with a Shepherd for this flock.  Can you give any suggestion as to how the church should be ran when their is not a Shepherd so we can get a clear understanding.  This is a Baptist Church.

Answer
Hello, Vivian.

Often, folks become so comfortable sitting in the pews, that they think that is their place and the pastor should lead them.   A big misconception.  Children grow up in this and naturally fall into the same mistake.  The New Testament is clear that we are responsible for much more than sitting and being fed.
I encourage people to study the Bible and be ready to step in anytime there is a need.  Scripturally, it should be Godly men that do the leading.  
Unsure what state you live, but where I live, there is a Baptist Association that (in a way)
oversees a group of churches in the area.  There is a State Baptist organization that we can consult, if necessary.  And, of course a National Baptist organization..
Have you looked for any of these?
Don't be like I was during a church split that I was involved in..
Being so concerned about the building that I helped build, my parents financed, and all the invested years, etc.....These things were standing between me and God.  I finally just left and began having a better relationship with Him.  The investments I'd made didn't bother me anymore.
So, don't feel badly if you have to find a different place to have fellowship with Christians.
There are churches like my son's that are only a few families & lots of children.  Church is family-not the ritualistic thing that some have made it.
Most of all, read God's Word and understand how He would act in different situations.  Develop the "Mind of Christ".  Imitate Him.  Pray without Ceasing.....
Keep in touch.
Your friend.