Lesson 27: The Government of the Church
1. The New Testament is not very specific regarding church government, because it was written while most of the Apostles were still alive. While they were alive, the Prophets and the Apostles were able to govern the church.
2. Order in the church is necessary. The Epistles discuss church order and government.
3. After the period of the Apostles and the Prophets, the church began to do things and add things which cannot be found in the Scriptures; creating traditions that were often contrary to Scripture.
4. When the Roman Empire became Christian, the Christian Church borrowed many of it’s ideas from their system of government.
5. In the New Testament, Bishop, Elder and Presbyter are interchangeable.
6. Local independent churches are the most scriptural. However, we should still fellowship with other churches who hold the same beliefs. Each local church should be autonomous and independent, but always ready to meet in fellowship with those who are like-minded and of like Spirit.
7. As a member of the body of Christ it is my business, my duty to see to it that the Church visible in no way contradicts the doctrine of the Lord Jesus Himself, of which He has made us custodians and guardians.
Key Thought: Tradition does not equal scripture
Next Lesson: The Sacraments– Signs and Seals