Valdosta Church of Christ - ARTICLES

Studying Elder Qualifications and Appointment

Adam Evans — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0600

Appointing Elders (Plural)

in Every City (Titus 1:5), in Every Church (Acts 14:23)

OPTIONAL PROCESS:

Step 1 – Education

Step 2 – Congregation Nomination

Step 3 – Individual Elimination

Step 4 – Reputation Examination

Step 5 – Ordination

Step 1 – Education

QUALIFICATIONS FOR ELDERS (OVERSEERS, SHEPHERDS, BISHOPS, PASTORS)

Introduction:

WHY STUDY THIS TOPIC?

Some churches have a lack of qualified men to serve as elders
Others appoint to the eldership those who are not qualified.
Many deprive themselves of an eldership b/c they have elevated the qualifications for elders to such heights as can never be attained by any human being.

MUST POSSESS ALL QUALIFICATIONS (I Tim 3, Titus 1, I Peter 5)?

Yes, A bishop then must be….

ONLY A FEW QUALIFICATIONS DIFFER FROM THAT OF EVERY CHRISTIAN.
MUST THERE BE A PLURALITY?
1. “The common English version of the New Testament does not contain the term eldership, but the term presbuterion in the original should be so translated. The adjective presbuteros is uniformly translated as elder, therefore presbuterion should be translated eldership”. In I Tim 4:14, “our English version has presbytery, which is the Greek word anglicized, and is the exact equivalent of eldership” (McGarvey, 9)
2. Titus 1:5 (in every city), Acts 14:23 (in every church), Acts 20:17-28 (Church at Ephesus had a plurality of Elders, also called overseers). The same was at Philippi, Phil 1:1.

I. EXPERIENCE IN CHRISTIAN LIFE:

Apt to teach (1 Tim. 3:2; Tit. 1:9).

An apt teacher, capable, able, ready. An aptitude for teaching, capable of instructing others in the word. A man who would teach people must himself keep in advance of them on the subjects on which he would instruct them. Hence, an elder must be a diligent student of the Bible. One cannot communicate that which he does not know.
Best defined by Paul (Titus 1:9-11)
Greek word didaktikos, Thayer defines, “apt and skillful in teaching.”
R.C.H. Lenski comments, “Ability to teach means not merely a fair natural aptitude but the qualification of having been taught”.
“must have demonstrated his ability and skillfulness in teaching in order to qualify” (Duncan, 41)
Congregations can be led astray if the shepherds do not qualify in this category.

Able to convince and exhort the gainsayers (Titus 1:9)

Convince ejlegcw  el-eng’-kho; of uncertain affinity; to confute, admonish: — convict, convince, tell a fault, rebuke, reprove.

Exhort parakalew, — par-ak-al-eh’-o; from (3844) (para) and

(2564) (kalew); to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by

imploration, hortation or consolation): — beseech, call for, (be

of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort (-ation), entreat, pray.

keleuw, — kel-yoo’-o; from a primary kellw (to urge on);

“hail”; to incite by word, i.e. order: — bid, (at, give) command (-

ment).

Gainsayers ajntilegw, — an-til’-eg-o; from (473) (ajnti) and (3004) (legw); to dispute, refuse: — answer again, contradict, deny, gainsay (-er), speak against. (rJew) is properly to break silence

Holds faithful to the word (Titus 1:9)

Not a Novice (spiritually immature or new convert) (I Tim 3:6)

(3504) neofutov, — neh-of’-oo-tos; from (3501) (neov) and a derivative of (5453) (fuw); newly planted, i.e. (figurative) a young convert (“neophyte”): — novice.
(3501) neov, — neh’-os; including the comparative newterov, neh-o’-ter-os; a primary word; “new”, i.e. (of persons) youthful, or (of things) fresh; figurative regenerate: — new, young.
Novice from the Greek is “newly planted”. KJV margin note – “One newly come to the faith”.
Why? “lest being lifted up with pride he fall into condemnation of the devil” – suggesting the sin for which Satan was expelled from heaven was the sin of pride (Luke 10:18).
The word elder itself lends to spiritual experience. “One might be a seasoned and successful business man, an experienced superintendent, or a veteran of the military, and still be a novice in the kingdom of God” (Duncan, 71)
Spiritual maturity comes from years of desiring the sincere milk of the word, and then growing to be a teacher who consumes meat on a regular basis.

II. DOMESTIC RELATIONS

HUSBAND & FATHER:

Husband of one wife (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6).

Must be a male. “Greek word aner “husband” is a word which denotes a man as opposed to a woman. Of its 215 occurrences in the NT, 156 times it is translated man, fifty times it is translated husband, six times it is translated sir, one time it is translated fellow, and twice (Luke 24:19 & Acts 3:14) it is not translated. It is never used to refer to a woman or to both men and woman” (Bobby Duncan, The Elders Which Are Among You, p 20)

Not a polygamist, nor a bachelor, but married. Not more than one wife, not less than one wife.
What about MDR? If either has scripturally put away their former mate b/c of that mates fornication (Matt 19:9), then they are scripturally remarried. He would be only the husband of one wife. He can serve as long as his MDR doesn’t cause him to lack other qualifications, such as having a good report of them which are without (I Tim 3:7) (Duncan, p 21)
“given to hospitality” is made much easier as a husband of one wife. The wife helps fulfill this qualification as a family unit (Duncan, p 21).

Rule well own house (1 Timothy 3:4-5; Titus 1:6).

Well governed, able to manage own household well.

A. His children not accused of riot or unruly.

B. His children must be in subjection with all gravity.

C. His children must be faithful, believing.

D. His wife cannot be the "boss" but must be in subjection

(Ephesians 5:22).

E. The reason: "For if a man know not how to rule his own house,

how shall he take care of the church of God?"

F. To meet the qualifications, an elder MUST have children. If he

has none, there is no way of knowing whether he has the ability

to so govern and rule the congregation.

CHILDREN:

How Many Necessary?

“the language itself does not demand a plurality of children” (Duncan, 64)
We use children in a general sense to include just one child.
- Ask a man with one child if he has any children, the answer is yes.
- Ask a woman whose first grandchild has just been born if she has any grandchildren? The answer, yes.
- The plural noun includes both the singular and plural.
“Children”
- Matt 22:24 – “levirate marriage” (Latin – levir, husband’s brother’). Moses said, If a man die, having no CHILDREN, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.”
- The word “children” is plural, but has reference to one who does not have a child. If he has one child, this law doesn’t apply.
- Deut 25:5 actually says, “and have no child”. If “having no children” means not having a single child, then having a single child would be “having children.”.
- Matt 19:29 – “children” - What about the one whom only has to forsake one child? Will he receive an hundredfold and inherit everlasting life? Notice: Father, Mother, & Wife are singular. “Children” is translated from the same plural Greek noun that it is in Titus 1:6.

Children Believing (Faithful)

(4103) pistov, — pis-tos’; from (3982) (peiqw); object trustworthy; subject trustful: — believe (-ing, -r), faithful (-ly), sure, true.
(3982) peiqw, — pi’-tho; a primary verb; to convince (by argument, true or false); by analogy to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflexive or passive to assent (to evidence or authority), to rely (by inward certainty): — agree, assure, believe, have confidence, be (wax) confident, make friend, obey, persuade, trust, yield.

In order for a man to qualify as an elder, all of his children must be children of God (Christians). ASV – “having children that believe”
However, it is not the case that they must be faithful if not under their roof or out from their oversight. {Reason} We must not advocate once saved, always saved ideology (impossibility of apostasy). The parents must raise their
children in the nurture and admonish of the Lord. It does not always make it the case that a child will remain a faithful Christian or faithful child of God after having left the oversight of the parents or home. Each child is still left at free will to choose.
Train up a child in the way he shall go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. This is a proverb, a general truth. Just because you train him up right doesn’t remove free will from the child. A child may still choose to depart from his upbringing, and thus will no longer be a faithful child of God.
“We cannot hold a man responsible for the actions of those who are not his responsibility and over whom he has no control. When children grow up and establish homes of their own, parents cannot and should not if they could, continue to control the lives of those children. If a man is qualified to be an elder in every respect, the that his children may become unfaithful after they are grown and out from under his control should not disqualify him” (Duncan, 67). Hence, “his own house”. Only those who are in his own house, and under his own houses’ authority.
Married children cannot be ruled over. They leave and cleave to their new family.

Children in Subjection (I Tim 3:4)

Subjection (5292) uJpotagh, — hoop-ot-ag-ay’; from (5293) (uJpotassw); subordination: — subjection.
(5293) uJpotassw, — hoop-ot-as’-so; from (5259) (uJpo) and (5021)(tassw); to subordinate; reflexive to obey: — be under

obedience (obedient), put under, subdue unto, (be, make) subject

(to, unto), be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self unto.

(5259) uJpo, — hoop-o’; a primary prep.; under, i.e. (with the generic) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative) of place (whither [underneath] or where [below]) or time (when [at]): — among, by, from, in, of, under, with. In comparative it retains the same genitive applications, especially of inferior position or condition, and specially covertly or moderately.
(5021) tassw, — tas’-so; a prolonged form of a primary verb (which latter appears only in certain tenses); to arrange in an orderly manner, i.e. assign or dispose (to a certain position or lot): —addict, appoint, determine, ordain, set.

WIFE: (I Tim 3:11)

Wife Grave (dignified, serious-minded)

(4586) semnov, — sem-nos’; from (4576) (sebomai); venerable, i.e. honorable: — grave, honest.
(4576) sebomai, — seb’-om-ahee; middle of an apparently primary verb; to revere, i.e. adore: — devout, religious, worship.
Wife must be grave - serious, somber about the business to be conducted.

Wife is not a slanderer

(1228) diabolov, — dee-ab’-ol-os; from (1225) (diaballw); a traducer; specially Satan [compare Hebrew {7854} (satan)]: —false accuser, devil, slanderer.
Not slanderers - not one who is going to talk maliciously regarding others.

Wife Temperate, sober (self controlled)

(3524) nhfaleov, — nay-fal’-eh-os; or nhfaliov, nay-fal’-ee-os; from (3525) (nhfw); sober, i.e. (figurative) circumspect: — sober.
(3525) nhfw, — nay’-fo; of uncertain affinity; to abstain from wine (keep sober), i.e. (figurative) be discreet: — be sober, watch.

Sober - having the right attitude toward herself.

Wife faithful in all things

Same Greek as “faithful” children in vs 4
Faithful in all things - She must be a steward as well, as she will aid him in his work.

III. CHARACTER

Desire the work (1 Timothy 3:1).

Desire is translated from 2 Greek words. First, “to stretch one’s self out in order to touch or grasp something, to reach after or desire something” (J.H. Thayer, Greek-English Lexicon of the NT, p 452). The second, “to have a desire for, long for” (Thayer, p 238). The later is equal to our expression, “to set one’s heart upon” (Thayer).
A man will not give his best if he does not desire the work. If he qualifies in other ways but does not have the desire, he should not serve until he can desire to serve - work. The word "work" needs to be understood and emphasized; it is a work.
Certainly it is an honor to be appointed to the eldership, but the eldership was not designed by God to be an honorary position; it is rather a work. For example, look at Acts 20:28-31. Elders must watch, warn, and protect the flock from wolves. This is a great responsibility. In I Peter 5:2-3, elders are to feed or tend the flock. The Greek here means literally “to shepherd”. The souls of all the members of the congregation are entrusted into the care and keeping of the elders. This is the responsibility being sought by one desiring the eldership. Heb 13:17 states that elders will give an account of the souls entrusted into their care. (Bobby Duncan, The Elders Which Are Among You, p 11-14)
Example of Desire – Heb 11:16

Good testimony (report) from without (1 Tim. 3:7).

One who has a good report from those which are without (not members of the church). Well respected by those outside the church. Well thought of by outsiders.
“What kind of reputation does he have among the people with whom he lives and where he work?
What do the people with whom he has done business think of him?
What kind of reputation does he have among his own neighbors?
What kind of estimate of the church will these people have when they learn he has been appointed to serve as one of the overseers of the flock?” (Duncan, 73)
Justice and Holiness effect one’s reputation without tremendously.
Warning to YOUTH: It is important to maintain a good name. “The wild oats one sows, even while he is young, may be a great hindrance to his usefulness in the service of God many years later” (Duncan, 75).

Blameless -- above reproach (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6).

One against whom no evil charge can be sustained -- innocent -- not guilty of evil. This does not mean that elders must be sinless (Romans 3:23, I John 1:8). Jesus is the only man who ever lived a sinlessly perfect life (Heb 4:15). This man must be a man about whom no uncomplimentary evil rumors are circulated; character is to be unimpeachable. Elders must be men who live pure, clean lives.

Blameless means
- literally, “that cannot be laid hold of” (W.E. Vines, Expository Dictionary of NT Words [London: Revell, 1962], p 131).
- “not apprehended, that cannot be laid hold of”, “that cannot be reprehended, not open to censure, irreproachable” (J.H. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of NT, p 44)
- “…of such character that no one can rightfully take hold of the person with a charge of unfitness (R.C.H. Lenski, Commentary on the NT [Minneapolis: Augsburg, 1961] Vol. IX, p 579).
- “men whose character is unimpeachable, who stand high in public estimation, known for their pure life and spotless integrity (David Lipscomb, A Commentary on the NT Episltes [Nashville: Gospel Advocate, 1958], Vol. V, p 146).
- “one who cannot be attacked (even by non-Christians) because of his moral conduct” (Gerhard Kittel, Theological Dictionary of the NT [Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1978], Vol IV, p 9).
If they are to be “ensamples for the flock to follow” I Peter 5:3, then it would make sense that the shepherd would lead his life fit to be followed.
If an elder is to lead the congregation in recovery of unfaithful members, then they must be blameless. Their work will be ineffective otherwise. How can he admonish or rebuke one in sin is he himself is guilty.
“the Greek word here translated ‘blamesless’ is a negative form of the word from which our word epileptic or epilepsy is derived; and this disease of the nervous system is so named because it is characterized by seizures. This bit of information would help us appreciate what the apostle meant when he wrote that an elder must be blameless. His conduct must be such that it will be impossible for anyone to seize upon some flaw in his character and render him powerless in the performance of his duty.” (Bobby Duncan, The Elders Which Are Among You, p 17)
Titus 1:6 and I Tim 3:2 are translated from 2 different Greek words. The word in Titus 1 “signifies that which cannot be called to account…that is, with nothing laid to one’s charge (as the result of public investigation)…” “It implies not merely acquittal , but the absence of even a charge or accusation against a person (Vines, p 131).

Just (Tit. 1:8).

One fair in his dealings, exact, upright, acting without partiality. \
“Justice has to do with treating one’s fellow human beings in a fair and equitable manner” (Duncan, 74)

Sober -- sober-minded (1 Timothy 3:4; Tit. 1:8).

Good common sense, mature in judgment, not frivolous, flighty, or flippant. But prudent, dignified, quiet, cool, collected, grave. Realizing the importance and earnestness of life.
“One may be lacking in sobriety and yet not be intoxicated by some alcoholic beverage” (Duncan, 29)
Sophron is from sozo (save) and phren (mind). “Holding on to or preserving one’s mental faculties in inherent in the word.” (Duncan, 29)
“of sound mind, sane, in one’s senses” and “curbing one’s desires and impulses, self-controlled, temperate” (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of NT, p 613).
Translated sober Titus 1:8, Temperate Titus 2:2, Discreet Titus 2:5.
“those who oversee God’s congregation cannot be impulsive, gullible, or unreasonable men, but that they must be those who are sane and sound in their thinking.” Responsible, self-restrained, not flighty or flippant. ( Duncan, 30)
Elders must make sound decisions. Emotions must not overrule intellect.
Do not confuse sobriety with timidity or fear. An overcautious elder may hinder the church in its work.

Holy (Tit. 1:8).

One devoted to God, living for God, godly, one cleansed from defilement of flesh and spirit.
“Holiness has to do with the proper discharge of one’s duty toward God” (Duncan, 74)

Lover of good men (Tit. 1:8).

A lover of goodness, has sympathy with all that is good and noble. A lover of good character in others.
ASV leaves off men correctly, and translates “lover of good”.
Greek philagathos Thayer – “loving goodness”.
“loving what is good” (Moulton and Milligan; The Vocabulary of the Greek NT)
Philos ‘friend’ (from phileo ‘love’) and agathos ‘good’.
Some are not interested in things that are good. They may drive across the state to attend a circus or a Football game, but cannot be persuaded to drive across town to attend a gospel meeting or a Bible Lectureship. Those mentioned above are not wrong, but it show that some do not have their priorities aligned properly.

3 passages written to all Christians to consider: Col 3:1-2; Matt 6:19-20; Phil 4:8

Given to hospitality (1 Tim. 3:2; Tit. 1:8).

A lover of hospitality. Not forgetful to entertain strangers (Heb. 13:2). Entertains members and strangers in the home - having the spirit of the good Samaritan. Shows a warm welcome to visitors at services, sets an example for the flock to follow.
Greek philoxinos from philos (friendly-verb form means to love) & xenos (stranger). “One who loves and is friendly to strangers is one who is given to hospitality” (Duncan, 37)
All saints are to be “given to hospitality” (Rom 12:13).
Hospitality is a natural outgrowth of love – (Heb 13:1; Rom 12:10; I Peter 4:8-10)
The Golden Rule motivates us to practice hospitality (Matt 7:12)
Heb 13:12 – entertain strangers, Matt 25 teaches we serve our Lord by serving our fellow man (Matt 10:42)
Genuine & Sincere interest in helping others (Acts 20:34-35; Gal 2:10), concerned about the needy, the widows, and the orphans (Rom 12:13; Heb 13:2) (Deaver, 13).

Gentle -- patient (1 Tim. 3:3).

Meek, considerate, kind, peaceable. Able to bear, endure strain. Not harsh nor unkind in manner.
Greek word translated “patient” occurs 5 times in the Greek. In Titus 3:2; James 3:17; I Peter 2:18 it is translated “gentle”. In Philippians 4:5 it is translated “moderation”.
“a reasonable man who stays within the limits of what is moderate & orderly” (Kittel’s Theological Dictionary of NT, II, 588).
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of NT defines “seemly, suitable…equitable, fair, mild, gentle.”

Temperate (Tit. 1:8).

Greek word naphalios signifies “abstinate with respect to wine” By association it means sober, careful, circumspect, I Thess 5:6,8; II Tim 4:5 (Deaver, 12)
One self-controlled, using moderation so as to blend the faculties to the highest degree. Ability to deny self.
Thayer defines “strong, robust…having power over, possessed of…mastering, controlling, curbing, restraining…controlling one’s self, temperate, continent.”
Kittel – “to be inwardly strong”. Opposite is “one who has no inner strength, who is undisciplined” (Kittel’s Theological Dictionary of NT, II, 340).
Heb 13:7 – We should be able to imitate their faith.

Is he a striker (brawler, violent)? (1 Tim. 3:3; Titus 1:7)

(4131) plhkthv, — plake’-tace; from (4141) (plhssw); a smiter, i.e.pugnacious (quarrelsome): — striker.
Striker defined by Thayer – “Bruiser”, one who is “ready with a blow”. Also, “a pugnacious, contentious, quarrelsome person”.
“not a brawler” defined by Thayer – “abstaining from fighting” metaphorically means “not contentious”.

Is he quarrelsome (fighter)? (1 Tim. 3: 3)

Is he self-willed (head strong, contentious)? (Titus 1:7)

Greek word authades ‘selfwilled’ is used twice in the NT, here and in II Peter 2:10. Denotes one who is “dominated by self-interest, and inconsiderate of others, arrogantly asserts his own will” (Expository Dictionary of NT Words, by W.E. Vine).
“one so far overvauling any determination at which he has himself once arrived that he will not be removed from it (Trench’s NT Synonyms).
Such words as “self-satisfied, arbitrary, unconsidered, morose, gruff, blatant, and shameless” (Kittel’s Theological Dictionary of NT)
“human impulse violating obedience to the divine command” (Duncan, 77).
Self willed dominated by self-interest. Arrogant.
III John 9-10 Diotrephes – loved the preeminence.
Elders must follow Phil 2:3
Contentious – Greek word “amachon is one who is not of the fighting kind” (Deaver, 14)

Is he soon angry (quick tempered)? (Titus 1:7)

“soon angry” defined by Thayer - “prone to anger, irascible”
“One who is prone to outburst of temper, easily angered, contentious, quarrelsome, ready to fight, cannot be an elder in the church of Christ” (Duncan, 51).
This is not the example of our Lord (I Peter 2:23)
Anger itself is not sinful (Eph 4:26), but uncontrolled anger is (James 1:19; Prov 14:17,29; Prov 19:11)

Is he a lover of money (covetous, greedy)? (1 Tim. 3:3)

An unhealthy desire for material possessions – an inordinate desire for money. Unholy desire for gain.
“not covetous” I Tim 3:3 literally means “not to be fond of silver”. Same Greek word appears in Heb 13:5.
Condemned in Col 3:5; I Cor 5:10; Ex 18:21
If an elder was greedy of filthy lucre, then the people would be materially oriented and very little interested in spiritual matters.
“A covetous eldership will make a covetous church, and a covetous church is a dead church.” (McGarvey, 59).

IV. HABITS OF LIFE

Vigilant (1 Timothy 3:2).

Greek word nephalios, literally means “holding no wine” (Gerhard Kittel, Theological Dictionary of the NT [Grand Rapids, 1978], Vol IV p 939).
In the NT, the word is not used in a literal sense, but a metaphorical sense; calm, dispassionate, and circumspect (Marvin R. Vincent, Word Studies in the NT [Grand Rapids, 1969], Vol IV. p 229).
This same word is translated sober in I Tim 3:11 and Titus 2:2
“An elder must be characterized by the ability to think and reason clearly – that which the man who is filled with wine certainly cannot do” (Duncan, p 23)
“Watchful and vigilant imply acute perception of what is dangerous or potentially so” (Duncan, p 23)
Watchful, both for himself and all the flock (Acts 20:28).
Synonyms: alert, wide-awake. He must be awake to dangers, weaknesses, opportunities, development of Christians. He cannot watch the flock of God properly if he does not have contact with them. Should have vision (Phillipians 3:13-14).
Elders must be vigilant in the following 6 areas:
- To their own lives (Acts 20:28)
- With reference to the welfare of the congregation. (Acts 20:28)
- God’s flock must also be protected from false teaching.
- Elders must be students of the word so they may defend the flock against false teaching.
- Elderships must employ gospel preachers who will preach the word (II Tim 4:2) so the flock is feed.
- Watch (Acts 20:31, Heb 13:17)
asd

Good behavior -- orderly (1 Tim. 3:2).

Modest, well-mannered, well behaved, dignified, orderly in dress and habits. Not sloven in appearance or sloven in manners.
Greek word kosmios is translated “orderly” in ASV. Same word translated “modest” in I Tim 2:9, and in the same verse the verb form is translated “adorn”.
Mannerly, Gentleman. “denotes a quality of mind and character which will then naturally manifest itself in the life (R.C.H. Lenski, Commentary pg 282-283)
Thayer – “of good behavior – well-arranged, seemly, modest. A well ordered life”
Kittel’s Theological Dictionary of NT, “The concept always contains the idea of control of the body and its movements and impulses.” When discussing the Greek word kosmios, Kittel used words like “order, adornment, self-controlled, disciplined, well mannered, and honorable.”
“One who cannot order his own behavior with disciplined self-control and dignity should never be appointed to the eldership” (Duncan, 35)

Not given to wine (no brawler)

Does he drink alcoholic beverages?
The Greek word paroinos, literally means “by or beside wine”. A marginal note in the KJV says, “ready to quarrel, and offer wrong, as one in wine.” The ASV translates the word “no brawler”.
Wine is generic determined based upon context. It can mean in the grape, freshly squeezed, or fermented.
If drinking any amount of alcoholic beverages is wrong, why didn’t Paul say that elders should not drink wine at all?
- If he had, then they would not have been able to eat grapes, drink grape juice, or eat dried grapes (raisins). They would have been under restrictions like the Nazarenes (Num 6:3).
- The Prohibition is not against all wine, only fermented.
Elders cannot be brawlers b/c their examples would be tarnished and it is behavior that is contrary to the kingdom of our Lord.
Elderships would be unable to meet and make decisions without brawling, quarrelling, being contentious, as if they had been drinking strong fermented drink.

Step 2 – Congregation Nomination

Though NOT a binding example, this is an example of how the apostles asked the early church to look out among themselves and select seven men to carry out the service of tables and minister to the Grecian widows. There is no indication that these men met the qualifications of 1^st century deacons that served under qualified elders. These men were chosen to serve a specific role and purpose. Two of these men, Phillip and Stephen, left and became full time evangelist (gospel preachers). These men were also officially recognized (appointed) by the apostles. Since we no longer have apostles, this could not be practiced today.

Acts 6:3 – Wherefore, brethren, LOOK YE OUT AMONG YOU seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, WHOM WE (the twelve apostles, vs. 2) MAY APPOINT OVER THIS BUSINESS.

Step 3 – Individual Elimination

(Asked personally if work desired and if qualified)

In order to keep congregational tension at a minimal, each individual that has had their name submitted will be asked personally and privately 3 questions by the current elders:

1) Do you desire the work?

2) Is there anything that might hinder you from becoming an elder?

3) Do you meet all of the scriptural qualifications listed in I Tim 3:1-7, Titus 1:6-9, &

I Peter 5:1-4?

Those that answer NO to #1 or #3 or YES to #2 will be removed from the nomination list and will not be announced to the congregation publicly. Therefore, if you submitted a name to be considered and do not hear it listed as a nomination publicly, then that individually personally removed their name from the nomination list.

Step 4 – Reputation Examination

(2 weeks for any accusations of qualifications or reputation without)

Any qualifications of a candidate may be brought into question during this period. The process is as follows:

Member questions a particular qualification of candidate by marking it on the “qualification worksheet”, signing their name, and turning it in to a current elder.
The elders will arrange a time in which the individual questioning will be brought in a meeting with the current elders and candidate to discuss the issue at hand.
If the questioning individual has a “scriptural objection” to the candidacy of the nominee as elders, then this candidate will be asked to remove their name from the nominee list.

Step 5 – Ordination (Appointment)

(Evangelist officially appoints elder to congregation - Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5)

Though the evangelist appointed elders in every church and every city, this was due to the fact that the early church did not have elders at those locations at the time. This is why Titus was left in Crete, to set things in order. Therefore, the evangelist has the authority to appoint and ordain elders. This however doesn’t mean that he must. If a congregation already has elders ruling the congregation, then it is scriptural in the realm of expediency for the current elders to appoint (ordain, officially recognize) the new scripturally qualified men to serve as elders to the congregation. Elders do have delegated authority in the church given by our Lord. It is with that authority that they may present to the congregation the new shepherd(s).

Works Cited

Duncan, Bobby. The Elders Which Are Among You: The Qualifications, Selection, and Appointment of Elders. Publishing Design, Inc. 1989.

McGarvey, J.W. A Treatise on The Eldership. Reprint of 1870. Dehoff Publications. 1990.

Deaver, Roy. Leadership Training Series: Elders and Deacons. Brown Trail School of Preaching. Biblical Notes Publishing.

Qualifications of Deacons

Adam Evans — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0600

Qualifications of Deacons

General Use of Deacon – servant, attendant

Servents (John 2:5,9), Christ (Rom 15:8), the Lord’s followers (John 12:26), Tychicus (Eph 6:21), Epaphras (Col 1:7), Paul (I Cor 3:5; II Cor 3:6; Col 1:23, ect)

Special Use of Deacon – men who met qualifications, officers in a congregation.

I Tim 3:8-10, 12-13

INTRODUCTION:

Phil 1:1 distinguishes the Bishop (elder) from the deacon, and the Bishops from the saints.
Deacons are not “overseers”. They serve under the elders, as does every Christian.
Deacons are a special group of tested, tried, proved, and capable servants.

DEACONS MUST BE:

Grave

The Greek word semnos means “honorable, reputable, grave, serious, dignified” (Deaver, 50).

Not double-tongued

The Greek word dilogos means “speaking one thing and meaning another; being deceitful in words” (Deaver, 50)

Not given to much wine

Not “addicted to much wine” Weymouth and the Berkeley Version
Cannot be influenced with the evil fruits of alcoholic drink.

Not greedy of filthy lucre

Not sinfully concerned about material gain, not covetous, spiritually minded, spiritual things a priority.

Hold the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

Must hold fast to and earnestly contend for the faith. (Jude 1:3)
Must know the faith and be submissive to it.
Must maintain a pure conscience.

First be proved

One who is proved is one who is found blameless
Known, tested, proved – then may become deacon.

Husband of one wife

Must be married.
Must have only one wife

Rule their children and their own houses well

Must rule all in the house.
Wife must be in subjection
Good manager of his household
Ruling their house well - He loves his wife and children; he cares for his family; he follows the example of Abraham, Genesis 18:19 “For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.”

DEACONS WIVES MUST BE: (I Tim 3:11)

Wife Grave (dignified, serious-minded)

(4586) semnov, — sem-nos’; from (4576) (sebomai); venerable, i.e. honorable: — grave, honest.
(4576) sebomai, — seb’-om-ahee; middle of an apparently primary verb; to revere, i.e. adore: — devout, religious, worship.
Wife must be grave - serious, somber about the business to be conducted.

Wife is not a slanderer

(1228) diabolov, — dee-ab’-ol-os; from (1225) (diaballw); a traducer; specially Satan [compare Hebrew {7854} (satan)]: —false accuser, devil, slanderer.
Not slanderers - not one who is going to talk maliciously regarding others.

Wife Temperate, sober (self controlled)

(3524) nhfaleov, — nay-fal’-eh-os; or nhfaliov, nay-fal’-ee-os; from (3525) (nhfw); sober, i.e. (figurative) circumspect: — sober.
(3525) nhfw, — nay’-fo; of uncertain affinity; to abstain from wine (keep sober), i.e. (figurative) be discreet: — be sober, watch.

Sober - having the right attitude toward herself.

Wife faithful in all things

Same Greek as “faithful” children in vs 4
Faithful in all things - She must be a steward as well, as she will aid him in his work.

QUESTIONS

Acts 6 – Deacons or not?

First identify the terms.

“Appointed to ‘serve’ (diakonein) tables, to assist in the daily ministration (diakonia). Hence, it is right to call them ‘deacons.’ There could be no ‘diakonein’ or ‘diakonia’ without a ‘diakonos’.

What Qualifications did the deacons in Acts 6 have to meet?

Of Good Report
Full of the Spirit
Full of Wisdom

Are the Deacons in Acts 6 the same as the deacons in I Tim 3?

No, the deacons in Acts 6 met different qualifications than those in I Tim 3.
The task of which was set before them in Acts 6 was a temporal one.
Two of the deacons appointed, Phillip and Stephen, left Jerusalem and began to evangelize elsewhere.
Though both groups were servants, they were not holding the same office.

Can women be deacons?

No. Paul wrote to the church of Rome,“I commend unto you Phobe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also” (Rom. 16:1-2).
Servant is sometimes translated deaconess (Amplified, RSV). Thus, some are so bold to assert there ought to be “deaconess” in the church today. It is one thing to say here is a women who was a servant at the church in Cenchrea, and is another thing to say that a women should fill that role in an official capacity.
- In Romans 13:4, Paul used the same word servant relative to government official. “For he is the minister of God…” This is the same word. Certainly Paul is not saying the government should hold some type of church office.
- Paul also used this word in chapter 15 with regard to Jesus Christ. Our Lord was also a servant, but our Lord did not hold the office of deacon.
- It is possible for a lady to be a servant in the church and not hold that as an official deaconess. When you look at the qualifications of deacons from I Timothy 3, there is no recommendation for a lady to assume that position. Yet, we don’t want to minimize this lady as a servant of the church. Paul said she was a help to many people including Paul himself (Burkhart, Johnny. Godly Women. Informer. 8/20/2002. New Albany Church of Christ).

ASSIGNED DUTIES OF DEACONS

All the work of the church, including that of deacons, is overseen by the elders (Acts 20:28; Hebrews 13:7,17). The deacons have authority only as they are assigned to be "over" some specific "business" (Acts 6:3). Each deacon should be delegated responsibilities which are clearly understood by the deacon, the elders, and the congregation. Deacons may assist the elders by performing assignments in all scriptural works, particularly material, physical, benevolent, and mission areas.

OBSERVATIONS

The work of the deacon is important. He is not an elder, may never be qualified as an elder, and need not necessarily use his office as a stepping stone to be an elder. He can serve as a deacon, recognizing the value of that service. Deacons need to function regularly and be appreciated for their work's sake. When deacons have used the office well, they "purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith. . . " (1 Tim. 3:13).

Good deacons are a blessing. When they were appointed and did their work in the setting of Acts 6, the complaining stopped, the needs were met, the Word increased, the disciples multiplied, and the deacons grew in faith and service (Acts 6:7-8). Just as the church today needs good elders to lead, it also needs competent, willing deacons to serve.

Grace & Law

Adam Evans — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0600

"Some would have us to believe grace and law are in opposition to one another. However, the truth of the matter is they work in perfect harmony with each other in God's scheme of redemption. You cannot have one without the other” (Scaggs 40).

With LAW ONLY and NO GRACE, we would be in trouble since no one except Jesus kept a law perfectly. With GRACE ONLY and NO LAW, then we could never be lost. "There would be no need to obey any commandments because we would not be under a law” (Scaggs 40).
Since sin is a transgression of the law (1 Jn 3:4), and there would be no law, therefore, no sin. NO LAW, NO SIN.
Romans 7:7 says, "What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet."
Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;".
"IF there is NO LAW, rather GRACE ONLY, then how could Paul make such a statement, for indeed NO ONE COULD SIN!” (Scaggs 41) (Emphasis mine).
Titus 2:11-12 says, "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that,”
[NEGATIVELY] “denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live”
[POSITIVELY] “soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;"
(added words and emphasis in brackets [ ] mine).

"The very fact that grace teaches men these things shows there is still law” (Scaggs 41).
(Johnie J. Scaggs, Jr. Overview of the Book of Romans, Pg 40-41).

There are some who believe that there was no law prior to the Law of Moses and the 10 Commandments. I would like for us to examine the Biblical text and ask this question: Was there law prior to Mt. Sinai? It seems logical to me that there was LAW prior to the 10C (10 Commandments) / Law of Moses given at Mt Sinai. For example, prior to the 10C / Law of Moses we have Cain & Abel.

1 Jn 3:12 "Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous."

Cain’s works were evil. How could his work be evil if there was not standard of good or evil? How could Abel’s works be righteous if there was no standard of right and wrong? Righteous means doing what is right.

I contend that there has always been a standard of good or evil, though it may not have been written down. We know from Heb 1:1 that God has in the past communicated his will through prophets and also directly to the fathers <patriarchs Heb 7:4> (i.e Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Israel).

When God communicates his will to mankind, this creates a standard, which is a law. If a person violates God’s will (His commandments), he sins (works evil). Cain’s works were evil because there was some standard of good and evil, God’s will. Abel’s works were righteous because there was some standard of what was right and what was wrong.

Heb 11:4 "By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh."

How did Abel offer a more excellent sacrifice that gave him witness that he was righteous? Heb 11:4 shows that Abel offered it by faith. Romans 10:17 teaches that faith comes by God’s word. Abel offered a more excellent sacrifice by faith.

It seems very logical and biblical to say that there was law or good / evil and right / wrong before Moses at Mt. Sinai and the 10C / Law of Moses (Ex 20; Deut 5).

Since the Law of Moses / 10C were only given to the Jews (children of Israel) Deut 5:1-3, then that legal system of commands were never given to non-Jewish people (Gentiles). That means, that from the time of Mt. Sinai until the time of the cross, non-Jewish people (Gentiles) lived under the same standards and guidance as they had before Sinai, just like Cain, Abel, and those that followed.

We would agree that Adam & Eve sinned in the garden (1 Tim 2:14; Rom 5:14). But how could they sin if there was no law, since sin is the transgression of God’s law (1 Jn 3:4). Adam & Eve violated the law of God in the garden of Eden when they disobeyed God’s direct command. When God commands, then there is law. When we disobey God’s commands, then we violate the law of God and sin.

How are we saved like Abraham was? What does our salvation have in common with Abraham? How can a Patriarch from thousands of years past share anything in common with us today and our salvation?

What can we say about Abraham? Abraham by faith followed God, even before circumcision was given. During this time, “justification is not limited to those who are circumcised”. This is “seen in the fact that Abraham was pronounced ‘righteous’ (in Gen 15:6) some 29 years (according to Jewish reckoning) before his circumcision (Gen 17:24). Thus, Abraham’s justification serves as a prototype for the salvation of all who will believe, whether circumcised or not (Rom 4:9-12).” (Gary Workman. Getwell Lectures 1983 - The book of Romans, National Christian Press, pg 81).

Abraham was already, prior to circumcision, following God’s commands. (i.e. Gen 12:1-2). By faith, Abraham left his country and his kindred prior to circumcision.

Heb 11:8-9 “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:”

How is it that Abraham offered up Isaac by faith?

Heb 11:17 “By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son.” God communicated His will, His commands, to Abraham.

Gen 22:1-3 “And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him.”

God said unto Abraham.. do this….Abraham went to the place God told him to do what God had told him. He obeyed the commandments of God. Was this a command of God? Yes. Therefore, if there are commandments to be obeyed and disobeyed, then there is a standard of right and wrong, good and evil, and laws of which can be broken. If Abraham had disobeyed God, would he have broken God’s law or commandment? Yes, he would have. Therefore, there was a law, though not yet a written law as we know it.

How are we saved like Abraham was saved? When we by faith in God rely upon God to save us and obey his will in submission to His authority, God saves us.

It just doesn’t seem logical to me to say there was no law of God prior to the Law of Moses and the 10 Commandments.

What about those who were not Jewish or Hebrew? Was there any right or wrong (law) or standard for them prior to the Law of Moses and Ten Commandments?

Jonah 1:1-2 “Now the word of the LORD came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me.”

God communicated directly with Jonah and commanded him to go preach repentance to a Gentile people and a Gentile nation. This shows that God was communicating with other nations and peoples, not just the Jews through the Law of Moses / 10C. We only have the story line of history of God’s chosen people and their interactions with other peoples. However, God was also communicating with Gentile nations. When they repented, God did not destroy them. (Jonah 3:10; Matt 12:41). However, when they turned back to their evil ways and sin, God punished them (Nahum).

What laws are we to follow & who gave them?
Our lawgiver today is Christ.

Heb 1:1-2 “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;”

We will be judged by the teachings and words of Christ.

Jn 12:48 “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.”

Jesus Christ gave his words and teachings and doctrine to His apostles and prophets through the Holy Spirit. Those men wrote these teachings and commands down through the Holy Spirit for us to have today, thus the NT.

Acts 1:1 “The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:”

Eph 3:1-6 “For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:”

It is here that we see the holy apostles and prophets recorded the teachings of Christ, the NT, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Thus making the NT the word of God and not the word of men.

Is there a law today? If so, what laws are we to follow? Also, who gave these laws? Our lawgiver today is Christ. The holy apostles and prophets recorded the teachings of Christ, the New Testament, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. We have those teachings today. They are “….profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). How can teaching, scripture, or writings be profitable for correction if there is no right or wrong to correct. How can we have instruction in righteousness if it is not something to receive instruction toward? There is no right or wrong without a standard of right and wrong.

Therefore, the scriptures give us instruction in how to be right, or how to live right before God. If you do not heed those instructions, then you do wrong. If you do wrong, you disobey God’s instructions or God’s will and violate His commands. Therefore, you sin by violating the instructions or law of God. 1 John 5:17 “All unrighteousness is sin”. We cannot call Jesus our Lord if we do not do the things that he says or instructs (Luke 6:46). Either God has communicated His will to us today or He has not. It cannot be both. I am convicted and believe that God, our Creator, has communicated His will to mankind so that mankind may be saved.

1 Timothy 2:4 “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” Truth is something that we must come to the knowledge of. Truth is something that can be obtained and known. Jesus, our Savior said, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). Truth can be known, and we can come to knowledge of that truth and be saved. Those of the world need this knowledge of truth which leads us to salvation. Where do we find that knowledge of truth that leads us to salvation? John 17:17 says, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” God’s word is the source of truth. It is the source of knowledge that leads us to salvation. Without this knowledge and truth, we would not know that Jesus is the resurrected Messiah, the Savior of the world. Therefore, God’s word is truth and contains instructions in righteousness (right living) and also contains teachings that lead to knowledge of salvation.

If there is righteousness and unrighteousness, then there must be a standard of right / wrong, of good / evil, of right doing and wrong doing, a law. To say there is no law is to say that we cannot sin, since there is no standard of right / wrong. If there is no sin, then there is no need of God’s grace. Therefore, grace and a standard of law or right and wrong go hand in hand. The legal system sets the standard of perfection and God’s grace fills the gaps of our human imperfections and incapability of living the law flawlessly. Without grace, there is no hope. Without hope and faith, we would not access that grace. Without law, we would not need grace, faith, or hope because there would be no sin. Since we have a new covenant built upon better promises, we then follow this as our guide (Hebrews 8:6). That new covenant is the New Testament (Hebrews 9:15). Jesus shed his blood on the cross for us. Matthew 26:28 says, “For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” We today live under a better testament, better covenant, a better law. As was stated before, the law itself alone doesn’t save us, but it is still God’s guide for mankind to follow. It is God’s standard of right and wrong.

There is a teaching making its appearance again regarding the righteousness of man called “double imputation”. It goes something like this: “The system of faith says, believe in Jesus, and He will give you His own righteous record as a gift” (Jones 45). “We can only be saved when the spotless moral performance record of Jesus is applied to our accounts” (Jones 40). This is different than saying that our sins are remitted or removed by the blood of Jesus and so our record is cleared (which would be single imputation). This is saying that we now have the record of Jesus' perfect life applied to our account. This is called “double imputation” which is noted by the popular Calvinist theologian R.C. Sproul. He says, “Of course, Protestantism really teaches a double imputation. Our sin is imputed to Jesus and his righteousness is imputed to us” (Sproul).
This is a teaching of Reformed Theology or in other words, a Calvinistic (Presbyterian) or Lutheran teaching. If God gave you the righteous record of deity, then you could never be lost. This is a Calvinistic teaching which leans to the impossibility of apostasy. It is the teaching that says “… God has credited his very own righteousness to the sinner's account” (Jones 21). This false doctrine teaches that “In the gospel of Jesus, not only have your sins been forgiven, but Jesus’ own righteousness (perfect record) has been put upon you” (Jones 45). If this is the case, then when, by faith, we become Christians, then if that record has been applied, how could it be removed? We would have the record of Christ. This teaches the false doctrine of the impossibility of apostasy. It is possible to fall from grace (Gal 5:4).

Many who teach this doctrine quote Abraham as a poster child of this teaching. Let us consider Abraham and his justification. Abraham's "justification was therefore not based on any works about which Abraham could boast, but was based on God's grace accepted by faith (Romans 4:5) and the obedience that faith induces (Heb. 11:8-19; James 2:21-24). The imputation of such righteousness depends on God's gracious willingness to forgive sins (Romans 4:6-8). This is not an imputation of the personal righteousness of Christ, as some are teaching, but rather the 'righteousness of God' (Romans 1:17; 3:21) - a legal verdict of exoneration that comes from God as a result of Jesus' sacrificial death. It is because of being 'reconciled to God through the death of his Son' (Romans 5:10), and therefore 'justified by his blood' (Romans 5:9), that righteousness 'might be reckoned' to us by God (Romans 4:11) (Workman 81). "The man to whom the Lord does not impute sin is the pardoned person. God does not count his sin against him because he is no longer a sinner. The man to whom God imputes sin is the one who is still in his sin" (Taylor Jr. 81). Regarding Romans 4:8, Winters states, the sins "are not imputed or counted because they are forgiven. God counts sin, all sin, as sin. But once sins are covered, forgiven, they are no longer credited to one's account" (Winters 52). If our sins are covered and forgiven, then we no longer have condemnation and stand justified before God due to the redemption of Christ and forgiveness of sins. We do not need the righteous record of Christ applied if we have our sins forgiven by Christ. We have no need of double imputation.

Jones, Jonathan. A Graceful Uprising: How Grace Changes Everything. Start2Finish Books, 2015.

Sproul, R. C. “Double Imputation.” Monergismcom Blog, 2012, www.monergism.com/double-imputation-r-c-sproul.

Taylor, Robert R. Studies in Romans. Quality Publications, 1996.

Winters, Howard. Commentary on Romans: Practical and Explanatory. Carolina Christian, 1985, Page 52.

Workman, Gary. The book of Romans. Getwell Lectures, 1983.

The King & His Kingdom

Adam Evans — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0600

The Good News Of The King & His Kingdom

If you think that the “good news” of the “gospel” is exclusively (only) about the King and not about His kingdom, then you have been fooled.

Some teach that the “good news” (gospel) is only exclusively the “Death, Burial, and Resurrection” (DBR) of Jesus (1 Cor 15:1-4). We do not deny that this is a bedrock principle of the gospel or “good news” that God has brought to man. However, we do deny that this is all of the good news and that it excludes any other teaching or Bible doctrine. We can see clearly in scripture that the “gospel” also includes the good news of the kingdom of God and not exclusively the good news about the King Jesus Christ alone.

We read in Matthew 4:23 “And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.”

This is repeated again in Matthew 9:35 “And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.”

In Mark 1:14-15, it says “Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.”

Clearly to believe the gospel is to believe the good news (gospel) of the kingdom of God as well.

We believe in the King, Jesus the Christ, and we believe in His kingdom (Matthew 16:18-19), the church of Christ. When discussing the preaching of Philip in Acts 8, we see him preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. When preaching the things concerning the kingdom, we find that he preached baptism. That is implicitly shown from verses 12 and 13 of chapter 8. They obeyed what they were taught.

Acts 8:12-13 “But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done”
The verse shows clearly that they were baptized because they believed the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. When we look at the teachings of Jesus, then we see that He emphasized the kingdom.

He taught people to be born again to enter that kingdom (John 3:3, 5). “3Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” …… 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

This is precisely what they did when they were baptized - they were born again.

This same type of expression is given in Colossians 1:13-14 which says, “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:”

It is clear that when we obey the gospel of Christ so that we may gain entrance into the kingdom, God saves us. Today, when we are born again, (baptized into Christ Galatians 3:27), we are “delivered … from the power of darkness” (our sins are washed away, Acts 22:16) and “we are translated into the kingdom of his dear Son.”

Our sins are removed like a cancerous tumor is removed during surgery. Just as Colossians 2:11-13 states, “In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;”

The body of the sins of the flesh are removed by a spiritual surgery, the circumcision of Christ, when we are buried with Christ in baptism and risen with him through faith. This is an operation that God performs as we respond to his commands in faith to be buried with him in baptism. It is after this surgery of God that our sins and trespasses are removed and forgiven. It is God that performs this spiritual surgery on the soul and it is also God who translates us into the kingdom of his dear Son. Acts 2:47 shows that the Lord is the one who adds us to the saved when we respond in obedience to his gospel message of salvation. God translates us into his kingdom, his church, when we submit to his will in obedience to His gospel message of salvation. This is why John could say that he was in the kingdom of God in Revelation 1:9. John had obeyed the gospel message of salvation and had submitted to Christ and His will. Therefore, he had been translated from darkness into the kingdom of his dear Son by the blood of Christ. When he was saved and his sins forgiven, then he was translated into that kingdom, the church of our Lord (Acts 2:38, 41, 47).

Preaching the “good news” of the kingdom of God includes preaching its arrival and terms of entrance into that kingdom. There is no reason why we must only accept the “MAN” Christ Jesus and not His “PLAN”. How can you truly accept Christ and reject His words or His authority? You cannot (Luke 6:46). We believe and teach that we must accept the “MAN” Christ Jesus and His “PLAN” which is issued from the divine man Christ Jesus.

True faith in the “MAN” accepts not only the PERSON of Christ (His deity & sonship - 2 John 1:7-8), but also the TEACHINGS (or DOCTRINE - 2 John 1:6-11) that come from the Christ.

The “good news” of the “gospel” is not exclusively only about the King Jesus Christ or His Death, Burial, and Resurrection alone. The “good news” (glad tidings) also includes those things concerning the kingdom of God (Acts 8:12), including the coming of the kingdom (Daniel 2:44), the establishment of that kingdom (Matthew 16:18-19; Mark 9:1; Luke 24:45-49; Acts 1:4-8; Acts 2:33,38,41,47), and the terms of entrance into that kingdom (John 3:3,5, 16, 22-23; Col 1:13-14).

Are you really accepting Christ as Lord and Master if you refuse to accept his word as authority? How can you say you are submissive to the Master if you refuse to submit to His will or His Word or His plan (Matthew 7:21-23)?

Define “His word”
That is a good question. “His word” from the article is in direct reference to Jesus Christ and His word. However, this would imply also God’s word, since Jesus is divine. Specifically in the article, the two times “His word(s)” are mentioned have a direct correlation to Jesus Christ. Therefore, this will be what I will answer.

Biblical authority resides in Christ who has all authority (Matt 28:18-20) and who is the head of the church (Eph. 5:25). The head has provided direct and full revelation (Jn. 14-16) to his apostles and prophets (Eph. 3:2-6) through the Holy Spirit. Paul teaches that if we want to know the mind of God, then we must read what those who have been inspired by the Holy Spirit have written. We today do not receive a direct operation of the Holy Spirit nor do we receive direct revelation from God by the Holy Spirit. Rather, we have the sword of the Spirit, the word of God (Eph. 6), which equips up unto all good works (II Tim. 3:16-17) and provides us with all things that pertain to life and godliness (II Peter 1:3). When we read it, we may know the will of Almighty God.

Faith comes by hearing the word of God (Rom 10:17). If our faith is not based upon the word of God, then it is not truth faith. Heb. 11:6 teaches that faith is required in order to please God. However, if our faith is not in accordance with the word of God, then it does not please God. All of this has a bearing upon biblical authority. The Holy Scriptures provide the authority for the church, especially for the government of the body of Christ.

Eph. 4:11 teaches that apostles and prophets, were all part of God’s plan. Today we do not have apostles since no one living today can meet the qualification of an apostle. (Acts 1:22). Those apostles served their divine purpose, as did the prophets.

The prophets and prophecy were also temporarily used during the infancy of the church. Paul through the Holy Spirit teaches us that the spiritual gifts given during the first century were temporary. I Cor. 12 gives us those gifts and I Cor. 13:8-ff teaches us that prophecy would not continue. It teaches that the prophecy was limited in that it only gave parts of God’s word at a time. Whereas the complete written revelation of God would come and there would no longer be a need for partial verbal revelation. Praise God, we have the completed written revelation of Almighty God.

We today still have evangelist who are making full proof of their ministry. Those who evangelize and share the gospel of Christ with others are doing this work. II Tim 4:2-5

Pastors (Elders) today are appointed by those whom they serve according to God’s qualifications set forth in Holy Writ (I Tim 3; Titus 1; I Peter 5; Heb 13). They are known in the Bible as Elders, Bishops, the Presbytery, Pastors, Shepherds, and Overseers. They are known more commonly today as Elders. The Eldership answers directly to the head of the church, Jesus Christ. They do this by following the head’s mandates found in his guidebook, the Bible. They do not have authority to create new doctrine. They exercise authority in matters of expediency and also in matters of fellowship as they shepherd the flock.

Teachers are a vital part of the functioning body of Christ. Teachers only provide insight to the biblical text by using sound hermeneutical principles. They do not deviate to the left or right, but follow the word in biblical balance. They follow sound, reasonable, and logical biblical hermeneutics.

Deacons may be appointed to facilitate the work of God delegated to them by the Eldership. Those Deacons are required to meet certain qualifications also found in the New Testament (I Tim 3:8-13). They provide a valuable service today for the work of God in the body of Christ.

The word of God is complete (I Cor 13:8-ff), and lacking no truth of which is necessary for our salvation. Jude 3 teaches that the faith has already been once and for all delivered unto the saints. Therefore, we are not waiting for another new revelation from God or some new teaching or doctrine. All has been revealed and recorded for our faith and guidance (Jn 20:30-31). I believe in the verbal plenary inspiration of the Bible.

The Holy Spirit communicates to us today through the complete written revelation of God found in the 66 books of the Bible. It is due to the work of the Holy Spirit that we have preserved for us “all truth” (Jn 16:13). The Holy Spirit guided the apostles into all truth and they wrote it down so we can read it (Eph 3:3-5).

The Bible does not teach that the Holy Spirit gives us direct knowledge outside of the written word. The Bible does not teach that the Holy Spirit gives some special individuals a special understanding or enlightenment. The Bible, given by the Holy Spirit, teaches us to study to show ourselves approved unto God (II Tim 2:15). It doesn’t teach us to pray for direct knowledge, but teaches us to study the word to understand what the will of the Lord is.

If the Holy Spirit was communicating directly to man today, there would be no division or new doctrines but complete agreement with the one teaching delivered by the Holy Spirit. Unfortunately, we do not see such unity based upon direct working of the Holy Spirit. That is because the Holy Spirit is not working in that way today.

The Holy Spirit wants us to be united in the same mind and same judgment (I Cor 1:10) based upon what was already delivered once and for all to the saints (Jude 3). We should be united in the one gospel (Gal 1:6-10) and in the doctrine of Christ (II Jn 9-11). The Holy Spirit (Acts 1:1-2) gave the apostles divine inspired truth (John 14:26; John 16:13) and they wrote that message down for us today by revelation of God. Acts 1:1-2 “The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:”
Jesus through the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen. When we follow the teachings of the holy apostles and prophets, then we are following the teachings of God & the Christ Jesus.
John 12:48-50 “48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.50 And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.”
During the New Testament times of the 1st century, God’s Word was passed through the Christ (Jesus the Son of God) and then passed through the Holy Spirit of God to the apostles and prophets. God’s word has been preserved and recorded (written) for us today, so that we may know the will of Almighty God. Therefore, God’s word, His word, is found within the pages of the 66 books of the Bible. If we want to know God’s will for our life today, then we read and study the 27 books of the New Testament where the teachings of the Good News, the gospel of the King and His Kingdom, are found. Christ came to bring us a better Testament, a better covenant built upon better promises (Hebrews 8:6). Christ’s blood is the blood of the New Testament (Matthew 26:28), which we remember (I Cor 11:25). We today will be judged by the teachings found in this New Testament or Covenant. However, we study all of God’s word since the whole Bible, both Old and New Testaments, are inspired teachings of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

What is “His word”? That is a good question.
You may reject the word of Christ by rejecting the “words in red”, so to speak. These are the direct words of the Christ. But you can also reject the word of Christ by rejecting the words of the holy apostles and prophets, since they too recorded the teachings of Christ by inspiration and were guided into all truth by the Holy Spirit. We must not reject the authority of Christ (Matthew 28:18) nor the inspired servants of the Savior (I Cor 14:37).
Jesus said in Matthew 7:21 “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” We must be sure to “do” the will of the Father. God’s will is the Testament we have today given by inspiration of God. Praise God we do not have to wonder what His word is.

Spiritual Gifts, Completed Revelation, and the Holy Spirit

Adam Evans — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0600

During the 1^st century, Paul speaks of the early church as having 9 spiritual gifts (I Cor 12:1, 8-10).

1) The word of wisdom

2) The word of knowledge

3) Faith

4) The gifts of healing

5) The working of miracles

6) Prophecy

7) Discerning of spirits (the ability to distinguish between spirits ESV) (discernings of spirits ASV)

8) Divers (various ESV, NASB) kinds of tongues, (different kinds of tongues NKJV)

9) The interpretation of tongues.

These spiritual gifts were given by the laying on of the apostle’s hands (Acts 8:13-25, esp. vs. 18). A qualified apostle (Acts 1:13-26, esp. vs. 22; who had witnessed the resurrected Christ) had the ability to transfer these spiritual gifts. Acts 19:6-7 is another examples of this phenomenon. It is the case that during the time in which the New Testament autographs were not yet complete, God used His Holy Spirit to deliver His message through voice by the Holy prophets and apostles. 2 Peter 1:21 says, “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” God used his chosen ambassadors to spread His holy message.

The spiritual gift of prophecy was given during the 1^st century as was the gift of direct divine knowledge. These spiritual gifts aided the church during its infancy. Just as scaffolding aids in the construction of a building, so the spiritual gifts aided God in the establishment of His Kingdom. These spiritual gifts served God’s purpose and then were done away with. Much like the scaffolding of construction, this item does not remain after the building’s construction is complete, so God’s spiritual gifts served their purpose and function and God not longer needed them once His kingdom was established and secure. We can see this by reading the next chapter of I Corinthians, chapter 13. The emphasis was on an enduring agape love, which without it, all would be void and useless.

The Corinthian body was divided over various issues and needed to have unity in truth. Many were zealous to seek spiritual gifts but were unloving in action. Paul uses what is called a synecdoche (a literary device) meaning representing a part for the whole when he begins the chapter. Instead of listing all nine of the spiritual gifts, he only listed a few, which would suffice for all nine of them (since he just listed them a few lines back). Without love, not a single one of the nine spiritual gifts would be beneficial to the body of Christ.

In I Cor 13:1 he mentions

1) “tongues of men and of angels”.

I Cor 13:2 he mentions the following:

2) “gift of prophecy”

3) “understand all mysteries”

4) “all knowledge”

5) “all faith”.

In I Cor 13:3 he mentions things that would not necessarily represent a spiritual gift listed in I Cor 12:8-10, but they are listed as well;

“bestow all my goods to feed the poor” and

“give my body to be burned”.

Paul uses the part to represent the whole, meaning, he mentions 5 of 9 spiritual gifts to represent all 9 of 9.

Why synecdoche? We use this figure of speech all the time we just don’t realize it. For example, our President may say, “We need more boots on the ground”. What is he referring to? He is referring to the whole soldier by mentioning his boots. In the southern United States, we say, “I’d like a coke with that”. Then we hear, “What kind?” Southerners use “Coke” to represent all carbonated beverages. This literary tool helps the writer to shorten his writings instead of having to relist all that would be encompassed. This helps the writer to be more concise.

Which of the nine spiritual gifts can you have without agape love and benefit the body of Christ? Paul’s answer would be zero. You must have love with all nine of those spiritual gifts. But wait a minute….. Paul, you didn’t mention all nine spiritual gifts and say that without love, they are of no profit. Well, truly he did, by using a form of speech called a synecdoche, representing the part for the whole. It is understood in the context that Paul has in mind the list of 9 he has mentioned previously.

Paul says, without agape love, those spiritual gifts are of no profit or benefit. He then give a beautiful definition of agape love in I Cor 13:4-7. He then shows that love never fails. It is not presently actively failing and never ever will fail. He emphasizes that above faith and hope, there is love, which is the greatest (I Cor 13:13). One the other hand, in I Cor 13:8-12 he speaks of things that fail and pass away. I Cor 13:8 speaks of prophecies that will fail, tongues that will end or cease, and knowledge that will vanish away. We again see the apostle Paul use the familiar literary device he has already employed in the same chapter, the synecdoche, (representing the part for the whole).

It would be a great disservice indeed to try to say that the items mentioned in I Cor 13:8 where not the same as the spiritual gifts listed in I Cor 12:8-10 and I Cor 13:1-2. Therefore, we conclude based upon the immediate contextual evidence (verses before and after), that the prophecy, tongues, and knowledge of I Cor 13:8 are indeed miraculous spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit.

Let me briefly define a few terms mentioned here in the text.

PROPHECY is the direct revelation of God’s word and will to a human, his chosen vessel, to proclaim to the rest of mankind His divine will.

TONGUES meant that a person was given the miraculous ability to speak in a known language and communicate God’s word and will without having ever studied or known anything about that language or dialect. Tongues were spoken on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2. Acts 2:4 “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”

Acts 2:5 we find that there were gathered together people “out of every nation under heaven”. Acts 2:6 says, ⁶Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.” They could hear them speak in their own language. The miraculous ability to speak in tongues enabled them to actually speak a language and communicate God’s word in that language. Acts 2:7-8 says, “And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? ⁸And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?” It is clear that they were able to hear their own language being spoken and they were able to understand and comprehend what was being said. That is why they were amazed.

Acts 2:9-11 shows just how many different groups were gathered together and also shows just how diverse the various tongues or languages were being spoken. “Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,¹⁰Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,¹¹Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.” They could clearly comprehend the wonderful works of God by the communication of the apostles on that day. This shows that to speak in tongues is to communicate in an actual language used present day by people groups. If you were given this gift, and could communicate for example in Arabic, and no one there spoke Arabic, and you did not have someone to interpret, then you were to keep silent (I Cor 14). Tongues were for a sign for the unbeliever (I Cor 14:22).

KNOWLEDGE was a miraculous direct knowledge of God’s word and will provided by the Holy Spirit. During the infancy of the kingdom, the followers of Christ did not have the completed written word. Many of the early writing had not yet even been penned. This is why the early church had the temporary gifts of the Holy Spirit to enable the body of Christ to grow and mature until the written word could be finished.

* Excuse the ALL CAPS, but this is the only way in Facebook land you can emphasize something or call attention to it. There is no bold option or italics or even underline. Therefore, you are limited to ALL CAPS.

I Cor 13:8 says that

PROPHECIES will FAIL (done away – ASV, NASB; pass away – ESV; will cease - NIV),
TONGUES will CEASE (will be stilled - NIV,
KNOWLEDGE will VANISH AWAY (done away – ASV, NASB; pass away – ESV, NIV).

Fail, cease, and vanish away in the original Greek language is in the “indicative mood”, which means that these verbs action are statements of fact or actual occurrences, not desires of something to take place, like wishes or desires (potentially). Paul is not saying these are possibilities, he is saying these are facts or actions of reality. They are in the future tense, which is the same as in the English. Paul is saying that the spiritual gifts, all nine of them, not only the three listed, but all nine of them will pass away, cease to exist. However, love will remain.

“…whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.” I Cor 13:8

Paul admits that the vast majority of people were receiving revelation piece-by-piece, part-by-part during his day.

I Cor 13:9 “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.”

Prophecy was in part. However, Paul mentions a time in which this will not be the case. No longer would God’s revelation be in part, but would be complete, full, whole. Paul says, this is in part now, but there will come a time when God’s revelation will not be in part, but whole.

I Cor 13:10 “But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”

Paul gives an illustration similar to the scaffolding. He references a child who acts, speaks, and understands in one way until he reaches maturity as a man. When this takes place, he no longer acts, speaks, thinks, or understands like a child but puts those childish things away. I Cor 13:11 says, “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” When the complete comes, that which is incomplete or in part shall be done away. “Perfect” means complete in verse 10. What perfect thing would come that would replace or take away the incomplete (in part)?

I suggest that this is the completed revelation of God’s will.

What does this all mean? It means that today we no longer have the nine spiritual gifts of I Cor 12:8-10 because they have ceased. This is by God’s design and not man’s interference. Paul provides us with divinely revealed information in I Corinthians. We today have the completed revelation of God’s word. We have no need of modern day revelation from God. Just as I Corinthians 13 teaches us, that which is in part has been done away.

When Paul wrote to the Ephesians, he told them that he received the revelation of God directly. Paul states that he received God’s word or God’s will, God’s mystery, by God revealing it to him directly. However, Paul said, if you want to know the mind of God, the word of God, the will of God, the mystery of God, then you need to read what I, Paul, have written down. He did not tell them to wait for God’s direct revelation. He told them to read what has already been revealed and given by God’s revelation.

Eph 3:3-6 “How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,⁴Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)⁵Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;⁶That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:”

We no longer have those “miraculous spiritual gifts” since God has removed those gifts and given us the “completed revelation” of His divine will.

Regarding those from the end of the 1^st century till the time of the 1500’s -1600’s, they did have the word of God.

We have a limited amount of evidence to support this claim, but it is amazing that we have any evidence at all today considering the amount of time we are distanced from then. For example, the Magdalen Papyrus Fragment contains small portions of the gospel of Matthew. Some date this around 150-175 (Philip Wesley Comfort and David P. Barrett, The Text of the Earliest New Testament Greek Manuscripts (Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House, 2001), pp. 50–53). Others date it around 200 (Colin Roberts, Manuscript, Society, and Belief in Early Christian Egypt pp. 8). Carsten Peter Thiede dates it at 37-70 AD.

Let us consider the writings of Polycarp, who lived from 69 AD to 155 AD. He quotes a portion of or alludes to the following New Testament books and verses that follow:

Matthew 6:13; 7:1-2; 26:14; 5:44

Mark 9:35

Luke 6:20

Acts 2:24; 10:42

Romans 14:10,12

I Corinthians 6:2,9-10; 14:25; 15:58

II Corinthians 4:14; 6:7; 8:21; 10:1

Galatians 1:1; 4:26; 6:7

Ephesians 1:13; 2:5,8-9; 4:26; 6:18

Philippians 2:16; 3:18,21

I Thessalonians 5:22

II Thessalonians 3:15

I Timothy 2:1; 6:7,10

II Timothy 2:12,25; 4:10

Hebrews 6:20; 7:3; 12:28

I Peter 1:8,12,13,21; 2:11, 17, 24; 3:8-9; 4:7

I John 3:8; 4:2-3

III John 1:8

It is hard to believe that this person did not have access to the word of God and still yet is able to produce direct portions of many of the epistles in his own writings.

I do not believe it is a fair statement to say that disciples did not have the epistles until the 1500-1600’s. I believe that simply by looking at Polycarp and his writings, we can see that these writings were extant and in circulation during his day.

There are many, many others as well.

Two Masters

Adam Evans — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 23:08:55 -0600

Gal. 1:10 – “For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.”

Living in the world and not being of the world is a daunting task. The darts that Satan hurls at us in the work force seem unending. Sometimes it is much easier to just give in than it is to stand your ground in times of tribulation and persecution. We must not give in to the world’s demands to be conformed to this world. Rom 12:1-2 helps us see that we are to be different. We are not here to please men on earth, but rather to serve God.

We must be very careful in our careers to not let our drive to move up the ladder compromise our service to the Saviour. We must make the choice to always be a Christian first. Satan is crafty at maneuvering in and out of our lives, especially in our work environment. Our jobs and careers are important, but not more important than our souls.

God bless you in your pursuit of all spiritual blessings in Christ Jesus.
Adam Evans