Doctrine of the Church (Cont.)

Introduction

Matthew 16:18 KJV 1900

18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Body

Review

The Officers, Ministers and Leaders of the Church

Apostles

Apostles were the first ministry gift God gave to the Church

Luke 6:13 “13 And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;”

Acts 16:4 “4 And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.”

Ephesians 2:19-20 “19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;”

Ephesians 4:11-12 “11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:”

APOSTLE - A transliteration of the Greek word apostolos which means “a messenger” or “one sent on a mission.”

The original Apostles were those whom Jesus chose to be with Him. These He personally commissioned and sent forth

Matthew 10:2 “2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;”

Luke 22:14 “14 And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.” (Jesus with them during the last supper)

There were twelve of them altogether

When Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus and later committed suicide, another was chosen to replace him (Acts 1:15-26).

The names of these twelve are written in the twelve foundations of the new Jerusalem

Revelation 21:14 “14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.”

Requirements for Apostleship

Had to have been with the Lord - Acts 1:21-22 “21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.”

Had to have been a witness of the Resurrection - Acts 1:22 “22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.”

Had to have seen the Lord - I Corinthians 9:1 “1 Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?”

Had to have been confirmed by the working of signs and wonders - II Corinthians 12:12 “12 Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.”

The original, foundational Apostles were a fixed number of twelve.

Others were called “apostles” in scripture

Paul

Was given a vision of Jesus and was personally commissioned by Jesus to go to the Gentiles

Romans 11:13 “13 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:”

I Corinthians 9:1 “1 Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?”

Paul himself declared himself to be an apostle on twelve separate occasions.

Barnabas - Acts 14:14 “14 Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,”

Some were claiming to be apostles falsely

II Corinthians 11:13 “13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.”

Revelation 2:2 “2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:”

Originally used of the original twelve, the term “apostle” came to be used in a wider sense for those who had been with Jesus, such as: the seventy, and especially of those who seemed to have a special commission to start new churches.

The term “apostle” and “missionary” have the same meaning.

There is a distinction between the original twelve apostles and the term “apostle” as used of men today

The church can have only one foundation - Ephesians 2:20 “20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;”

“Apostle” as used in its wider sense of course, there are apostles today

Those commissioned by God and specifically gifted to open up new areas for Jesus Christ

Missionaries, both global and home, are considered apostles

When we claim “Apostolic Doctrine” or “Apostolic Authority”, we are referring to the teachings of the original twelve, whom we believe to have special authority from God.

To interpret Christ’s teachings into actionable commands

Took Christ’s teachings during the Last Supper and established the practice of Communion

Matthew 28:19 and Acts 2:38.

To set precedent and doctrine for the church

Showed us how the O.T. was a type and shadow of present realities

We refer to an O.T. and an N.T. because of the Apostles

Establishing the role of Christ as Saviour, Mediator, and High Priest

No one today has the authority to do this

To establish doctrine

To add to scripture

There was no “Apostolic Succession” established in scripture, or by precedent.

That special authority ended with them

They were a part of the foundation that the universal church is built on. That foundation is laid. It’s completed.

Revelation 22:18-19 “18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: 19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”

This applies specifically to the revelation given to John by Jesus on the island of Patmos, but the principle applies to scripture as a whole.

In stating this at the very end of God’s Word, I believe Jesus is stating that our bible is complete. There will be no more adding to, taking away, or establishing doctrine.

Prophets

Ephesians 2:20 “20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;”

Second in rank (if we go by listing) is the prophets.

They were subject to the Apostles - I Corinthians 14:37 “37 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.”

Paul seemed to give the gift of prophesy the highest priority when seeking spiritual gifts - I Corinthians 14:1-3 “1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. 2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. 3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.”

Paul defines what prophesy is

I Corinthians 14:3-4 “3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.”

Acts 15:32 “32 And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.”

Telling the future seems to be a less frequent function of the prophet in the N.T.

Agabus tells of future events on two separate occasions

Acts 11:27-29 “27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. 28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:”

Acts 21:10-12 “10 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus. 11 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles. 12 And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.”

Prophesy instrumental in Timothy’s enablement for ministry - I Timothy 4:14 “14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.”

Peter identified a prophesy told by the prophet Joel during his sermon on Pentecost - Acts 2:17 “17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:”

The gift of prophesy remains in effect today, both in foretelling and in forthtelling.

In much preaching we hear today, the gift of prophesy is being manifest

Evangelists

In the N.T. this office is a bit harder to identify because everyone was involved in the work of evangelism.

In the Greek, the word “evangelist” is derived from the verb that is translated “to preach the gospel”

Philip is the only one actually called an “evangelist” - Acts 21:8 “8 And the next day we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.”

Looking at what scripture says about Philip’s activities in Samaria, an evangelist is one whose ministry is directed primarily toward winning the unsaved - Acts 8:5 “5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.”

When he ministered to the Ethiopian man, Philip was able by the Spirit to show the man that who he was reading about in Isaiah was Jesus. Philip led him through the plan of salvation, baptized him, and was immediately carried away by the Spirit to Azotus, where he proceeded to preach in every city on the way to Caesarea.

It’s interesting to note that Philip’s soul winning ministry was accompanied by miracles and signs.

Timothy is not called an “evangelist” but is exhorted to do the work of an evangelist - II Timothy 4:5 “5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.”

An evangelist then, is one whose chief goal is to preach the Gospel with the object of soul winning.

Pastors

The above three offices were given to the church generally. The remaining offices were given to the local church.

The term “Pastor” as the spiritual leader of the local church is found only once in the N.T. - Ephesians 4:11 “11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;”

Typically they are referred to as “elder”, “overseer”, or “shepherd”

I Peter 5:2-4 “2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.”

Acts 20:28-29 “28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.”

John 21:15-17 “15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. 16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.”

Hebrews 13:20 “20 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,”

I Peter 2:25 “25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.”

Mark 6:34 “34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.”

It’s difficult for us in the west to understand the close and intimate relationship between the Palestinian shepherd and his sheep.

The loving care and mutual trust that should exist between the spiritual leader and his congregation is best exemplified in the term “Pastor”

The dedication that the shepherd should have for the sheep is to the extent of laying down his life for them.

Teachers

Ephesians 4:11 “11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;”

Some would put the offices of pastor and teacher together because of the phrasing used in this verse.

In some contexts however, it seems to be listed as a separate office - Acts 13:1 “1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”

Teaching is listed as a spiritual gift - Romans 12:6-7 “6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;”

In this case it might be exercised by any child of God upon this gift is bestowed.

Paul refers to himself as a teacher - II Timothy 1:11 “11 Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.”

Paul admonishes Timothy to exercise a teaching ministry - II Timothy 2:2 “2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”

Part of the Great Commission - Matthew 28:19-20 “19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

A bishop must be a teacher - I Timothy 3:2 “2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;”

Leaders in the church are instructed to teach - II Timothy 2:24-25 “24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;”

Elders (Presbyters)

This is a term that was borrowed from the synagogue and from the congregation of Israel.

The Hebrew word for “elder” was zaquen which meant “an older man.”

The Greek word presbuteros has the same meaning, and is the source of our word presbyter.

Paul appointed elders after he founded churches in Asia - Acts 14:23 “23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.”

Elders typically filled the role of Pastor, as they had the oversight of the local church

Acts 20:17 “17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.”

Titus 1:5 “5 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:”

I Peter 5:1-4 “1 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: 2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.”

Elders were called for and sought out for prayer - James 5:14-15 “14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.”

Bishops (Overseers)

The KJV translates the Greek word episcopos as “Bishop”. Other translations use the world “Overseer”

From this Greek word we get the English word “Episcopal”

We see the Greek words presbuteros (elder) and episcopos (bishop or overseer) used interchangeably in scripture to describe the same office

Titus 1:5-9 “5 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders [presbuteros] in every city, as I had appointed thee: 6 If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. 7 For a bishop [episcopos] must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; 9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”

Originally the Bishop, or the Overseer, was over one church. It wasn’t until the 2nd century that the bishop or overseer came to be over several churches.

No doubt after the passing of the original twelve Apostles there existed a need for a more extensive organization.

Deacons

The word “deacon” is from the Greek word diakonos which means “servant”

Deacons are mentioned directly in only two passages

Philippians 1:1 “1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:”

I Timothy 3:8-13 “8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. 11 Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.”

Scripture does not delineate the duties of the deacon specifically, but it’s apparent their duties had to do with the management of charities and the business affairs of the churches.

They would serve the church in such a way as to free the elders for prayer and the ministry of the Word

In Acts 6 we read about such an event. The Apostles chose out men to handle the daily ministrations of the church while they would give themselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word.

This is not arrogance, but a prudent division of labor

Does the CEO of McDonald’s travel around and train new hires how to drop fries?

Is this an extremely important thing to know how to do?

Can someone be given oversight of the training of new hires while the CEO takes care of legal and political matters?

Ministers

Interestingly, the Greek word that we translate as “minister” is the same Greek word we use to get “deacon”, but there are a number of passages where the word diakonos cannot refer to the office of the deacon.

I Corinthians 3:5 “5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?”

Ephesians 3:7 “7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.”

Paul refers to himself as a minister five times, and several times refers to his younger workers as ministers

The term is used to emphasize the servanthood role of the spiritual leader.

The goal of the leader is to equip the saints for “ministry”. - Ephesians 4:12 “12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:”

Every child of God is expected to minister (verb), and we all are called to a ministry, but the title of minister (noun) is in every case used in scripture only of those called to spiritual leadership.

Leaders (Rulers)

The words “rule” and “ruler” are used several times in the KJV to designate church leaders

Romans 12:8 “8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”

I Timothy 5:17 “17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.”

Hebrews 13:7 “7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.”

Hebrews 13:17 “17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”

Hebrews 13:24 “24 Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.”

Other translations translate this word as “lead” or “leader”

Conclusion

There are some who seem to want to diminish the role of leadership in the church. Duly constituted and recognized leadership as a biblical teaching is undeniable.

When we submit ourselves to God’s authority it will go well with us

When we rebel and place ourselves outside of God’s chain of command, we are separated from the chain of command, neither under authority or having authority.

God institutes authority in His church according to His will.

If you can’t trust the leader, then please trust God who chose that leader and submit yourselves to them for His sake.