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Bible Study -
Bible Study
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Contributed by Phil Spadaro
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Tuesday, 09 January 2007 |
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Page 6 of 6 Conclusion
It is necessary for us to speak where the Bible is silent. We do it all the time. It is also necessary to realize we are not compelled to speak where the Bible is silent, it merely a freedom we can explore. We must be careful not to overextend the freedom God has provided and make binding in perpetuity what the scriptures do not define. Rather, let us limit the extent of our decisions over matter of opinion and silence and remember it is to serve man and not for man to serve the decision.
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Leadership
Written by Alan on 2007-01-09 10:02:58
Great post!
On the topic of leadership authority, I think there are limits. Paul told Timothy "Command and teach THESE THINGS." (1 Tim 4:11, 5:7) He didn't authorize him to make stuff up. I think leaders have the authority to make the final decision where a choice must be made between several biblically sound options. But I don't think leaders have the right to add rules that God didn't establish (Mark 7:7) IMO, an example of an unauthorized rule would be mandated discipling partners. Leaders certainly can command and teach the biblical one-another passages. But the individual Christians should be given all the freedom that God gives in his Word. There are many ways to fulfill those scriptures, and there is no reason that everyone in a congregation should have to do it the same way. | Re: Leadership
Written by pspadaro on 2007-01-09 11:54:21
Alan,
I see the boundary of leadership where;
1. It contravenes the bible
2. It violates someone's conscience (not just someone using it as an excuse)
3. It's unreasonable (once again, not an excuse)
But I do believe if you are going to place membership at a congregation, you are submitting to the authority of the leadership in that church. "The Model Church" by G.C. Brewer addresses this issue. Certainly there are limits to what leadership can and cannot decide, but I see God as allowing a great deal of latitude for members and leaders alike.
As always, the key elements are humility and love. Without these - Failure. With these - success!
Sincerely,
Phil | Re: Leadership
Written by Alan on 2007-01-10 06:13:11
I do think that members are obligated to submit to leaders as long as they remain with a congregation, even when leaders go beyond their authorization (as long as the followers are not called to violate scripture or their own consciences). But I don't think leaders are authorized to make their own rules. Jesus said that when people teach as doctrine the rules of men, their worship is in vain. | Discipling Partners
Written by hapizzez on 2007-01-11 04:59:34
I think Discipling Partners are a great fear for many. When given a choice I feel most would people would choose not to share themselves with others. Human nature does not desire to be told what to do. Even a little suggestion may not be received well. Example: “Please be on time” can feel like a rebuke. But a bigger Bible truth is “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
When the Bible is silent are faith is tested, because we must put into practice what we learned. We are a new creation and our actions, as such, should resonate in way we live our changed lives. We will put to death our sinful nature and that which is comfortable.
-Jef
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 09 January 2007 )
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Bible Study 
