Authority in Christ's Kingdom
In Christ's Kingdom, there is no authority ordained OUTSIDE of each local church. The old school baptists were CRYSTAL CLEAR on this matter; they summarized it in clear and plain words.
1689.26.7-8
7. To each of these churches thus gathered,
according to His mind declared in His Word, He hath given all that power and
authority, which is in any way needful for their carrying on that order in
worship and discipline, which He hath instituted for them to observe; with
commands and rules for the due and right exerting, and executing of that power.
(14) 14. Mt 18:17-18; 1Co 5:4-5; 5:13; 2Co 2:6-8.
8. A particular church, gathered and completely organized according to the mind of Christ, consists of officers and members; and the officers appointed by Christ to be chosen and set apart by the church(so called and gathered), for the peculiar administration of ordinances, and execution of power or duty, which He entrusts them with, or calls them to, to be continued to the end of the world, are bishops or elders, and deacons.(15) 15. Ac 20:17,28; Php 1:1.
Christ Jesus alone is the LORD and KING of each church. Any semblance of authority outside of it - managing, meddling, or mangling her affairs - is USURPATION of the authority of Christ, the sole Head of His church.
Within a church, even the administrators of
Christ's authority are equally subjected to Christ's authority.
Blessedness is
when Christ alone rules and lords over His people; and His people gladly submit
to His rule.
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Ann Atwood Fraley
Pastor Sing, are these shared from your church's Articles of Faith?
Sing F Lau
Ann, Yes.
Bill Taylor
Amen and AMEN!!
