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.
He 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 the 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.
He 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 the 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.
