Philippians 1:1-2
Introduction:
1. Though unlike any other, the body of Christ is an “organization” by definition; an organized body of people with a particular purpose (Webster).
2. As such, it must have a system of governance to function as intended.
3. We will overview the structure today and flesh out some specifics next week.
Discussion:
I. The Head of the Body
A. Every “organization” must have a head that determines the body’s function.
B. Christ is the church’s only head (Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:15-16; 5:23; Colossians 1:18; 2:10, 19).
II. The Subordinates
A. Christ delegated the church’s work to four subordinate groups of people.
1. Elders (Acts 20:17, 28-31; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 1 Peter 5:1-4)
2. Deacons (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:8-13)
3. Evangelists (Ephesians 4:11; 1 Timothy 4:12-16; 2 Timothy 4:1-4)
4. The saints (Ephesians 4:12; Philippians 1:1).
B. All four groups submit to His headship in all matters of faith and practice (Ephesians 1:22-23).
III. The Power of His Design
A. Never underestimate our destructive potential when we ignore God’s way to follow ours.
B. Ephesians 4:11-16 speaks to the power of doing things His way.
C. Functioning as He intended it, His church will grow and thrive in this broken-down world.
Conclusion:
1. The NT pattern is quite different than what we see in the denominational world.
2. Some have one person in control (e.g. Pope, king/queen of England) while others have overarching groups (conventions, councils, etc.) or even rule by popular vote.
3. His special people must reject every humanly devised form of church government/organization and follow His headship as prescribed in His will.