-- Gold Fever Rush for a 'Title' :

¶ How greatly today has the qualification of a 'pastor' widened with even pastor's wives being entitled and referred to as 'pastor'. This is a widespread trend particularly among Pentecostal/Charismatic Churches and Tele-evangelist organisations. It is almost at gold fever rush momentum! If it wasn't so sad, humour could tend to accompany such developments. The hair raising issue is that a woman (according to the Word of God) is not to 'shepherd' the Church. An elder/ pastor/bishop of a Church is to be "apt to teach" and a woman is not permitted to teach doctrine or 'shepherd' the Church. "But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence". [1 Tim.' 2:12.]

Aside Thought :

¶ Paul in Titus` 2:3-4 gives the encouragement for aged women to be "teachers of good things" and "Teach the young women" . There is much value in considering the benefit of any sister, (if they fill the pre-requisite of the previous verses in Titus` chapter 2) to teach the young women the many blessings of knowing Christ more and the "good things" from the Lord that belong to women that keep themselves in the will of God. This is not making available for a woman to shepherd the Church or teach the Church, overriding the ministering men of God in the Church; but is making allowance for a special "close up encounter" ministry of  comfort and encouragement for women in their various roles and needs in all the generality of life.

A woman taking the pastor 'title' is misleading and a very serious error that disqualifies complicit men from the very ministry they are seeking to uphold.

A woman being a Shepherd/Bishop/Elder/Pastor in the local Church would be according to Scripture if she (according to the Word of God) is able to be "the husband of one wife" ! [1 Timothy' 3:2.] And as in the previous verse - be a man - ".... If a man desireth the office of a Bishop, he desireth a good work" [1 Timothy' 3:1.] For a woman to thus qualify as "a man" and as "the husband of one wife", presents a preposterous notion. For a man to endow himself with such a title is presumption toward a noted hierarchy position, whether in ignorance or with knowledge that it is contrary to the Word of God. And for a woman to so endow herself with such a title, and also claim such an office in the Church is a double contradiction.

--- Titled Men Not Born Again Behind the Pulpits :

¶ Spiritual pride and clamouring for honour amongst the crowd is a serious disease in the World and fast developing in the Church today. Men who are not called of God and have not the credentials and evidence of the Lord's work done through them, fancy to ride in on the work of others and position themselves through the results of study at some seminary.They then graduate with the title of 'Pastor' or 'Reverend', and mind you, these qualifications are attained through study of words and doctrines that can be cultivated by anyone, even a non spiritual, works motivated Church goer who may aspire to be someone among the religious.

--- Dangerous Criteria :

¶ When you have such criteria for the introduction of a man among the people of God and this introduction is on the basis of a 'title' gained by academic study instead of the work of God through that person issuing out in spiritual fruit, you have a most dangerous outcome. This is the reason why there is developing so many infamous statements these days coming from men of the cloth (so called ministers of God) who through intellectual seminary corridors have got into Church institutions that house the true body of Christ. We are not talking here of speculation but of modern present day fact.

--- Titled Seminary Graduates degenerate to Anti-Christ Theology :

¶ How is it that a man can go through a good(?) theological college with flying colours, be given a post among the true people of God and before long he is on a terrible self made slide into antichrist theology? The reason is because it should never have been a college degree qualification that got him into a Church post as a minister of God in the first place!

How easy it can be to not come by the 'door' to the sheepfold. This door is Christ and when a man comes by that door (Christ) he comes with the credentials of fruit and is proved by living spiritual works of God through him. These spiritual works are proved to be of God with the evidence of Christ increasing in the lives of others. It is readily understood how the sad development of an apostate minister can happen, and it can happen even in innocence. A man not 'Born Again' but with a desire from an awakened conscience, may think that he can be cleared of a guilty life by serving God in some way; he then decides to enter a Church theological seminary to do this. He gets the 'job' with a good return of "filthy lucre" and so he spawns 'death' among God's people leaving them spiritually robbed and spoiled. The Lord's people so irritated, are motivated to defend the faith against an apostate appointed minister by their own Church, who has official power (not from God) to be unmoved and continue to trouble them with a false Gospel and heretical doctrine.

---The Blight of Wheat under Tares in Christendom :

¶ We all know that this (spirit of Antichrist) state of affairs exists today and congregations on mass have broken away from main line denominational Churches (one denomination in particular) because of such dire straits.

It could be said that..... "We are told from scripture, that the tares and wheat must be allowed to grow together". [Matt.' 13: 24-30.] But that doesn't mean that the tares run the Church! And if they do what is the wheat doing under the authority and direction of the tares and not under Christ? Yes the Lord gave the parable of the wheat and the tares with the instruction that they will be separated from the wheat at judgment. In the parable the servants had the power to uproot the tares. How sad that today the tares dictate to the wheat and the wheat are powerless to bring things under Christ and the will of God. A Church that is under the persuasion of tares (imitation Christianity) should be abandoned. The only position that the wheat should be in is the true happening (of the parable), that there can exist among true believers those who according to the parable of the ten virgins don't have a true experience of the new birth and don't have "oil (the Holy Spirit) with them". Praise the Lord that, those who are impressed with the claims of Christianity and who put on the exterior of being a Christian often find the Grace of God in truth and find the true rejoicing in Jesus Christ and his great salvation. We must "AWAKE" if we are in any position where the "tares" oppress or suffocate the "wheat" in the function of Church life.
"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness"? [ 2 Corinthians' 6:14.]

Paul said - "awake thou that sleepest and arise from the dead and Christ shall give thee light" [Eph.' 5:14.] The "tares" in the parable are 'allowed' by the servants authority (under the direction of their Lord) to remain growing alongside the "wheat" and not the other way round!

--- Tares Thrive in the Professional Church Institution :

¶ The professionalism of Churches and Ministers throws the door wide open to the World to come in with 'professional' qualifications that opens up the Church to what is of man and imitation (tares) Christianity with all the subtle motions that disqualify God and so the Church becomes a chasm of death instead of a river of Life. Jesus said ... "you have made the Word of God of none effect by your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye." [Mark' 7:13.] If in any form a Church makes the Word of none effect, then it in turn becomes ineffective in proportion to its spiritual void of the Word of God. If for example the minister of a Church is a highly religious, non-spiritual man, and not born again and the various 'offices' of secretary and treasurer etc are also not saved, then such a Church's incapacity to be a spiritual blessing by the power of God is huge, even though there may be a number of true believers in that Church. How is it that a person can have the position of 'Church secretary' and not be 'born again'? Very simple; it follows on very easily with the 'professional' approach, that if a certain person is a 'Church goer' and is the mayor's secretary in a given city, then such a person would be ideal as the Church secretary. The 'ideal' is flawed if that person is not 'born again'. This scenario is repeated again and again in the institutionalized Church that is ordered after the traditions of men. Nehemiah appointed treasurers over the treasuries in the rebuilding of the temple and those men were proven to be "faithful ". According to the full expression of this word "faithful " in the Hebrew, these treasurers had a 'nursing' attitude toward the people of God and the Work of the Lord. [Neh.' 13:13 .] They were not appointed on the basis of a 'professional' qualification but were appointed on the basis of spiritual qualifications and capacity. Their classified spiritual qualifications were - Shelemiah was a priest, Zadok was a scribe and the rest were of the tribe of Levi. The tribe of Levi were a chosen tribe to minister unto the Lord. Whatever other qualifications they had we are not told. Their spiritual qualifications were of a very high order not only in the heritage of tribe and family position but also in proved spiritual ministry and faithfulness. The New Testament appointment equivalent would be men that are either elders or deacons in the Church.

--- The Fate of Courage in Apostasy !

¶ There is so much in these "last days" [2 Tim.' 3:1.] swirling around in the (imitation) Church mixed up with true believers (the true Church, the body of Christ) that can be classified as "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof from such turn away" [2 Timothy' 3:5.] What is really happening when a true believer, (who, as the minister/pastor in a Church) is turned away (sacked) by the apostate representative body in the Church? It is the opposite of what the Word of God says should happen. That which is spiritual should turn away from that which is not and not the other way round. If the "tares" have power over true believers then whatever Church(?) a true believer may be in, (and it doesn't matter what the heritage of that particular Church may be) it is high time to "come out from among them and be ye separate saith the Lord ..." [2 Cor.' 6:17.] How many times today has there been such trouble among the saints with the sad result of a minister being charged with over indulgence in preaching Gospel truth and emphasizing the urgent call to faith in Christ? And as a consequence has been asked (by an apostate diaconate) to move on to another post somewhere with another Church. There is too much room (in the institutionalised Church) for the traditions of man instead of the Word of God. This room for the natural man makes it so comfortable for the unregenerate to feel acceptably employed among the truly saved. And in this employment climb the ladder of self righteousness and authority in the Church and presume to oust a godly minister with the charge that he is too intensely spiritual with pro-active Bible preaching.

***Continued at 2b. **

***2b Continued***

--- The Essence of a 'Professional Church' :

¶ A Church that seeks the professional polish of professional people will soon degenerate into the control of worldly wisdom with such strategies as Church 'marketing' and an approach to many other issues that is not accompanied by faith but is accompanied by 'good works' and fair speeches.

Christ is not a professionally paid Saviour. He was known as a carpenter and obviously one with a good 'professional' reputation at that. In the World of vocational credibility and professionalism he ranked no doubt at the top but in the realm of spiritual credibility in the World (according to the Pharisees) he ranked at -"... Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet". [John' 7:52.] Right through, even to the horrors of the cross, Jesus "made himself of no reputation" [Phil.' 2:7.] when he could have proved his right of a reputation beyond their wildest dreams!

The full Greek transliteration of the phrase "made himself of no reputation" means ... " To make empty, i.e. (figurative) to abase, neutralize, falsify:- Rendered in other places in the KJV Bible as - make (of none effect, of no reputation, void), be in vain. [Strong's Greek dictionary] In the amplified Bible the rendering is - "But stripped Himself [of all privileges and rightful dignity] so as to assume the guise of a servant (slave) ...." .

The 'model' of a 'professional' Church is ... the pastor is "the man" (or "woman"). Preaching is his (her) job and passion. The pulpit is his (her) privilege. The people's role is the provision and fulfilment of all that makes for a 'trendy' Church with a high profile and Salary package that can attract a high profile 'pastor' to fit the professional position of the Church! Why would not a moral non spiritual man (who has a lot to say) not aspire for such a hobby or career with such a good outcome? Such an outcome that can elevate him in the community and also offer him the prestige of all that comes with a professional job and good monetary gain! Why, if he is successful at charming the people, his popularity would grow, the numbers would swell and there would be admiration from all around! We should not be mistaken that there are many unsaved men behind pulpits preaching to those who are spiritually asleep. Also there are unsaved men behind pulpits in Churches wherein are contained the truly saved. Much of this bloated works of man is due to the doors of opportunity opened wide to professionalism in Christendom and among the true people of God!

--- Some Questions that must be Asked :

¶ As a Christian, it is in the realm of honourable and normal to desire a job in this World that has a reasonable annual pay. But, should a Christian look at the position of being a minister in a Church, to be that of a "job" suitable and desirable as an occupation with a good remuneration? Servants of God are involved in His work and according to Moses' prayer God may also require that they do some work with their hands! [Psalm' 90:16-17. ] Does the Church have an "Employment Agency" department to fill the needed ministries in a Church? Are the qualifications required to validate ministry in the Church to be that of academic achievement in Biblical studies? Paul said that "knowledge puffeth up ...." [1 Cor.' 8:1.] Is it God's way for a Church committee to scout the Kingdom of God for a suitable candidate minister, offering a job description and suitable 'pay' to the approved man? How much guesswork is involved in the 'hire' of a man hardly known? How could one be suitable as a shepherd when there is no knowledge of the flock? Didn't Jesus say the sheep will have difficulty following a stranger because they know not his voice? [John' 10:5.] When God plants a Church in a locality would he neglect the need and provision of shepherds in the midst to feed the flock? Wouldn't brothers who are taught of the Lord in the midst of a Church and love the saints be highly regarded and equipped to shepherd that flock of God's people? Would they not be well known and have real and very close knowledge of the needs of the saints thus making their qualification and approval to be tangible and sound?

There cannot be found in the Word of God or the New Testament work of God, any trace of a system of professional paid ministry that is hired outside the local assembly and replaced add hock to suit the criteria estimations of a Church governing council or committee. Such control and government of a Church is 'man management' and not the 'headship' of Christ over the Church and not the Word of God. The apostles gave counsel to the early Church at Jerusalem in the matter of appointing Deacons, to - " Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business". [Acts 6:3.] The deacons were to be appointed from "among you", so how much more the importance that 'Bishops' in the local assembly be appointed "from among " the believers that gather together in that local Church. If in the practical area of "serving tables" it is important for Deacons to be locally appointed with a true relative knowledge and accurate and applicable ministry to meet needs, how much more is the need for the appointment of the Bishops/Pastors to be "from among" the local saints who seek to 'oversee' with a relative knowledge and understanding of spiritual needs in the Church. How true we know, is the lopsidedness of someone coming in on a conversation and giving advice about issues and circumstances of which they have no knowledge. Such is the dilema of a hired pastor from afar, seeking to 'oversee' and shepherd the saints with multitudes of needs, of which he has no relative knowledge and understanding. How wonderful, simple and spiritually strong is the work of the Lord that He seeks to do among his people.

--- The Desired Essence of a Local Church :

¶ When the World faces a man presenting himself in robes of dignity and titles of grandeur; what are the possible connotations that could come to the minds of people so subjected?

The following could be the sad outcome:- "His special religious education has made him like that but don't expect that I can or will follow this type of life". "He's qualified in religion just like I'm qualified as a mechanic; O well each to his own". "He is different to normal people, I wouldn't like to have to live or alter my life like that to be a Christian".

The (old testament) tabernacle of God's design in the wilderness journey of the children of Israel was covered with a final covering of badger skins so that to the outside World, this mighty God of Israel who is the great "I Am" was an 'approachable' God, not so high and mighty that he was unapproachable. Not a startling presentation that gave a foreboding and unreachable impression. But a God who had respect to the ordinary. This was Christ who humbled himself and became an ordinary man according to the flesh but was "God (inwardly and mightily) manifest in the flesh". [1 Timothy' 3:1 6.] This picture of Christ and the tabernacle is to be the picture of the Church in the World. Nothing Worldly or matching the World but approachable in an inviting way, " easy to be entreated full of mercy and good fruits". [James' 3:17.] The outward appearance of heathen religion is prominent and imposing, grand and very showy. The tabernacle on the outside was 'mild' and comely and yet on the inside there was a revelation of exquisite beauty and glory. This is to be the open comeliness of the Church. The essence of a Christian on the inside should be intensely spiritual and so should be the Church.

--- The Kingdom of God is Intensely Spiritual :

¶ If the Church should be fully defined as 'spiritual' in essence because the Word declares that "God is a Spirit"; what is then the nature of the various 'offices' or ministries in the local Church? Paul endeavours to get the Church at Colossi free from the contamination "rudiments" of the World. [Col.' 2:8 .] He warns them that they could be spoiled through being shifted onto Worldly foundations of operation instead of operating from the foundation of Christ and the Spirit. The World incorporates itself in legal accountability to government authority in running it's organizations. Should a Church order things in the same fashion? Turning the Church into an institution should be avoided. For a Church to gain the benefit of 'Tax exempt' it has to become 'incorporated' body and linked to the World for a benefit. Should the Church seek benefit from the World and be linked to any government permissions and control?

To become incorporated means members, treasurer, secretary, periodic committee meetings, the keeping of minutes and many other time consuming duties that are imposed by governments in keeping with the law 'governing' incorporated bodies. The Church needs to keep the laws of society but not voluntarily 'yoked' to the World in its administration of money, property and practical external associated needs. It is correct for governments to so demand if the Church wants to run its affairs like a business. The laws governing Worldly incorporated businesses are necessary for the protection of the people so involved with such organisations, but what is the Church doing running it's affairs like the World?

Did Jesus have a committee and seek affiliation with Pilate to run his organisation? Is there a 'divine minutes' book of all the deliberations of how money was spent and a record of tabled reports to the people to furnish accountability of running His business? Jesus had no organisational headquarters, no office or administration staff. No high paid CEO to run his campaigns. Jesus didn't have a treasurer but a disciple looked after the money ... "Judas had the bag ..." [John' 13:29.] and that was a very casual arrangement. So casual it seems, was the selection of Judas, for he was called a thief! [John' 12:6.] In very reality, Jesus put little importance upon the practical issue of the financial viability of His ministry; The financial viability would be carried by the envelopment of the power of the Kingdom of God. How much in this modern day is there emphasis upon the matter of organisation, committee meetings, finance, property values and administration and such like. Also what devastating results occur with Church meltdowns and the ensuing conflicts over land and property that end up in legal battles in the world's courts! The warnings of Paul in Colossians chapter 2 of the saints being "spoiled" firstly by the "rudiments" of the World and then secondly he mentions "the flesh" in verse 11 which is an automatic governing principle when as individuals or collectively we voluntarily follow the World or that which is not "after Christ". The word "rudiments" means "something orderly in arrangement [Strong's Greek & Hebrew Dictionary.] If the Church is run after the 'arrangement' of the World after the "traditions" of men then there is room for the "flesh" of man to operate and where the flesh of man operates there is pride of position, pride of management - "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world". [1 John' 2:16.] These areas of Church care are not easy to manage and the need is to seek that answer of wisdom from above which is void of earthly wisdom which the Word says is sensual and devilish! [James' 3:15.]

We can be sure that when the Church adopts the grandeur of the World in its processes, then there is an immediate falling in line on the parade ground of the devil and as Paul warned the Church at Colossi - they would be "spoiled". We should not underestimate the seemingly near zero effect of Worldly traditional management of practical issues in the Church. We do well to take note that it is the "little foxes that spoil the vine" ! [Song of Songs' 2:15.] Paul for two years had his own hired house in which he ministered and preached the Word to all that came to him.

"And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him". [Acts' 28:30 .]

Jesus Loves You!

G od Bless .

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