No Clergy In The New Testament
Donald Norbie explains the error of the denominational church organization and government, and shows what is the pattern given us in the New Testament. Church order, including government, is part of apostolic doctrine. We are not free to do as we please. Hebrews 8:5 "See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee..." Today the structure most churches follow is to have a pastor or senior pastor leading the work, supported by a group of deacons or elders. The primary work of preaching and teaching is left to the pastor. The "laymen" are to be generous in giving and faithful in attendance, and to be active in supporting ministries, such as Sunday School. The pastor is viewed as a professional who has had special training and is qualified to teach God's Word. Laymen are not expected to preach to the whole church. And often the pastor is jealous of his position and guards it vigorously, maintaining that laymen are not qualifi...