BIBLES * Bulldogs * & Beards

Disagree, agree, or have a question: Contact us through the contact page on our website; http://www.biblebulldog.com “Two important aspects of pastors: doctrinal competence and authority. That the two are linked is crucial.” Doctrinal competence without authority. What are the consequences of this? Authority without doctrinal competence. Same question. “In order to establish church power within appropriate limits, several things need to be in place:” First, there needs to be a clear understanding of what the church is. It’s stated purpose. Are some church’s purpose confusing to people? Second, there needs to be a statement of the church’s beliefs; a creed or confession of faith. Would this confession describe the message which the church is to preach? Would it limit the church’s power to what is contained within that document? Third, there needs to be a set of procedures that articulate and define how the confession of faith is to be practically applied within the congregation. Paul had to address issues of the abuse of church power. Galatians 5:12-13, the teaching that the Galatians need to be circumcised. “The NT church’s power is delimited by the Gospel.” “We see a similar situation in Colossians 2:16 - Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. Was this connected to a dictatorial church eldership? In these contexts, could confessions be helpful? How else could we create a church community where what is regarded as normal belief and practice is publicly stated in such a fashion: that it expresses biblical teaching, can be challenged and tested in the light of Scripture, and allows both elders and laypeople to know exactly where they stand in relationship to each other? Does a creed or confession guarantee that abuse of power will not take place?