Christian
Fundamentals
Lesson 8: Church Organization
Winter Quarter 2004
Lesson Theme: The purpose of this lesson is to show God’s pattern for how his church should be organized and governed. Scripture is clear that Christ is the head of the church while elders are to watch over the individual flocks and deacons are to serve.
References:
None
·
Who is the head of the Church? – Eph 1:22-23, Col 1:18
·
All churches are coequal under Christ’s kingdom
·
No person, church of group has the authority to change
the pattern or commands.
Elders:
·
Role of the Elder – 1 Peter 5;1-5
o
Shepherd
over God’s flock
o
Willing
o
Not
lording it over – rather an example
·
Qualifications to be an Elder
o
Titus
1:5-9
·
Blameless
·
Husband of one wife
·
Children believe and not wild/disobedient
·
NOT:
overbearing, quick-tempered, given to drunkenness, violent, pursuing
dishonest gain
·
Hold firmly to message and encourage/refute others
o 1 Timothy 3:1-7
· Manage own family well
· Not a recent convert
· Good reputation with outsiders
Deacons:
·
Role of the Deacon – Acts 6:1-6
o
Diakonos-
To run on errands, to wait tables, an attendant
o
Role
is to serve the congregation by taking care of physical needs within the
congregation
·
Qualifications to be a Deacon - 1 Timothy 3:8-13
o
Worthy
of respect
o
Not
much wine
o
Keep
hold of deep truths of the faith
o
Must
be first tested
o
Temperate
and trustworthy wife
o
Husband
of one wife
o
Manage
family well