Dealing with
Tradition and Opposition to Plural Leadership
It is easier to train a new church than to change an established one.
- Existing churches often resist change, especially if they have a long
history of traditions, or have roots in a conventional denominational structure.
- A new work can readily be established on biblical principles of plural
leadership by elders because this is clearly supported in the Acts and Epistles.
- Young believers will quickly observe that there is no support in the NT for
a division between clergy and laity.
- There is no need to argue about church leadership. Scripture is
overwhelmingly in support of a plural leadership of men from the congregation
called "elders."
Practical way to deal with those who are opposed to church leadership by
elders
- Turn to the many NT passages that mention "elders" (plural) of the "church"
(singular). Then ask them to show biblical support for the single clergyman.
- Next note what passages
those who hold the position of a single clergyman (Pastor; Minister)
must use to defend it. This in itself is a powerful argument against
the position
- Read testimonies from those who follow the practice of
having a single clergyman over the church as they describe some of the
weaknesses they have encountered.
- Prayer, humility, patience, are key to
the process. There is no cause for pride, judgmental spirit, unkindness
etc. Remember that for anyone to see these principles requires the
grace of God to open eyes