The Administrative authority of the Ministry
The doctrine of ministerial positions, consistently preached for years, is deemed essential for the saints’ ability to attain perfection. These positions are are allowed by three components based upon biblical principles.
- The authority given by the Godhead: Father God and Jesus the son of God.
- The Ministry of God; Men appointed by the Godhead as leaders off the Jesus church
- The Saints of the Kingdom of God.
- The Godhead, the creators of everything and the source of life, also serve as the judges of creation. They established the Plan of Grace, a plan designed to save and redeem humanity from the curse of death imposed by the Godhead due to the disobedience of Adam and Eve, the progenitors of mankind.
Act 17:29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.
1Co 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.
The Ministry of God comprises men chosen by the divine to deliver and guide the Saints of the Kingdom of God towards comprehending and grasping the decrees and desires of the divine. Their primary responsibility lies in the precise handling of Scripture and the dissemination of sound doctrine.
1Ti 3:2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given tohospitality, apt to teach;
Tit 1:9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
2Ti 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
1Ti 4:13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
The KJV text places the "work of the ministry" as the responsibility of the pastors and teachers given as gifts to the church.
Eph 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
Eph 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Eph 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
These gifts are given by and through the Holy Ghost:
1Co 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
1Co 12:8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
1Co 12:9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
1Co 12:10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
1Co 12:11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
Given these gifts, it has become the ministry’s duty to care for and govern the Kingdom of God in Christ’s stead. As the “Ambassadors” of the Body of Christ, empowered by Christ, they are entrusted with the authority to govern and pursue all things for the edification of the saints, just as Christ does. This authority is affirmed by the phrase “we pray you in Christ’s stead,” found in 2 Corinthians 5:19-20.
2 Corinthians 5:19
To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
2 Corinthians 5:20
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
God, with His infinite wisdom and knowledge, foresaw the imaginations of men and the need for clear guidance. He established the law governing mankind and entrusted it to be written and preserved within the sacred words of God, known as the Bible. God has entrusted His word to be taught by the ministry to the saints of the kingdom of God. Both the saints and the ministry must diligently follow, practice, and fulfill the word of God to the extent of the fullness of Christ.
3. The Saints of the Kingdom of God are nonbelievers who have chosen to believe in the Godhead by faith. They hail from diverse backgrounds and nations, irrespective of gender. They have chosen to believe in the promise of a better life by following the teachings they’ve heard about the Godhead and surrendering their wills to the word of God.
Mat 11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Heb 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
The Authority of the Saints
The concept of a governing ministry within the kingdom of God is controversial simply because of human nature’s inclination to do its own will. This issue is not only relevant to governing saints but also to governing the ministry itself. Internal problems within the ministry can arise from various factors, such as disputes over church territory, disagreements about ministerial positions, conflicts when saints leave one church to join another, influence-peddling, and discrepancies in scriptural interpretation.
This discussion will focus on the role of the saints in addressing problems within a church, whether those problems involve an honest or dishonest minister.
Currently, the ministry teaches that saints of God lack biblical authority to judge a minister within the Body of Christ. Consequently, saints are instructed to refrain from challenging the ministry on any grounds, leaving judgment to the ministry for recourse or accountability.
However, accusations can have repercussions within the churches. Accusations are an exception to this rule for the ministry. If an accusation is made against a minister, it must be brought to the ministers, who are the elders of the ministry.
These elders meticulously investigate the accusations and evaluate their validity. Depending on the nature of the accusation, they may deliberate among themselves and act as representatives of the ministry. The parties involved can either accept the decision or request a review by the entire assembly of ministers, hoping for a more favorable outcome.
Ministers are accountable to one another through group consensus, provided that each minister agrees to it. During the review, the ministry can question the accused minister about any unacceptable behavior and may investigate or take action to address the situation.
The ministry’s judgment on the situation could be advantageous or disadvantageous for either party. The minister being judged may or may not accept the judgment, and both parties face inherent consequences for accepting or rejecting the decree. The minister’s church will definitely suffer consequences regardless of the outcome.
If the minister is found guilty of serious offenses, the judgments are straightforward, and the ministry would rule in the majority. The ministry would consider and incorporate the consensus of the saints of the minister’s church. The judgment could be delivered in various ways, including the minister’s disfellowship from the Body of Christ.
The Bible advises that a saint should heed the ministry’s counsel and adhere to its instructions. This belief holds that obedience is essential for salvation, and that eternal salvation can only be achieved through submission to the ministry.
However, there have been and continue to be some saints who have challenged the ministry regarding submission. The challenge arises from the misinterpretation of or misuse of the term submission and servitude, which has been transformed into unquestioning subservience and obedience to whatever a minister decides or commands.
The bible teaches subservient behavior, Jesus commanded us to serve him and his father in Luke 4:8 & John 12:26;
Luke 4:8 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
John 12:26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
The above is again referenced back to the scripture, which states that the ministry is acting or doing all things by the guidance of Jesus and their position of being in Christ's stead; 2 Corinthians 5:20
2 Corinthians 5:20
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
The reasoning and teaching are that if the ministry is indeed acting in Christ’s stead, then the saints should serve them as they would and do Christ Jesus. When the ministry shares the message of reconciliation, it is as if God Himself is appealing to them. The verse urges people to accept the reconciliation with God that Christ made possible, emphasizing that the request comes directly from Christ’s own authority and desire. This teaching is also strengthened by Paul to the Hebrews:
Hebrews 13:17 – "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account."
This doctrine was started in the very beginning of the movement called the Body of Christ, taught by our founder, Bro. William Sowders is being taught today. Currently, these beliefs are disseminated and granted authority by the ministry. However, since the ministry governs saints, there are underlying issues, agendas, and open discussions regarding biblical discrepancies that raise questions about its authority.
Over time, the ongoing discourse, it became evident that creating dependence was essential to enhance the ministry’s influence over God’s saints. Through spiritual guidance or sheer necessity, the ministry’s leadership established its authority through biblical scripture. A doctrine was necessary to control the saints, or at least make them dependent on the ministry to make the ministry more profound.
The doctrine of the Five-Fold Ministry
The ministry established a doctrine known as the Five-fold Ministry early on, based on the teachings of Bro. William Sowders.
Given the crucial importance of the Five-Fold ministry’s survival, its primary purpose became the establishment of the Restored Church. This necessity gave rise to another fundamental principle: the ministry would be entirely free from sin, with all its gifts functioning seamlessly and without any internal contradictions based on biblical teachings.
The possession of these positions and the absence of biblical divergences would serve as compelling evidence of the ministry’s divine authority. With that divine authority, the ministry would be able to teach a gospel that would enable the saints to become like Jesus.
Albeit this assertion also deviates from biblical principles.
The Doctrine of the Five-Fold Ministry, once established, is now considered unchallengeable. It asserts that a ministry, possessing all its inherent gifts, must be established and entrusted to individuals or qualified ministers before a restored and perfected church can be created or regain the status of the early church. However, it’s important to note that this doctrine lacks biblical support.
The biblical concept revolves around the emergence of a church that ventures into the wilderness. This church emerges from the wilderness to become a discernible presence, no longer concealed by the earth. Simultaneously, Satan engages in conflict with the remnants of the early church, who exhibit exceptional conduct and are poised to attain perfection.
Revelation 12:17
And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Observe the lingering commandment to “keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.”
Revelation 1:1-2
The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.
Revelation 1:9
I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 1:4-7
I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:
During the early reign church, the Bible was not available. Consequently, the teachings of the Apostles, prophets, and teachers were not as readily accessible as they are in our current dispensation. This fundamental difference between the early reign and the latter reign church significantly distinguishes our dispensation from the early reign church.
The early church did not share its positions with the later church, primarily due to the significant temporal difference of 4,000 years. The early church established the positions and their purpose. It serves as an example and resource for the later church, providing the foundation upon which the latter church can build. The ministry of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers was established and is now shared with the latter church, along with all the gifts of God. The distinction between the early and later churches lies in the necessity of these positions.
Additionally, other distinctions arise from contemporary historical, geographical, societal, and technological advancements. The body of Christ has a well-established history of apostles, evangelists, prophets, pastors, and teachers from whom we can draw upon their teachings and gifts to provide the faith and knowledge necessary for saints to attain perfection. While the geological conditions of the time have changed, we have the geological records of the Old and New Testaments to draw analogies and gain wisdom. Of course, society has undergone numerous transformations, but the Bible enables us to recognize the comparisons required to establish truth. Technological advancements have occurred, but we can draw upon the early church society to recognize that while everything is subject to change, certain principles remain constant.
Eph 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
Eph 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
This statement was made about the early reign church, not the latter reign church. However, it was intended for the church as a whole, the combined church of both eras, the whole Body of Christ. The Body was created and endowed with all the attributes necessary for the establishment of Jesus’ Church. These positions were bestowed upon the nations and their peoples as a sign to recognize the one true body of Christ. These positions and miracles were disseminated from person to person until all the world had access to the work and word of God.
These positions were provided as needed to all the saints (and he did give some). The “some” mentioned are the saints, specifically those who were given the positions to establish a ministry. These positions were given to saints who would become apostles or teachers, and they were necessary for the saints to achieve their perfection, not for the ministers.
When Jesus established his church, there were no apostles or any positions given to his ministry. The outcome of the 11 disciples’ mission had not been predetermined or achieved before Jesus completed his salvific work in Israel. The Holy Spirit (the Comforter) had not yet descended, and no apostleship had been conferred. This fact is clearly stated in the entire chapter of Matthew 17.
John 17:11 (KJV) 11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.
Initially, they were without positions and lacked unity. However, after the Holy Spirit descended upon them, they underwent a profound transformation. Their unwavering faithfulness had been demonstrated, leading to their selection as more enlightened and chosen disciples, and the addition of another apostle. Nevertheless, they were deeply shaken by the sight of Jesus’ crucifixion.
1 Corinthians 3:6-7 (KJV) 6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.
The provided scripture delineates the roles, authority, and divine mandate bestowed upon the disciples for the benevolent purposes of God’s kingdom, specifically the establishment of His church and the sanctification of His saints.
Following his resurrection, Jesus ascended to his divine throne and sent the Holy Spirit as a source of comfort and power. This divine power had the ability to influence spiritual matters when necessary for God’s ultimate purpose, which was the salvation of humanity.
The key aspect of this sending was the urgent need for the kingdom of God. The essence of the ministry does not require gifts, titles, or positions of authority.
Throughout history, the ministry has always been entrusted to the people’s need for leadership in Christ.
Historically and currently, when a pastor was needed, God typically fulfilled that need.
The necessity for the position of pastor was also met by the need for a teacher. As evidenced by the Bible, the positions established by God for His church can be combined and utilized by ordained men of God. These positions have consistently been regulated to fulfill God’s purposes.
The need has also been regulated to facilitate spiritual transformation among the people, rather than to enhance their material or natural well-being.
Similarly, no one has ever been a firstfruits, except for Jesus. Therefore, it is incorrect to conclude that the Ministry is a firstfruits before anyone else can attain perfection, enter into the Bride of Christ, or be in the Bride of Christ.
This premise suggests that the ministry, as part of the firstfruits, supports the existence of a ruling class of ministers who are considered part of the Godhead. This ruling class is believed to be rooted in an inherent desire for power and authority. The premise also posits the necessity of recognition through confirmation, which would be demonstrated by a unified ministerial convergence of churches. This convergence would affirm the acceptance of the sole and authentic Body of Christ.
Within the doctrine of ministerial positions, these gifts have become an integral part of the Restoration of the Church of Christ.
However, the Bible doesn’t explicitly promise positions as a sign of the latter-day church’s restoration. It also doesn’t state that these positions are given to demonstrate a restored ministry or establish an authoritative posture.
The doctrine of ministerial positions has been consistently preached for many years and is considered essential for the saints’ ability to attain perfection. However, the truth is that the ministry was never intended to serve as a benchmark for perfection. Instead, it was created to assist saints of Christ Jesus’ church in achieving their full potential.
Despite the lack of substantial refutation, this doctrine has gained widespread acceptance among many respected ministers, solidifying its status as an authoritative teaching within the churches of the Body of Christ.
What Needs To Be None
What remains is the question of what actions are necessary to rectify this issue.
Maybe the real issue that should be considered is: do we really have an issue?
Since God remains on the throne and holds the fate of the Body of Christ and all mankind in His hands, any event that occurs is acknowledged by Him as He deems fit.
So far, God appears content with the current teachings of the Body of Christ and is willing to allow these doctrines of diversity to be preached wholeheartedly among the saints of God.
We are still governed by a democratic ministry that allows men’s reasoning to govern and establish order, which appears to agree with the divine at this time.
While the ministry appears to prioritize its own perfection and authority, God is diligently working on the most crucial aspects of His plan of grace. This essential aspect is the completion of the Bride of Christ with those saints who triumph over the world.
Fire Baptism is the sole means to conquer the world within ourselves, the ministry, and its challenges, and diverse teachings are integral to this accomplishment.
We have been given the choice and the final decision to follow our decision-making process and choose the right path to achieve perfection and become an overcomer.
The diverse teachings within the Body of Christ have become an integral part of the testing and trials we encounter. Through our free will, we make the right choice to follow the path towards perfection. We must and are obligated to do the will of God and follow his commandments without fail. We must listen to the teachings of the ministry, work out our salvation, and decide to follow their guidance.
Ultimately, we must determine whether the preacher we listen to and learn from is teaching the truth. If the truth is being taught and you are diligently following the directions given, you should be aware of transforming into the new man or an overcomer. If you are not changing, you need to reevaluate yourself and your minister.
Unfortunately, we must rely on time and chance to determine whether our choices are correct.
