Denominationalism

[Mary]

(11-18-2009 01:38 PM)Strefanash Wrote:  I grew up in church, and have been in many different churches and a large variety of different denominations. One thing that I have found across the board so far, is that each has a hierarchy in place, usually with at least a pastor and or staff on payroll. Most seem to believe that is what is taught in the scriptures. However, as I have compared the teachings of Jesus, to the teachings of some of the disciples and apostles in the bible, their teachings on this issue seem to be quite different than the teachings of Christ Himself.

Strefanash:

Yes, heirarchy is how the carnal take the list of offices in the church.
And it shows their bankruptcy. But I think it is mistake to think that a heirarchy is what St Paul meant.

It is a pity so many here are being sidetracked by your admission as to being homeless. For all I know you choose it, and so be it. I could not do such a thing, being too fearful and insecure.

We who judge you for it are likew those in James who look at the man with the nice clothes and gold ring favourably, but mistreat the poor man (I have no idea how you dress but my point is the assumption of unkemptness on your part that is made is not necessary and even if true their response to it is not godly.

Yes, there was a heirarchy in my old church too. that is how carnal minds deal with people

It isn't about Chris's homelessness it is about:

Hierarchy vs anarchy. ie: the order of control vs the absence of order.

Chris' claim that God called him to homelessness: I have asked for validation of that claim.

The apparent contradictions in Chris's lifestyle if God has called him to homelessness.

The idea that abject poverty makes you the "best" servant of Christ (inverse hierarchy).

The idea that hierarchy is man's idea/way and is "wrong", and that anarchy as the opposite is therefore the better way and thus must be God's way.

Eph chp 1: 17 - 23 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,
Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.

We are instructed to pray for our leaders and to pray for our enemies who "despitefully use us". Sometimes they may be one and the same. If Christ is your "head" how can any power stand against you?