Cheryl Schatz

Frank,
Wonderful words!

the elders are to lay hands on these people as an act of recognition and blessing upon them as ministers of Christ, called by him and having his power and authority to carry on this ministry

The ministry of those gifted by God should not be a threat to pastors and elders. Instead they should openly recognize God’s gifting and bless those who desire to serve the body with their gifts. Too many leaders in churches today think that allowing people to serve depends on people being “yes men” who will not challenge the pastor so these types of leaders withhold the ability to serve at their own discretion. In this way “service” becomes political games and fear of being shut out causes some to be silent when a leader should be rebuked.

This understanding of the “priesthood of believers,” according to McGrath, was the Protestant answer to the Roman Catholics charge that Protestants had no means of restraining false doctrine or immoral living in their midst. Perhaps, if Protestant churches really understood and practiced “the priesthood of all believers,” some of these present church leaders would be humbled and reminded what their true role and function in the congregation is supposed to be.

Amen! What a wonderful word for today! Thank you, Frank, for taking the time to write and encourage us as believers. Your words have really rung true and I am sure that there will be many who read these words who will also be pricked by God’s Spirit who can see the difference between true godly leadership and the politics of many churches today.